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Air Brake Trailer In Stock Now

Air Brake Trailer FAQ'S

If your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) exceeds 3000 pounds, it will need an annual inspection. To avoid the need for brakes and a yearly inspection, manufacturers purposefully rate most single-axle trailers at 2990 pounds, even though their axles are rated for 3500 pounds. 

If you purchase a single-axle trailer equipped with brakes, you can opt for a GVWR of either 2990 or 3500 pounds. Trailers are inspected at most auto inspection facilities. Trailers that exceed a GVWR of 10,000 pounds must be inspected by a mechanic certified with “Code 3” credentials. Find a detailed description of the Pennsylvania trailer inspection code here.

We issue you a 60-day Pennsylvania temporary tag that allows you to tow your trailer home and use it for a short period of time until you can get a tag from your DMV. We provide all the paperwork your DMV will need to register the trailer in your home state.

Paperwork includes the Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) for new trailers, title for used or previously titled trailers, and a Bill of Sale. This paperwork is your only proof of ownership before registering the trailer in your home state. Take care not to misplace it.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) refers to the total weight capacity of a trailer, including the empty weight of the trailer and its maximum load. Payload refers to the amount of weight that a trailer may carry. Payload is the difference between the trailer’s GVWR and its empty weight.

Yes, in a lot of cases, due to most air brake trailers having a GVWR of 25,000lbs or above.

  1. Trailers under 10,000 pounds GVW rarely require a CDL unless towed by a 4500 series truck or larger. Please check with your state’s transportation authority for guidance.
  2. Trailers over 10,000 pounds GVW are registered in combination with the towing vehicle. If the GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating = sum of truck and trailer’s individual GVWR or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the truck/trailer exceeds 26,000 pounds, you need a CDL. Please check with your state’s transportation authority for guidance.

 

Here are some resources for more information:

Pennsylvania CDL fact sheet

DOT NUMBER

MEDICAL CARD.

UCR registration 

State Police CDL flowchart 

Large pintle hitch trailer

Read our Guide to Air Brake Trailers: Safety & Efficiency.

This guide explores what you need to know about towing air-brake trailers, covering key aspects such as the benefits, compatibility, safety standards, legal requirements, and best practices.

Large pintle hitch trailer