Home | Resources | Trailer Terms
Common Trailer Terms
Here are some commonly used trailer terms with definitions. If you need more assistance, contact
your Haulmark Dealer,
email us or call us at 800-348-7530.
- Trailer designed for hauling "adventure" vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and snowmobiles.
- Trailer designed for hauling all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Also called an "adventure" trailer.
- Trailer designed for transporting automobiles, including antique cars, classic cars and race cars. See "Show car trailer," "Race car trailer" and "Stacker."
- The weight of the vehicle, including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment.
- Trailer that connects to a ball hitch that's attached to the tow vehicle's frame or bumper. Also called "tag hitch" trailer.
- Trailer designed for transporting automobiles, including antique cars, classic cars and racecars. See "Show car trailer," "Race car trailer" and "Stacker."
- Same as "General cargo trailer."
- The weight of the vehicle, including all passengers and cargo, minus the base curb weight.
- The side of the trailer equivalent to the passenger side of a vehicle in the United States.
- A trailer designed for hauling cargo. The category includes small trailers for occasional use through large, heavy-duty trailers for commercial applications.
- Trailer that attaches to a ball in the bed of a pickup or semitrailer.
- The GAW is the total weight placed on an axle on the vehicle or trailer. The GAWR is the maximum allowable weight to be carried by a single axle. The total load on each axle must never exceed its GAWR.
- The GCW is the actual weight of the loaded tow vehicle plus the actual weight of the loaded trailer. The GCWR is the maximum allowable total weight of the loaded vehicle and loaded trailer. The GCW must never exceed the GCWR.
- The GVW is the base curb weight plus the cargo weight. The GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle, including passengers and cargo. The GVW must never exceed the GVWR.
- Trailer design and construction used by Haulmark in which the right engineering principles, components and construction techniques are integrated to build superior-performing trailers.
- Trailer that has an area appointed with living accommodations, including bed, dinette, kitchenette and bathroom.
- Door and window openings in Haulmark trailers are framed with metal instead of wood for improved strength. Some manufacturers use wood, which is not as sturdy and can rot.
- Used in Haulmark trailers, metal recessed steps provide maximum durability and won't rot like wooden steps.
- Specialty motorcycle trailers designed solely for hauling motorcycles, or cargo trailers specially equipped to transport motorcycles.
- Trailer designed to haul automobiles, parts and accessories for motor sports competitions (see "Stacker").
- The maximum allowable weight of cargo and passengers that the vehicle is designed to carry.
- Trailer designed to haul automobiles, parts and accessories for motorsports competitions (see "Stacker").
- A coating applied to Haulmark steel trailers to help prevent corrosion, especially in salty environments.
- Single sheet of aluminum used in some Haulmark trailers to help prevent leaks and provide years of trouble-free service.
- Trailer designed to transport antique cars, classic cars and other types of show cars.
- Trailer designed for hauling snowmobiles. Also called an Adventure trailer.
- Trailer specially designed for uses such as vending, concessions, job-site office and storage, landscaping and tailgating.
- Race car trailer in which cars are loaded, "stacked," on two levels, usually via ramps. Some stackers transport up to three cars and have room for work area, parts and living quarters.
- The side of the trailer equivalent to the driver's side of a vehicle in the United States.
- Trailer that connects to a ball that's attached to the tow vehicle's frame or bumper. Also called "bumper hitch" trailer.
- Used in trucks and automobiles and also in all the door and window hinges in Haulmark trailers, tamper-resistant fasteners make it difficult for intruders to break into Haulmark trailers.
- The amount of the trailer's weight that is transferred to the tow vehicle through the trailer tongue or gooseneck.
- Screws in Haulmark trailers are triple coated so they won't rust, will lasting longer and will retain their good looks for years to come. Manufacturers establish the ratings for their products based on component strength. Exceeding the manufacturer's limits is a potential safety risk.