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Quick tips for properly distributing weight in your RV
Proper loading and weight distribution makes a big difference.
Proper RV loading and weight distribution is critical to your safety and driving pleasure. Be sure to evenly distribute cargo from side to side and front to back. Whenever possible, weigh your unit prior to each trip to assure proper weight balance. Your owner's manual will give you complete details for your specific type of RV. Here are some general tips:
Loading
Placement
Heavy items should be stored as centrally as possible, on or near the floor, and should be secured with nets or bungee cords so they can not move during travel.
Interior Drawers
Do not overload large drawers with heavy pots and pans; this can cause drawer guides to bend. Instead, distribute these items evenly in drawers and use lightweight items such as paper goods or towels as filler.
Overhead Cabinets
Only lightweight items should be stored in overhead cabinets.
Seating
Be sure your passengers sit in seats that are designed for occupancy during transit. Be sure to buckle-up! Do not allow people to sit in seats tagged "not for occupancy while vehicle is in motion."
Plan Ahead
Be sure to leave space and weight allowance for souvenirs you may purchase during your travels.
Fuel Economy
A properly loaded RV helps conserve fuel and prevents excessive wear on your chassis or tow vehicle.
Weighing Your Unit
After your unit is properly loaded, have it weighed before every trip (if possible) for maximum safety and drivability. You can do this at a grain elevator, sand or gravel dealer or government weighing station. There may be a small fee for this service. Check your yellow pages for the location nearest you.
Always refer to your owner's manual for complete information on proper loading and weighing procedures.
General Information
Fifth Wheels
The pin box weight is not included when considering axle weights. Remember that 20-30% of your fifth wheel's overall weight is Hitch Weight carried by the tow vehicle.
Travel Trailers
The hitch typically carries 10-15% of the weight of a travel trailer.
Motorhomes
If you tow a vehicle with your motorhome and that vehicle weighs more than 2,500 pounds, it should have a braking system that is independent from your motorhome's braking system.
Weight Definitions
Travel Trailer/Fifth Wheels
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum permissible weight of the trailer/fifth-wheel when separated from the tow vehicle.
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight) is the total weight of the trailer/fifth-wheel as manufactured at the factory when separated from the tow vehicle. If applicable, it includes full generator fuel, oil and coolants.
CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity) is equal to GVWR minus each of the following: UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight (including water heater), and full LP gas weight. Dealer installed equipment will reduce Cargo Carrying Capacity.
Motorhomes
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum permissible weight of a fully loaded motorhome.
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight) is the weight of a motorhome as manufactured at the factory with full fuel, engine oil and coolants.
CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity) is equal to GVWR minus each of the following: UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight (including water heater), full LP gas weight and SCWR. Dealer installed equipment and towed vehicle tongue weight will reduce Cargo Carrying Capacity.
SCWR (Sleeping Capacity Weight Rating) is the manufacturer's designated number of sleeping positions multiplied by 154 pounds (70 kilograms).
Note: Water weighs 8.3 pounds (3,8 kilograms) per gallon. LP gas weighs 4.5 pounds (2 kilograms) per gallon.
PLEASE CONSULT YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL FOR SPECIFIC WEIGHING INSTRUCTIONS AND TOWING GUIDELINES.
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