Many states have weight limits to keep the operator under commercial licensing requirements. Typically this is total weight including towing vehicle, trailer, and total load (including everything in the tow vehicle and towed trailer). Pros and cons to this process from the individual, but short term it is the law if your state had it in place. You need to know the laws as they apply to you in what every state you may be pulling a trailer.
Also learn what is required for securing your load! Your total weight not your license rated weight will be a big factor on what rules you are judged by during a traffic stop. In an accident, following DOT guidelines is your best protection.
This post is worth reading twice. I have a 14k tilt Ezloader Doolittle equipment trailer trailer. I tow it with my tractor loaded and I am usually very close to the GCVR. Often, I stop by a Cat scale to make sure I am not over GVWR. I am not concerned about being stopped and caught. HOWEVER, I would really be concerned if involved in an accident and got a ticket for overweight. I doubt if the insurance would pay at that point.
Things you may want to consider on a new trailer:
A Setback Jack - Not placed at the Y just behind the coupler. It is back 3 or 4' mounted on the trailer frame. Can get with top crank or side crank.
LED Lighting - Or, you can add led markers and tail lights like Optronics Glow lights.
EZ Lube Axles - grease bearings without removing tires.
If you get tandem (7K or 14K), some states require brakes on all four, not just 2 wheels. Missouri requires all four.
Hinged ramps or removable slide under ramps.
Height adjustable coupler or welded on frame coupler.
A tilt bed trailer is handy, but it can double the weight of the trailer and can cost almost twice as much. My 14K is well built but is essentially two frames and weighs 3700 pounds. Grately increases you vehicle tow weight load.
Good luck Larry
