Trailer Weigh Station Laws Every Hauler Should Know
If you’re a hauler in Arizona—whether you’re towing an equipment trailer, gooseneck trailer, deckover trailer, or any large capacity trailer—one of the most common questions is:
“Do trailers need to stop at weigh stations in Arizona?”
It’s a smart question. Arizona’s weigh-station laws can be confusing, especially since the rules change depending on whether your trailer is used for business or personal purposes. In this guide, Fleming Trailers breaks down Arizona weigh-station laws, who must stop, what the weight limits are, and what happens if you don’t comply.
The Short Answer: Most Commercial Trailers Must Stop
Under Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules, any commercial vehicle combination with a gross weight rating (GVWR or GCWR) of 10,001 pounds or more must stop at open weigh stations.
That means if you’re hauling cargo, equipment, or materials for business purposes—construction, landscaping, farming, or deliveries—you’ll need to pull into weigh stations whenever the “OPEN” sign is lit.
Common trailers that must stop:
- Gooseneck trailers used for equipment transport
- Flatbed and deckover trailers used by contractors or construction crews
- Dump trailers or equipment trailers used for landscaping or agriculture
- Enclosed cargo trailers for business deliveries
Even if your truck and trailer are under 26,000 lbs GVWR (the threshold for commercial driver’s licenses), you still fall under commercial-use DOT rules if you’re engaged in business activity.
When You Don’t Have to Stop
Not every hauler in Arizona needs to hit the brakes at a weigh station. The exceptions are clear:
- Personal-use trailers: If you’re hauling your camper, boat, horses, or ATV for recreation—not for hire—you typically don’t need to stop.
- Non-commercial farm use: Some small agricultural trailers used exclusively on private land or within a limited radius may be exempt.
- Light utility trailers: Single-axle, light-duty trailers below the 10,000 lb threshold and used for personal hauling are generally exempt.
Example Scenarios
- Personal horse trailer under 10,000 lbs: You’re hauling two horses to a show for fun, not profit → You can pass by.
- Landscaping trailer with mowers and tools, 12,000 lbs GVWR: You’re driving to a client job → You must stop.
- Contractor with a Ford F-350 and 14,000 lb gooseneck: Even if you’re not for hire, the setup is over 10,001 lbs GVWR → You must stop.
When in doubt, stop—ADOT officers can issue fines for bypassing open scales, and “I didn’t know” doesn’t hold up as an excuse.
What About Agricultural and Farm Exemptions?
Arizona offers limited farm exemptions under A.R.S. 28-5242, but these generally apply only when:
- The vehicle is used within 150 air miles of the farm.
- The load is agricultural products, machinery, or supplies.
- The operation is not for hire (commercial transport disqualifies you).
Farmers using gooseneck or equipment trailers should still carry registration and proof of exemption to avoid confusion at scales.
Understanding Arizona’s Weigh-Station Rules
What to Expect When You Stop
- Pull in when the “OPEN” light is on.
- Follow posted speed limits and signage into the weigh lane.
- Your vehicle and trailer will drive over scales—some are in-motion systems, others require a complete stop.
- If your combination weight or paperwork triggers a flag, an inspector may request additional documents (registration, proof of insurance, logbooks, or DOT numbers).
- Once cleared, you’ll be waved through and back on the road.
🚚 Arizona Trailer Weigh Station Requirements at a Glance
Penalties for Skipping a Weigh Station in Arizona
Ignoring an open weigh station in Arizona can lead to costly consequences:
- Fines ranging from $100 to $500
- Possible inspection citations for vehicle or trailer violations
- Points on your commercial driving record
- In serious cases, a court summons or temporary vehicle impoundment
The Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S. 28-5241 through 28-5245) give officers authority to stop, inspect, and penalize non-compliant haulers.
If you’re running a business, those fines can also show up on your DOT safety score, which affects insurance rates and federal audits.
Arizona vs. Neighboring States
If you haul across state lines, know that weigh-station laws vary by region:
If you’re traveling from California into Arizona, you might find the process a bit less strict—but you’re still expected to stop when your load meets federal commercial criteria.
Trailer Compliance Tips for Arizona Haulers
- Know your GVWR – Check the trailer’s VIN plate and your tow vehicle’s door jamb sticker. Add both ratings for total combined weight.
- Display proper registration – Arizona requires current trailer registration and license plates.
- Keep documents handy – Have your DOT number, insurance, and vehicle registration ready when entering a station.
- Maintain your trailer – Inspect tires, lights, and brakes; ADOT can cite for unsafe equipment.
- Stay under your load rating – Overloading increases fines and risks.
How to Identify a Weigh Station in Arizona
Planning Ahead: Weigh Station Locations in Arizona
Here are some major weigh-station locations you’re likely to encounter:- Ehrenberg (I-10, near California border)
- Topock (I-40, near California border)
- San Simon (I-10, near New Mexico border)
- Kingman (I-40)
- Flagstaff (I-17 / I-40 interchange)
- Marana (I-10 north of Tucson)
Why Trailer Type Matters
Fleming Trailers offers a variety of gooseneck, deckover, utility, and equipment trailers—each with its own weight classification and DOT considerations.
For example:
- A 14 ft utility trailer might keep you under the weigh-station threshold.
- A 40 ft gooseneck deckover likely won’t—you’ll be in commercial territory.
When you buy from Fleming Trailers, our team can help you calculate your total load weight, understand Arizona trailer laws, and ensure your setup is fully compliant before you ever hit the road.
What Happens Inside a Weigh Station?
- Enter the scale lane when the station is open.
- Slow to posted speed and follow signals.
- Drive onto the scales—you’ll either be weighed in motion or at a full stop.
-
Inspectors may check:
- Vehicle and trailer registration
- Weight distribution and axle load
- Brake and light function
- DOT numbers and safety decals
- Once cleared, you’ll receive a green light to exit and continue your route.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming personal use applies: Even small contractors are often classified as commercial.
- Ignoring GVWR: The combined rating—not your actual load—determines your obligation to stop.
- Bypassing an open scale: Even one missed stop can cost you time and fines.
- Overloading trailers: This leads to uneven braking, safety issues, and higher inspection scrutiny.
Final Thoughts: Stay Legal, Stay Safe, and Haul with Confidence
Understanding Arizona trailer weigh-station requirements isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about safety, professionalism, and protecting your investment.
At Fleming Trailers, we don’t just sell trailers—we help Arizona haulers stay compliant and confident on every trip.
Whether you need a new gooseneck, equipment trailer, or utility trailer, our team will walk you through registration, weight classifications, and DOT compliance so you can hit the road safely and legally.
Need a Trailer That Keeps You Road-Ready in Arizona? Whether you’re hauling equipment across Phoenix or managing a construction site in Tucson, Fleming Trailers has the right trailer for your job.å From dump and equipment trailers to custom goosenecks and deckovers, every trailer we build is engineered for strength, safety, and compliance with Arizona DOT regulations.