How Much Weight Can You Put in a Box Trailer?

If you are considering buying a box trailer in Maryland, Delaware, or Pennsylvania, you likely want to ensure that you are getting the right size for your needs. When it comes to boxing trailers, there are typically two types—small, enclosed trailers and large enclosed trailers—and each one comes with its own weight limitations.

The empty weight for small, enclosed trailers usually spans from 400 to 1,800 pounds, with the average being around 1,000 pounds. The amount of weight this trailer can hold is generally determined by the materials used to construct the trailer itself and the number of axles. Smaller utility trailers can be rated for up to 7,000 pounds when fully loaded. However, for box trailers that are 12' long or less, the average cargo load capacity is typically around 2,200 pounds.

Large enclosed cargo trailers—those that are 12' or longer—typically weigh about 2,700 pounds when empty. You can find some heavy-duty models that weigh up to 5,200 pounds and some smaller ones that weigh as little as 900 pounds. Like their smaller siblings, the capacity of large, enclosed utility trailers depends on the frame's construction, the number of axles, and other related factors. Generally, you can expect these larger trailers to carry up to 4,400 pounds of cargo.  

Smaller trailers might only be able to carry up to 3,000 pounds, while longer units are rated as high as 10,000 pounds.