Key Takeaways
- Trailer compliance and safety require you to understand the distinction between Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). GAWR is the maximum weight rated per axle. GVWR is the total weight load the trailer is rated for.
- Worldwide, the most hazardous on-road problem is transporting overweight loads on trailers. Poor load balance can cause vehicles towing overloaded or improperly loaded trailers to lose control on ramps, have delayed brake response, and tip over.
- Understanding GVWR and GAWR is important because both help prevent weight problems. Fortunately, U.S. laws (based on FMCSA guidelines) have been put in place to ensure that weight is never a problem.
What is Trailer GVWR?
Although GVWR is attached to different classes of vehicles (i.e., trucks or trailers), its message remains consistent. In effect, GVWR relays two critical things:
- The base curb weight of the trailer at the time of manufacture, with all standard equipment included. The weight of all optional accessories of the truck and/or trailer (any item that is not included as part of the manufacturer’s standard).
- The second aspect of GVWR is essential since optional accessories may significantly increase the load. GVWR includes the weight of the operator and other passengers.
There is a formula for calculating GVWR. This is extremely useful when passengers and other optional fixtures are involved.
How to calculate GVWR?
GVWR= Trailer Capacity + Trailer Weight
Simply put, the trailer’s total weight-carrying capacity is the maximum load it can carry, while its weight is the combined weight of all its components.
Like many trailer weight factors, GVWR is rarely altered. The only exceptions to the alteration may be a recall of the trailer by its manufacturer, or a change by an authoritative body such as the DOT.
Must Read: Understanding Double Axle Trailer Weight Capacity for Maximum Payload
What is Trailer GAWR?
- GAWR (gross axle weight rating) is a term used for different types of vehicles, particularly those with two or more axles, such as multi-axle trailers.
- The trailer manufacturer specifies the GAWR and defines the maximum weight allowed on each axle. The gross axle weight for the two types of axles can differ.
- Like the GVWR, a trailer’s GAWR will not change unless the manufacturer recalls it or the DOT promulgates a new standard.
- If you are looking for a trailer’s GAWR, look for a placard inside the door frame. Here, you will find the GAWR and other important weight information, such as the GVWR.
GVWR and GAWR Difference
GVWR and GAWR differ in their definitions and how they use weight capacity.
In this case, GVWR measures a trailer’s weight and its standard equipment. By isolating other factors, like passengers and loads, we can understand a trailer’s limitations. In addition to the GVWR, one must also consider the weight of everything or everybody loaded into the trailer.
GAWR is different; it describes the maximum weight capacity of the axles. As noted already, on a certain trailer, the GAWR may differ depending on the axles and their positions.
The GAWR should not be confused with GAW, which is the gross axle weight and changes based on the amount of weight being added to or removed from the trailer. The GAW must always be less than or equal to the GAWR; therefore, the vehicle’s GAWR must be shown on the vehicle’s data plate along with the other data. To facilitate compliance with the GAW and GAWR, it is advisable to select a data plate made of a durable material, such as Metalphoto®, that keeps the GAWR, GVWR, and other important data visible throughout the life of the vehicle.
GVWR and GAWR both reflect weight, but they refer to different properties. GVWR is an overall measure of the trailer’s weight. GAWR reflects the maximum weight of a trailer in relation to its axles.
GVWR and GAWR are both immensely important for operators and fleet managers. To learn more about GVWR, GAWR, and the relevant regulations, check out the FMCSA manual.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between GVWR and GAWR?
GVWR stands for gross vehicle weight rating. The gross weight of the trailer plus its load. GAWR is gross axle wt. rating. This is the maximum weight the trailer’s axle(s) can carry.
2. Why is GVWR so important to trailer safety?
GVWR is important because it helps prevent overloading the trailer beyond the gross weight of the vehicle. Overloading impacts braking, handling and stability.
3. Can the GAWR be different at various axles?
Yes. In general, the weight carried by your trailer’s front axle can differ from that of the rear axle.
4. What is the distinction between GAW and GAWR?
GAW is the weight that is being carried or placed on an axle, whereas GAWR represents the maximum weight allowed. The GAW value must always stay under the specified GAWR.
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