Improper trailer loading causes many accidents and deaths. To safely load a trailer, you must consider: 111 �� Overall load weight; �� Load weight distribution; �� Proper tongue weight; and �� Securing the load properly. To determine that you have loaded the trailer within its rating, you must consider the distribution of weight, as well as the total weight of the trailer and its contents. The trailer axles carry most of the total weight of the trailer and its contents (Gross Vehicle Weight, or “GVW”). The remainder of the total weight is carried by the tow vehicle hitch. It is essential for safe towing that the trailer tongue and tow vehicle hitch carry the proper amount of the loaded trailer weight, otherwise the trailer can develop an undesirable sway at towing speeds, or the rear of the towing vehicle can be overloaded. Read the “Tongue Weight” section below. The load distribution must be such that no component part of the trailer is loaded beyond its rating. This means that you must consider the rating of the tires, wheels and axles. For tandem and triple axle trailers, you must make sure that the front-torear load distribution does not result in overloading any axle. Towing stability also depends on keeping the center of gravity as low as possible. Load heavy items on the floor and over the axles. When loading additional items, be sure to maintain even side-to-side weight distribution and proper tongue weight. The total weight of the trailer and its contents must never exceed the total weight rating of the trailer (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, or “GVWR”). ! WARNING An overloaded trailer can result in loss of control of the trailer, leading to death or serious injury. Do not exceed the trailer Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or an axle Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Do not load a trailer so that the weight on any tire exceeds its rating. 6 LOADING AND UNLOADING A FLATBED TRAILER
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