Tractor Trailer Weight Distribution Calculator

Weight Distribution Calculator

ComponentWeight Distribution ConsiderationsTypical Weight Range
Total Vehicle WeightTotal weight of the tractor and trailer combined, including the cargo.80,000 lbs (maximum legal limit in the U.S.)
Tractor WeightWeight of the tractor unit alone without any trailers.15,000 – 25,000 lbs
Trailer WeightWeight of the trailer unit alone without cargo.10,000 – 15,000 lbs
Cargo WeightWeight of the goods being transported.Varies based on load
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)The maximum allowable total weight of the tractor-trailer including cargo, passengers, and fuel.80,000 lbs (varies by country and vehicle type)
Axle WeightWeight distributed over each axle, critical for maintaining legal and safe load distribution.Front Axle: 12,000 lbs, Rear Axles: 34,000 lbs combined
Kingpin WeightThe portion of the trailer’s weight that is transferred to the tractor via the kingpin.20-25% of trailer weight
Tandem Axle WeightWeight distributed over the tandem axles, ensuring balance and avoiding overloading of individual axles.34,000 lbs (combined limit)
Bridge Formula WeightFederal regulation ensuring weight is properly distributed over the length of the vehicle to prevent bridge stress.Formula: W = 500((LN/N-1) + 12N + 36)

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