Are you aware of the difference between the Tare and Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) weights of a horse float?
Understanding the difference between tare weight and Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) is important when it comes to determining the maximum load capacity of a horse float. Knowing this can help you avoid safety issues and ensure that you're following the law.
The tare weight of a horse float refers to its weight when it is empty and has no load, including any equipment or accessories that are part of the float's structure.
This weight is determined by the manufacturer of the horse float and is typically listed on the compliance plate (VIN tag) of the float. It is important to know this weight and if the vin tag on the float is the actual Tare weight of the trailer including the options you have added or if the weight is that of the standard float without any optional extras you may have chosen to add to the float standard features.
In Thoroughbred Floats’ case, this is left blank as each float that leaves is custom-built with such different features, so it is up to the individual owner to ensure they are aware of the float tare weight before loading.
On the other hand, the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of a horse float refers to the maximum weight that the float can carry, including its own weight and the weight of any load or payload. This weight is also determined by the manufacturer and is listed on the compliance plate (Vin tag) on the float.
To determine the maximum load capacity of a horse float, you need to subtract the tare weight from the GVM. This will give you the maximum weight that the float can carry in terms of horses, equipment, supplies ie water, feed, etc
It is important to note that overloading a horse float beyond its GVM can lead to serious safety issues, including instability, tire blowouts, as well as leading to issues with the float’s running gear such as Axels, Brakes, springs, etc as well as problems this could cause for the towing vehicle.
It is the responsibility of the owner and operator of the horse float to ensure that they do not exceed the maximum load capacity of the float.
The tare weight of a horse float refers to its weight when it is empty, while the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) refers to the maximum weight that the vehicle can carry, including its own weight and the weight of any load or payload.
To determine the maximum load capacity of a horse float, you need to subtract the tare weight from the GVM.
It is crucial to adhere to the maximum load capacity to ensure the safety of both the horses and other drivers on the road.
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