Planning tool, not certification. Use ratings and limits for the exact vehicle, trailer, tires, hitch and route. A calculator can compare numbers you enter; it cannot determine every safety or legal requirement.

The four numbers to watch

A typical tractor-trailer scale ticket gives steer axle, drive axle, trailer axle and gross weight. Each is useful for a different adjustment decision.

Steer axle

Steer weight is affected by tractor loading and fifth-wheel position. Compare it with the ratings and limits that apply to the specific vehicle and route.

Drive and trailer axles

Cargo position and tandem position affect how weight is shared between the drive and trailer axle groups. Sliding tandems redistributes between those groups.

Gross weight

Gross is the sum of the axle groups. Sliding a tandem or fifth wheel redistributes weight but does not reduce gross.

Save before-and-after tickets

Keeping scale tickets tied to a tractor and trailer makes it easier to learn how that equipment responds to adjustments and to compare repeat loads.

Put the numbers to work.

Open the related TowAtlas calculator and use your saved Garage setup when available.

Open Commercial CAT Scale Tool