Trucking Devices and Axle Weights

Garmin's trucking devices only allow single axle weights to be entered even though most trucks operate on a tandem axle weight.  Most interstates have a maximum tandem axle weight of 34,000 pounds so it is common to enter that number as the maximum weight per axle.  The device will then alert you that you are overweight and/or will route you off of the interstate.  The alert is driven by the fact that in most states, the maximum weight per axle on interstates is 20,000 pounds.

You will need to enter the maximum weight per axle as half of the tandem axle weight or create a truck profile leaving the maximum weight per axle as unknown.

NOTE: The steer axle is not included in the entry of axle weights.  The gross weight will continue to be required within the vehicle profile. Entering the axle weight along with the gross weight (which is required for all vehicle profiles) will provide the proper weight information for routing.

FOR EUROPEAN DEVICES:

• If you enter two trailers or enter a tandem axle trailer in a vehicle profile, any trailer configurations will base the routing on this profile and limit your speed to 20mph to comply with local law within the UK. This is based on FTA law. Ensure if you are carrying a long single trailer you do not set it as two, as this will cause the speed limitations above.
• Areas that use dual carriageway or similar systems can also have speed limit restrictions due to your vehicle profile being created incorrectly or using tandem axels. Ensure your vehicle profile is checked before your journey.