Re: Check out this towing thread
Okay guys, here are some things that you need to know about trailering legally in the 48 states. Do check the laws in your state also.
Trailer GVWR (on the data plate for the trailer) over 10,000 lbs. requires the driver to have a CDL and the trailer must have commercial tags, no exceptions, all states. Most open tandem axle trailers will be under 10,000 lbs unless they are 6 lug axles. Enclosed car haulers are the ones that usually go over the limit.
"Not for Hire" must be visible on both sides of the trailer and tow vehicle.
Towing with an RV does not exclude you from the two rules above and adds some things into the mix. Check with your trailer dealer or RV place before towing.
If your business name appears on the side of the tow vehicle or trailer then you are susceptible to having to buy fuel permits or have an IFA endorsement.
If anything you are hauling is being vendored (swap meet parts, new parts, merchandise such as t-shirts, tools, etc.) you must have your state commercial tags plus fuel permits for the states you will be traveling through.
Make sure that the GVWR of the trailer is not more than the GVWR of the tow vehicle as that will get you busted for "overloaded" whether the trailer is empty or not. Usually the maximum trailer weight is the GAWR frt + GAWR rear = max trailer weight.
My 2001 1500 4wd Suburban with the 5300 Vortec has a GVWR of 7200 lbs. The max trailer weight is 7600 lbs. (3600 lbs. front and 4000 lbs. rear on each axle on the truck) with a GCWR of 13,000 lbs with the 3.73 axles. This can be obtained through Chevrolet or it is in the owners manual. Also check your tire manufacturers weight ratings, factory sizes should be okay, but smaller tires will change your GVWR as will larger ones.
One note when traveling to Florida with a "goose neck" trailer, you must have a "5th wheel" or you will be cited. They have outlawed all "goose neck" trailers that are hitched to a ball whether it is mounted in the bed of the truck or on a hitch.
I hope this helps and if you are unsure whether you are towing legally or not, check with a local trailer sales place or Peterbuilt, KW, Freightliner, or GMC dealer as they know them the best......................RatPack............
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