January 30, 2025
Truck transport
Trailer load distribution methods

Proper trailer load distribution affects not only vehicle stability and driving comfort but also helps avoid fines, cargo damage, and risks to other road users. This article outlines the basic rules and key aspects of distributing and arranging cargo on a trailer.
General rules
- Even weight distribution: The load should be arranged so that the weight is evenly distributed across the entire trailer surface. Uneven loading can lead to maneuvering difficulties and excessive wear on tires and suspension components.
- Avoid overloading axles: Each vehicle axle has a specific load limit, and exceeding this can result in fines or vehicle damage. Always check axle loads before starting your journey.
- Securing the cargo: Unsecured cargo can shift during transit, causing damage to goods or even accidents by altering the center of gravity. Use appropriate straps, anti-slip mats, locking bars, or safety nets.

Common mistakes in cargo arrangement
- Overloading the rear of the trailer: This arrangement puts excessive strain on the rear axle, reducing front-wheel traction and making steering more difficult.
- Overloading the front of the trailer: This may lead to overloading the drive axle and reduced vehicle stability.
- Improper cargo securing: Mistakes like using too few straps or lacking anti-slip mats can lead to cargo shifting during transport.
How to Arrange Cargo Correctly?
- Loading planning: Plan the cargo arrangement before loading, considering the weight, dimensions, and fragility of goods.
- Symmetrical placement: Ensure the cargo weight is evenly distributed on both sides of the vehicle’s centerline to avoid tilting.
- Heavier items at the bottom: Place the heaviest items as close to the floor as possible to lower the center of gravity and enhance stability.
- Loading order: Place items that will be unloaded first near the trailer doors to minimize rearranging other cargo.
- Using safety equipment: Use transport straps, protective corners, anti-slip mats, and other tools to ensure cargo stability during transport.
Trailer load distribution – calculator
The Goodloading planner can assist in arranging cargo on a trailer. The tool allows users to customize their trailer dimensions, load capacity, loading method, and other detailed parameters, such as axle loads, wheel arches, refrigeration units, or variofloor. After inputting loads manually or importing them from an Excel file, Goodloading optimally arranges them across the trailer surface and displays the results in a 3D visualization. Additional features include prioritizing floor placement or setting specific load capacity limits. The finalized project can be adjusted, manually moving loads on the visualization, and shared as a link or PDF file.
Using a cargo arrangement calculator not only saves time, particularly compared to traditional loading planning methods, but also helps avoid costly mistakes.