Definition of the Dry Weight of a Boat Trailer
The definition of the dry weight of a boat trailer is, by its nature, a very particular definition that may have both physical and legal ramifications. It conveys specific information concerning the condition of the boat trailer and the goods necessary to the act of boating and to the act of trailering a boat. It likewise allows the trailer user to communicate specifics about the boat trailer in a readily identifiable way, and represent savings in taxes or fees for the boat owner or operator.
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The Definition
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The dry weight of a trailer is the empty weight of the trailer. In the case of a boat trailer, this means the weight of the trailer without the boat, any fluids or equipment related to the boat, or any gear associated with the use of the boat. It does, however, include the weight of the loading rails, the winch and any tackle associated with the winch or the loading of the boat. It also includes the weight of the tires, even though they are not a "permanent" part of the trailer.
Significance
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The significance of the definition of the dry weight of a boat trailer is that it defines a specific quantity which must be known in order to successfully load and tow the trailer. If the definition were not so exactly limited, questions might arise during the planning phase of a tow which could lead to the misapplication of data, possibly resulting in damage to the trailer, the boat and the vehicle.
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Function
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The function of the definition of the dry weight of a boat trailer is to convey specific information concerning the dry weight of the boat trailer to users, owners and operators of the trailer, as well as to the users, owners and operators of any boat to be carried on the trailer. If it were not for the very specific definition, confusion might result which would result in the improper placement of goods aboard the trailer.
Another possible result of the function of the definition might be the exclusion of certain goods, related to the boat but not a part of the dry weight of the trailer, in fee- or tax-related assessments, such as personal property taxes. Such things ought to be excluded from the valuation of the trailer, as they do not constitute part of the dry weight according to the definition.
Features
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The features of the definition include its specificity and the use of the word "dry." The definition is highly specific, that is, it includes only the constituent parts of the boat trailer and nothing more.
The word "dry" may seem confusing at first, leading a reader to wonder if the "wet weight" is different. However, the definition's exclusionary nature explains that apparent conflict. While the wet weight of the boat trailer will be different by the weight of any water laying steady on it, following the loading of a boat and the removal of the trailer from a boat ramp, the dry weight is so defined as to demonstrate that these two conditions, wet and dry, are not related.
Warning
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Although the definition of the dry weight of a boat trailer is specific, not all persons who may hear the phrase "dry weight of a boat trailer" will be aware of the specific limitations imposed by the definition. As a consequence, it may be necessary to point out where, when and why the definition is applicable to a particular circumstance by maintaining a list of materials associated with the trailer, as well as a current copy of a pocket dictionary for handy reference.
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