Caravan Stability
Proper load balance is one of the most critical factors in safe towing. Even when you’re under your weight limits, how your caravan is loaded can dramatically affect braking, steering, sway, and overall control.
The Stability Chart page gives you powerful visual tools and data tables to monitor how your caravan is loaded — across all three dimensions.
Why Load Distribution Matters
When towing a caravan, poor load placement can result in:
- Trailer sway (too much weight behind the axle)
- Poor braking or steering (too much weight at the front or on one side)
- Instability in high winds or on corners (from top-heavy loads)
To help reduce these risks, LoadMate supports the widely recommended 60/40 load rule:
📏 60% of the load should be placed forward of the caravan’s axle(s)
40% should be placed behind — while keeping weight low and centred.
Heavier items should be stored on or near the axle(s) and at floor level, avoiding excess load at the rear or up high. Your tow ball download should remain between 8–12% of your caravan’s ATM for optimal balance.
What You’ll See on the Stability Chart Page
LoadMate provides live, dynamic charts based on your saved storage locations and load entries.
🟦 Longitudinal Load Distribution
This chart and data table show the weight of each load relative to the axle(s) — split into:
- Forward of axle group
- Rear of axle group
You’ll see:
- A spline area chart visualising total weight by location
- % of load forward vs rear of the axle centre
- A table of each location with:
- Name
- Load weight (kg)
- Position (forward/rear)
- Contribution to balance (%)
This helps you clearly understand how your caravan is loaded front-to-back — and how to fix it if it’s not optimal.
🟥 Lateral Load Distribution
Side-to-side loading is just as important for stability, particularly under braking or on uneven terrain.
Here you’ll find:
- A breakdown of left vs right side loads
- Total weight per side (kg)
- % of total load for each side
If you’ve entered actual weights from a professional weigh-in, LoadMate will also show:
- Individual wheel weights (e.g. Front Left, Rear Right)
- % balance across the axle(s)
- Highlights of any uneven load distribution
📊 This is key for preventing lean, sway, or uneven tyre wear.
🟨 Vertical Load Distribution
Tall caravans or those with roof-mounted gear can become unstable if weight is carried too high.
This section helps you:
- Visualise how high each load is stored (roof, mid, floor)
- Spot top-heavy setups
- Reallocate heavy items down low for improved handling
The vertical view adds an extra dimension to your understanding of stability and helps reduce rollover or sway risks.
Using the Stability Chart Page
1. Start with the longitudinal chart
Aim for a 60/40 front-rear weight split
2. Check lateral balance
Keep side-to-side loads even — especially heavy items
3. Review vertical load height
Place heavier items low and central, near the axle(s)
As you adjust load locations or make changes to your caravan in LoadMate, the Stability Chart updates dynamically — helping you stay within safe and optimal balance ranges.
A Few Important Notes
- LoadMate is a complementary tool — not a replacement for professional assessments
- For critical setups, uneven rigs, or heavily modified caravans, it’s always best to seek expert advice
- If you’re struggling to achieve a balanced load, consider consulting a mobile weighing professional or vehicle engineering specialist
⚖️ Proper balance isn’t just about limits — it’s about control, safety, and confidence on the road.