Trailer Data Plate

• 1). Locate the data plate on your utility trailer. It is typically riveted to the tongue or somewhere on the frame.
  
  
• 2). Record the trailer's axle weight rating from the data plate. This will be listed under "Axle Capacity."
  
  
• 3). Weigh the cargo you plan to load on the trailer, using a scale. Make certain you don't exceed the trailer's maximum load capacity as determined in the preceding step.
  
  

Axle Diameter

• 1). Measure the diameter of the utility trailer's axle with a measuring tape.
  
  
• 2). Find your measurement in the following table of typical axle diameters:
  
  1.5-inch diameter, 1,000 pounds
  
  1.75-inch diameter, 2,000 pounds
  
  2.375-inch diameter, 3,500 pounds
  
  3-inch diameter, 6,000 pounds
  
  3.5-inch diameter, 8,000 pounds
  
  4-inch diameter, 9,000 pounds
  
  5-inch diameter, 10,000 pounds
  
  
• 3). Multiply the axle capacity in Step 2 by the number of axles to get the maximum load capacity for your utility trailer.