Trailer Weight
Distribution Calculator
Estimate axle weights before you load or dispatch — in lbs or kg. See how your freight distributes across steer, drive, and trailer axles and compare it against Canadian or US axle limits.
Switching units reinterprets the entered numbers in the new unit — re-check your values.
Canada — federal / common provincial baseline
Typical axle-group limits — Canada
These are typical regulatory limits used for planning. Actual limits vary by province/state, configuration, and permits — verify with the jurisdiction.
| Axle group | Limit (lbs) | Limit (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Steer axle | 12,125 lbs | 5,500 kg |
| Single axle | 20,062 lbs | 9,100 kg |
| Tandem axle group | 37,479 lbs | 17,000 kg |
| Gross vehicle weight | 87,082 lbs | 39,500 kg |
Typical single-trailer baseline. Each province sets its own limits and seasonal (spring) weight restrictions; B-trains, permit loads, and special configurations differ. Verify current limits with the provincial highway authority.
Pallets 1–8 (nose)
Pallets 9–18 (mid)
Pallets 19–26 (tail)
Canada Axle Weight Limits Reference
Typical single-trailer configuration
| Steer axle | 5,500 kg | 12,125 lbs |
| Single axle | 9,100 kg | 20,062 lbs |
| Tandem axle group | 17,000 kg | 37,479 lbs |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | 39,500 kg | 87,082 lbs |
Weight distribution tips
- •Load heaviest freight directly over or just forward of the drive axles
- •Keep weight balanced left-to-right — side-to-side imbalance > 500 lbs (≈ 227 kg) causes handling issues
- •Sliding the trailer axle rearward moves weight forward (increases drive, reduces trailer)
- •Overweight steer axle: shift cargo rearward; overweight trailer: slide axle rearward or shift cargo forward
- •Limits vary by province/state — AB, SK, BC and many US states have seasonal (spring) weight restrictions
Typical single-trailer baseline. Each province sets its own limits and seasonal (spring) weight restrictions; B-trains, permit loads, and special configurations differ. Verify current limits with the provincial highway authority. This tool provides planning estimates only and does not certify legal compliance.
Shipping heavy freight on a flat deck?
OTR Logistics Solutions brokers flat deck and step deck freight across Canada and the US -- machinery, steel coils, lumber, and metal products on open-deck equipment.
About this tool
What it calculates
Estimates steer, drive, and trailer axle weights based on load position (front, mid, and rear zone distribution) and calculates whether any axle group exceeds federal or provincial limits.
Who it's for
Carriers and drivers loading a flatbed, reefer, or dry van who need to verify axle compliance before departure.
What you'll need
Total load weight, cab-to-axle distance, load centre of gravity zone allocation (% front / mid / rear), and applicable jurisdiction weight limits.
How to use the result
Use before loading to plan cargo placement. If an axle exceeds its limit, shift weight rearward or forward as shown by the calculator. Confirm with a certified scale before operating on highway.
Key assumptions
Calculation uses simplified static weight distribution. Actual dynamic axle weights depend on vehicle suspension, pavement grade, and load shift in transit. Provincial and bridge formula limits vary.
When to confirm with a specialist
For overweight permit loads or loads near the limit on a given axle, consult your carrier's compliance officer and obtain a certified scale ticket before departure.
Need help with this shipment?
OTR Logistics Solutions specialists available 24/7 — no account required.