How to Determine Trailers Load Carrying Capacity

Published 04/14/2016

Question:

Just bought a pj trailor with double axles, they are rated for 7000 lbs? Does this mean I am able to haul 10000lbs. Safely if the bed is 4000lbs?

asked by: Fred

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you check up near the coupler on the trailer there will be a plate that has the VIN and other information listed. On that plate there will also be the capacities of the trailer. The axle capacities and overall capacities will be listed here.

Just based off the info you listed it sounds like you have 14,000 lbs of axle capacity. Since there are other capacities you need to consider like tires, brakes, coupler, etc this does not necessarily mean you have a trailer capable of towing 14k total.

expert reply by: Jameson C