Trailer GVWR vs. capacity
What the numbers on a trailer spec sheet mean, worked through with real TrailMax ratings.
Three numbers, one equation
GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is the most the trailer and everything on it can weigh together. Base trailer weight is what the empty trailer weighs. Distributed capacity is what you can load on it, spread across the deck.
Base weight plus capacity equals GVWR. The T-12-UT weighs 3,000 lbs and carries 13,100 lbs, for a 16,100 lb GVWR.
So capacity is the number to compare against your equipment, not GVWR. A machine that weighs 14,000 lbs is over the T-12-UT's capacity even though it is under its GVWR.
T-12-UT, full tilt
- Base trailer weight
- 3,000 lbs
- Distributed capacity
- 13,100 lbs
- GVWR
- 16,100 lbs
Why deck layout changes capacity
A stationary deck adds trailer weight. On the Utility Tilts, GVWR stays the same across deck layouts, so every added pound of trailer comes off capacity. On the TD-40-T and TD-42-T, the stationary deck version carries a higher GVWR, so capacity holds steady or rises slightly.
Each row below follows the same equation.
| Model | Base weight | Distributed capacity | GVWR |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-12-UT | 3,000 lbs | 13,100 lbs | 16,100 lbs |
| T-12-UT (4+16) | 3,470 lbs | 12,630 lbs | 16,100 lbs |
| T-12-UT (6+16) | 3,840 lbs | 12,260 lbs | 16,100 lbs |
| T-16-UT | 3,620 lbs | 14,780 lbs | 18,400 lbs |
| T-16-UT (4+16) | 4,140 lbs | 14,260 lbs | 18,400 lbs |
| T-16-UT (6+16) | 4,400 lbs | 14,000 lbs | 18,400 lbs |
| T-20-UT | 4,100 lbs | 18,900 lbs | 23,000 lbs |
| T-20-UT (4+16) | 4,500 lbs | 18,500 lbs | 23,000 lbs |
| T-20-UT (6+16) | 4,800 lbs | 18,200 lbs | 23,000 lbs |
| TD-40-T | 8,820 lbs | 37,980 lbs | 46,800 lbs |
| TD-40-T (5+24) | 10,620 lbs | 37,980 lbs | 48,600 lbs |
| TD-42-T | 9,600 lbs | 41,200 lbs | 50,800 lbs |
| TD-42-T (5+24) | 11,250 lbs | 41,350 lbs | 52,600 lbs |
| TRD-54-T | 12,560 lbs | 54,420 lbs | 66,980 lbs |
| FWTRD-70-T | 16,200 lbs | 67,800 lbs | 84,000 lbs |
How much should you actually load?
TrailMax recommends averaging 75 to 80% of a trailer's rated capacity. The rating covers the structure, running gear, and hitch, and running below it leaves margin for uneven terrain and keeps undue stress off those components.
Where the weight sits
Keep at least 60% of the load forward of the center line of the axles. Too much weight behind the axles takes weight off the hitch and makes the trailer unstable to tow.
Frequently asked questions
Is GVWR the same as payload?
No. Payload, which TrailMax lists as distributed capacity, is what you can load. GVWR is payload plus the weight of the trailer itself.
Why does TrailMax list capacity as distributed?
The rating assumes the load is spread across the deck. Concentrated loads and rough ground are part of why TrailMax recommends staying around 75 to 80% of the rating.
Does my tow vehicle need to be rated for the GVWR?
Your truck and hitch need to be rated for the loaded trailer you are pulling. Check your tow vehicle's ratings, and ask your dealer if you are unsure.