Are you in the market for a UTV? If so, you might feel overwhelmed by all the options available. With so many specs and features to compare, it can be tricky to determine which model is right for you. But if you need a UTV that can handle all your heavy lifting, the most important factor to consider is hauling capacity.

What exactly is hauling capacity, and how should it influence your decision? Keep reading to learn more, then come shop with us here at East Bay Motorsports. You can browse through a wide selection of UTV models at our dealership in Hayward, CA.

What Is Hauling Capacity?

Let’s start with the most basic question: what exactly does “hauling capacity” mean? Otherwise known as rolling capacity, this capacity relates to cargo that is transported by a trailer with freely moving wheels. When you hitch a trailer to your UTV, the combined weight of the trailer and its contents should not exceed the vehicle’s hauling capacity.

Hauling capacity is distinct from payload capacity. Payload capacity refers to the contents of the vehicle’s own storage compartments. It should also be noted that hauling capacity does not pertain to cargo that is being dragged on the ground. Hauling capacity indicates how much weight your UTV can safely handle when the cargo is being supported by wheels.

Factors That Affect Hauling Capacity

The hauling capacity of a UTV is determined by the manufacturer. This number is calculated based on the assumption that the vehicle will be traveling on standard terrain types, such as compact dirt and grass. When the terrain becomes more difficult to navigate, your UTV must work harder to haul cargo the same distance. This means hauling capacity will be reduced.

Incline is another key factor, as hauling capacity assumes the vehicle will be traveling on level ground. Keep in mind that your UTV’s hauling capacity will be reduced when scaling hills, or when climbing out of a ditch.

How Much Hauling Capacity Do I Need?

If you plan to use your UTV strictly for trail riding, you might not place a high priority on hauling capacity. But if you need a sturdy workhorse, hauling capacity is probably going to play an important role in your decision.

To determine your hauling needs, you should approximately calculate the weight of all the supplies you would like to transport with your UTV. Remember to include the weight of the trailer itself in that equation. You should also consider the terrain you expect to encounter on an average day, and to what extent those conditions might reduce your hauling capacity.

If you have any questions about UTV hauling capacity, feel free to ask the qualified staff at East Bay Motorsports. We proudly serve customers from all over the Bay Area.