How Much Does a Boat Trailer Weigh? | Futura Trailers

Transporting your boat safely and efficiently means having the right trailer for the right boat. Your trailer should be able to support your boat's weight while remaining light enough for your towing vehicle.

It’s important to remember that government regulations limit the maximum weight you can tow.

For example, in New Zealand, a basic full driver's licence allows you to tow up to 6,000 kg (this includes the combined weight of your vehicle, trailer and boat).

When you consider that utes in New Zealand usually weigh between 1800 kg - 2300 kg, it’s not out of the question that with a fully loaded car, trailer and boat, you could come close to exceeding the maximum legal towing limit.

Overloading is not only dangerous, but makes you liable for fines, which could also void your insurance coverage in case of an accident.

So with this in mind, it’s important to know how much your boat weighs in addition to your boat trailer.In this article, we’ll look at how to figure out how much a boat trailer weighs, covering typical boat trailer sizes and the boats that accompany them.

How Much Does a Boat Trailer Weigh?

The specific weight of a trailer depends on the manufacturer, and even if two trailers are suitable for the same type of boat, they may vary in weight.

Therefore, the easiest way to know how much a trailer is, is to check with the manufacturer or read the rating plate on the trailer.

Alternatively, you can estimate the weight of your trailer based on the type of boat it can carry or its number of axles.

By Boat Type

A typical boat trailer could weigh between 45 kg and 2000 kg.

A trailer designed to transport large, heavy boats will have a stronger and heavier frame.

Here’s a list detailing the typical ranges of trailer weights based on boat size:

Canoe/Kayak/Paddle Boat: 45 kg – 180 kg

Jet Ski: 45 kg – 240 kg

Fishing Boat: 90 kg – 500 kg

Large Boat: 500 kg – 2000 kg

Note: The material of a boat will affect its weight, reducing the accuracy of this list.

For example, a 12 ft fibreglass boat weighs between 170 kg – 200 kg. Meanwhile, an aluminium boat of the same size could weigh 54 kg – 90 kg.

By Axle

Another way to estimate the weight of your boat trailer is to consider the number of axles. Your trailer could have a single, double, or triple axle.

Single Axle (Canoe): 90 kg – 180 kg

Single Axle (Bass Boat): 160 kg – 220 kg

Single Axle (Fishing Boat): 2200 kg – 270 kg

Tandem Axle (Large Boat): 360 kg – 450 kg

Triple Axle (Large Boat): 590 kg – 720 kg

Therefore, if you want a trailer for a 14 ft fibreglass boat that weighs around 100 kg, you would only need a small single axle trailer.

How to Measure Your Trailer Weight

If you want to measure the exact weight of your trailer, you will need to either take it to a weigh station or calculate it yourself.

The most publicly accessible measuring facilities in New Zealand are your local refuse transfer station.

If your trailer's Tare Weight isn’t listed, you’re able to calculate it (if you know the GVWR and Load Capacity).

You can use a simple equation to calculate this:

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) - Load Capacity = Tare Weight.

For example, if your trailer has a Load Capacity of 680 kg and a GVWR of 820 kg, then your Tare Weight is: 820 - 680 = 140 kg.

The Future of Lightweight Boat Trailers

In an industry first, Futura Trailers designed boat trailers made with high-quality anodised aluminium and weld-free construction to make for the ultimate lightweight and durable design.

Futura Trailers have boat trailer models for all kinds of boat sizes and types, so you can easily find the right one for your needs.

The lightweight construction of the trailer makes manoeuvring and towing your trailer a breeze, you’ll save on fuel and you’ll have an easier time staying within weight limits for your boat + trailer package (and avoiding any fines or insurance problems).

When comparing Futura boat trailers to their equivalent steel galvanised trailers, Futura trailers are up to 30% lighter when comparing it to a trailer with the same length and load capacity.

Bonus: You can carry some extra gear in your boat with the weight you’re saving on your trailer.

Added bonus: You’ll have one of the coolest, futuristic looking trailers on the road.

The Bottom Line

Now you’ve learnt some quick ways how to calculate a boat trailer weighs, like by subtracting the Load Capacity from the GVWR.

If you don’t know the weight of a trailer and you don’t have a weigh bridge available or GVWR or Load Capacity listed from the manufacturer, you can refer to the ranges above to find out the typical range of trailer weights, based on the boats they carry or their number of axles.

If you’re a discerning kiwi boat enthusiast, you should consider checking out the trailers from a trusted brand such as Futura Trailers, known for innovation in both the boat trailer and car trailer industry.

Choosing the right trailer for you will ensure safe towing and peace of mind on your boating adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a typical fishing boat weigh?

In New Zealand, hardtop boats are the most popular and are typically between 4.5 - 7.5 metres long and weigh between 900 kg and 1100 kg.

This range is broad because of many factors, from the engine to the build material. You should always check the exact weight with the manufacturer (and don’t forget the engine too).

How much does a double axle boat trailer weigh?

A double axle boat trailer typically weighs around 360 kg - 450 kg. This weight can vary due to the materials used, and its design. Ultimately, its exact weight will depend on the specific model.