Re: USDOT regulations for towing your trailers

Posted by Matt Clark on May 06, 2003 at 11:33:24 from (12.30.136.108):

In Reply to: USDOT regulations for towing your trailers posted by Dave on May 01, 2003 at 07:19:54:

Dave & all:
You guys don't know me from Adam, so take this any way you want it, but I work with DOT rules every day. Your source was close to correct (or you lost track of a few details). That 10,000 pounds doesn't actually refer to the total "weight" of the truck/trailer/load, but to the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating). In other words, the weight at which the combo is licensed. For example, looking at the plate on the driver's door of the truck, it will probably list 4500 lbs, or some such number under GVWR (for a 1/2 ton truck) or maybe more. The trailer tag should also list a GVWR. Double axle, fairly heavy, probably something like 10,000 lbs. These weights refer to weight of each respective unit, with a max. load on. Go over either one and look out if you get stopped...

That being said, the 10k weight is dead on for travel across state lines. Above that and you need a CDL (commercial driver's license). If you stay within your home state, that number increases to 25,000 lbs. SO...

Situation 1. I never leave Iowa, and drive my own truck/trailer or dump truck or whatever, and only for myself, and it's GVWR is 24,999 lbs, and I don't need a CDL or DOT registration.

Situation 2. I cross state lines, and drive my own...and it's GVWR is 9999 lbs, and I don't need...

For what it's worth...insurance company rules (which I also deal with daily) are an entirely different animal and one you should also check in to to be sure you're covered.

My 2 cents worth...Matt Clark

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