Truck and Trailer Weight Load Calculator
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing key information about truck and trailer weight loads:
| Vehicle Type | Max Weight (Tonnes) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| HGV Class 1 | 44 | Articulated lorries with detachable cabs and trailers |
| HGV Class 2 | 30 | Rigid lorries with attached cab and trailer |
| Artic Lorry | 44 | Articulated lorries for various uses |
| 53-foot refrigerated trailer | 45 | Common type for refrigerated goods4 |
| 53-foot dry van trailer | 46 | Used for dry goods transport4 |
| 53-foot flatbed trailer | 48 | Open surface for different cargos4 |
| Unbraked trailer | 0.75 | Max weight is 750kg or half towing vehicle’s kerb weight8 |
| Trailer on overrun brakes | 3.5 | Trailers equipped with overrun brakes8 |
Additional Weight Considerations
- Federal Gross Vehicle Weight Limit: 80,000 pounds (36.3 tonnes) on interstate highways49
- Single-Axle Weight Limit: 20,000 pounds (9.1 tonnes)9
- Tandem-Axle Weight Limit: 34,000 pounds (15.4 tonnes)9
- Maximum Trailer Width: 2.55 meters1
- Maximum Trailer Length: 7 meters for vehicles with MAM ≤ 3,500kg; 12 meters for vehicles with MAM > 3,500kg1
Important Terms
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): Actual weight of the fully loaded vehicle5
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Maximum weight limit set by the manufacturer5
- Gross Combination Weight (GCW): Total combined weight of fully-laden truck and trailer7
- Payload: Extra weight a vehicle can carry beyond its unladen weight7
Weight Distribution
- Freight weight must be evenly distributed across the truck’s axles4
- Tongue weight (part of trailer attached to hitch) is included in the vehicle’s GVW5
Compliance and Safety
- Exceeding weight limits can result in safety issues, including reduced braking efficiency and steering control5
- Overloading can lead to increased road wear and tear3
- Weight limits may vary by state and road type49
Remember to always check specific regulations for your location and vehicle type, as weight limits can vary depending on factors such as the number of axles, suspension type, and intended use of the vehicle.