What Are Trailer Tire Load Range Ratings And How Do They Compare To Weight Capacity
Updated 12/22/2025 | Published 10/15/2024
Question:
Where can I find the meaning or weight capacity for the different load ratings. E C and so on
asked by: Ray
Expert Reply:
Hey Ray,
Load range is just the another way of saying the ply rating. Back in the day the amount of plies equated to a certain amount of capacity. The more you had the higher the capacity would be. Now that technology has advanced there's stronger materials used for the plies so less are needed to meet the same capacity rating.
There unfortunately isn't a great chart to show the exact capacities tied to these ranges because there are other characteristics that can affect a specific tire's capacity. Going with too high of a capacity/load range can make the tires too stiff and not allow them to compress enough for even tire wear. You'll start to see the middle of the tire tread wearing out way quicker than the rest of the tread.
Are you trying to just replace your current tires or are you wanting go up in capacity for a little bit better support?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Steel Trailer Wheel - 10" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - White
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Wheel Only
- 10 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Americana
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: How to Bypass the Factory Brake Controller w/a Bad Module on a 2014 Chevy Silverado 2500
- Article: Aftermarket Brake Control Wiring for 07-13 GM Full-Size Truck with Factory-Integrated Brake Control
- Q&A: Replacement Bearings and Seals for Lippert 4,400 Lb Axle
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Q&A: Recommended Replacement Seal For A Tri Tec T-23972 Seal
- Q&A: Are the Spring Returns of Bulldog Jacks Repairable if the Spring Return Function Stops Working
- Q&A: Upgrading 20.5x8-10 Tires on Pontoon Boat Trailer to Higher Load Capacity Tires
- Q&A: Why Won't 7-Way Connector on Trailer Fit Factory 7-Way on My New Silverado
- Q&A: Dimensions of the Replacement Screw and Nut Kit for 12000-lb Capacity Bulldog Jacks
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Article: How to Install a Brake Controller on Chevrolet / GMC 1999-2006 Pickups
- Article: Printable Trailer Bolt Hole Pattern Template
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Trailer Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Making the Decision
Kate F.
12/22/2025
Hey Ray, what did you end up deciding on for your tire load range? Knowing how the capacity worked out could really help others trying to match their tires to their trailer wheels.