What is the maximum weight for a single axle caravan?

In this blog post, we will answer the following question: What is the maximum weight for a single axle caravan? We will explain what a single axle caravan is, what are its cons and pros, and when you should go for a twin-axle instead. 

What is the maximum weight for a single axle caravan?

The maximum weight for a single axle caravan can be between 1300 kg and 3500 kg, depending on the manufacturer, the wheels and the compliance planted fitted to the van. Our recommendation is to use a twin-axle for a caravan that weighs more than 1300 kg. This will ensure you are safe on the road, no matter the weather conditions.

Single axle caravans can be classified into two main groups:

• caravans weighing no more than 750 kg;
• caravans weighing from 750 to 3,500 kg (uniaxial cargo trailer).

The total weight is taken into account together with the weight of the cargo allowed for transportation. The number of axles affects:

• Caravan stability;
• The load capacity of the trailer;
• The total weight of the structure itself;
• Caravan dimensions;
• Manoeuvrability and ease of movement.

Obviously, a single-axle caravan has:

• Less weight;
• Wider opportunities for manoeuvres;
• Ease of use (since the trailer itself is not heavy, it can be easily attached, unloaded, etc.);
• Lower price;
• Less carrying capacity;
• Single-axle caravans are not suitable for transporting large quantities of equipment (for example, several motorcycles or ATVs) but are ideal for trips to the country, local transfers, etc.
• Single axle caravans do not require any additional documents and permits, in addition to the rights of the standard category B.

The pros of a single axle caravan

Ease of construction. A single-axle trailer for a passenger car on one axle has a minimum weight and at the same time, the load is evenly distributed along the axle, which allows it to be loaded to the maximum.

Agile and smooth ride. Due to the fact that the weight of the structure is small and it combines a minimum of elements, the trailer follows the car smoothly, without jolts, observing all, even the steepest turns, without a threat to other road users and cargo.

Low cost. Since the trailer is smaller, then its price is quite democratic – no wonder the prevalence of such trailers. They are used most often for different types of transportation.

Versatility. A single-axle trailer is suitable for outings in nature, for transporting small-sized furniture, and for transporting medium-sized equipment.

Reliability. Despite the fact that the design is quite simple, it has high-reliability rates. Especially if quality materials were used for the production of the trailer.

Wide choice. The range of trailers is now very pleasing: you can pick up a trailer not only by technical characteristics but also by compatibility with a particular car, as well as by its appearance.

Other questions you may be interested in

Can a Mercedes GLC tow a caravan?

Can a Hyundai i30 tow a caravan?

Can a Jeep Wrangler tow a caravan?

What is the difference between a single and twin axle caravan?

The main differences between a single and twin axle caravan are the number of wheels and the weight they can support. 

A single axle caravan:

• Has two wheels;
• Is a small-sized unit with a permissible weight of 750 kg;
• Is more manoeuvrable and behaves well on uneven roads and rough terrain.

A twin axle caravan:

• Has four wheels;
• Allows you to carry much larger loads and more weight;
• Handled better when reversing.

When choosing a twin-axle or single-axle trailer, remember that four wheels will keep on the road better than two. Two-axle models are more stable, but at the same time, they create problems when driving on rough terrain or bumpy roads. 

It is better and more correct to choose a single-axle or two-axle trailer in terms of carrying capacity. Models on two axles can carry loads weighing up to 1800 kg when the load on each wheel reaches 450 kg. Single-axle models are suitable for undemanding motorists transporting light loads.

The mass directly depends on which trailer is a two-axle or a single-axle one. Samples with two axles are usually heavier, but you also need to consider the body’s dimensions.  Due to this, some uniaxial models turn out to match the biaxial ones – heavy. The lighter the caravan, the fewer driving problems and the higher the speed, the easier it is to overtake.

When choosing a single-axle or twin-axle trailer for a car, you should think about the convenience and handling. Single-axle, low-weight models can be easily deployed by hand for easy docking. In the case of two axles, it will be problematic to deploy the trailer – to dock you will have to manoeuvre with the car itself. And if the trailer is also heavy, then the procedure will have to be carried out together.

Is it easier to tow a single or twin axle caravan?

For new drivers especially, we believe that it is easier to tow a single axle caravan. Consider weight distribution – models on two axles are less sensitive to this – the mass is mostly distributed to the wheels, and not to the hitch. In the case of one axle, the opposite is true – to ensure the trailer’s stability and the car itself, the load will have to be centred.

The single-axle trailer is aimed at urban dwellers who move mostly on asphalt and those who do not need to transport heavy loads. New drivers are better off practising driving with two-wheeled models. 

The four-wheeled vehicles are focused on moving large loads, including on country roads and rough terrain. They are also suitable for transporting goods with a high centre of gravity.

Conclusions

In the end, we recommend buying a single-axle trailer for those who plan to use it for personal purposes, for transporting small loads on different roads, both forest and public roads. A single-axle trailer is well suited for summer adventurers, as well as outdoor enthusiasts.

As for a twin-axle trailer, it is better to use this solely for the towing capacity and cases where the two-wheeled analogue does not cope with the task at hand. If you are going to transport heavy loads or a fully-loaded 1800 kg caravan, you better buy a two-axle trailer.

Each caravan, like everything else in this world, has its own purpose, it is only important to think carefully and weigh all the pros and cons before buying. Before buying a light trailer, you must clearly understand for what purposes you are purchasing it, you should definitely study all the pros and cons of each of the applicants.

Only in this case will your choice be deliberate and correct. I hope you make the right choice. I hope your purchase will be successful!

Please let us know if you have any comments or questions on the content.

FAQ on What is the maximum weight for a single axle caravan?

Can I tow a twin axle caravan?

You can tow a twin axle caravan, as long as the total weight of your caravan+car doesn’t exceed the legal towing limit. Towing a twin axle caravan is harder to manoeuvre than a single axe. 

How much does a 16 ft caravan weigh?

A 16 ft caravan weighs 1795 kg unloaded, and 2200 kg (or more) loaded with water, luggage and passenger weight. 

Do twin axle caravans snake?

Twin axle caravans will not snake as long as you load the caravan correctly.  You may feel slightly more rolling resistance with a similar single axle trailer, which you certainly won’t notice.

What is the difference between a single and twin axle caravan?

The main differences between a single and twin axle caravan are the number of wheels and the weight they can support. 

References

• Twin axle vs Single Axle – Discussions | The Caravan Club
• Twin axle caravan or single axle caravan, what’s the difference …
• What Type of Trailer Do You Need – Single or Double Axle.