How to Find the Weight Capacity of a Triple Axle Trailer

Published 09/21/2017

Question:

Hello. how can i tell the weight capacity my tri axle trailer? It has no tag on it.

asked by: Jimmy

Expert Reply:

You can get an approximate weight capacity rating for your trailer by checking out the axles themselves. You should be able to find a weight rating stamp on the axle somewhere (typically found in the middle).

Sometimes a weight capacity rating will be stamped on the trailer frame as well as a sticker so if you cannot find a sticker you can check for any places where it might have been stamped. You could also measure the diameter of the axle and compare it with this list of standard weight capacities and axle sizes:

- 1,000-lb - 2,000-lb Axles: 1-1/2 inch - 1-3/4 inch diameter
- 3,500-lb Axles: 2-3/8 inch diameter
- 5,200-lb - 7,200-lb Axles: 3 inch diameter
- 8,000-lb Axles: 3-1/2 inch diameter
- 9,000-lb Axles: 4 inch diameter
- 10,000-lb Or more axles: 5 inch diameter

You likely have axles with a 3 inch diameter so you may simply want to contact the manufacturer of your trailer to see what they have it rated at since there is a range of ratings for that size. Typically a trailer is rated slightly higher than the axles since the tow vehicle will be taking some of the weight via the tongue or pin weight, but it is always best to know what your weight capacity is exactly so that you don't exceed it.

I have attached a picture of a sample Trailer VIN that you can use as a reference if you cannot find any info about the manufacturer on your trailer. You should be able to locate who the manufacturer is by searching the first 3 digits of your VIN.