How to Distribute Cargo Evenly in Your Utility Trailer

Towing a utility trailer is not too difficult, but there are some things you have to keep in mind to have a safe experience. Even distribution of cargo in your trailer is crucial to prevent trailer sway and wear and tear on your trailer and towing vehicle. Here’s what you need to know.

Understand Your Vehicle’s Towing Limits

Both your towing vehicle and your utility trailer have weight limits that you cannot exceed. Review these limits by either looking up your vehicle model online or reading your owner’s manual to learn the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) which is your upper limit for what you can carry. You can weigh your trailer at a highway weigh station if you’re unsure.

Balance Your Cargo Weight

When loading your utility trailer with cargo, be careful that you aren’t overburdening one side or the other. Placing too much weight on the left or right side can cause a tire blowout, which is particularly dangerous when you’re driving and towing. 

Keep cargo weight balanced from left to right in your utility trailer, and use tie-downs or ropes to secure your cargo in place so that it doesn’t shift around in transit. Also, you should try to place about 60% of the cargo weight towards the hitch of your trailer and 40% of the weight towards the rear of the trailer for the best towing results.

Stop by our location in Oklahoma City, OK, to check out our selection of utility trailers for sale. 405-Tractor offers financing and trade-in options to all our customers.