BEAVERTAIL

A slight incline built into the rear of a trailer, designed to ease the angles associated with loading equipment.

DECKOVER TRAILER

A "Deckover" trailer is a trailer that is designed such that the entire deck of the trailer is situated above the wheels, eliminating the need for protruding fenders and thus maximizing the usable area of the trailer.

GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING (GAWR)

The maximum allowable weight that each axle assembly is designed to carry, as measured at the tires. It includes the weight of the axle assembly itself. GAWR is established by considering the rating of each of its components (tires, wheels, springs, axle), and rating the axle on its weakest link. The GAWR assumes a load that is equal on each side.

GROSS COMBINED WEIGHT RATING (GCWR)

The maximum allowable weight of the tow vehicle and the attached towed vehicle. GCWR assumes that both vehicles have functioning brakes, with exceptions in some cases for very light towed vehicles, normally less than 1,500 pounds. (Check your chassis manual or towing guide.)

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR)

The maximum allowable weight of a fully loaded vehicle, including liquids, passengers, cargo, and the tongue weight of any towed vehicle.

PAN TRAILER

A "Pan" trailer is a trailer designed such that the perimeter of the trailer deck is surrounded by a sturdy lip. This lip is designed to keep gear secure and prevent slide offs.

TONGUE WEIGHT

The amount of the trailer's weight that is transferred to the tow vehicle through the trailer tongue or gooseneck.