Understanding Jack Load Capacity & What Happens When You Overload
Know Your Gear. Travel with Confidence.
Whether you're leveling your RV at the perfect boondocking spot or raising your trailer for routine maintenance, your jack is doing some serious heavy lifting. But how much is too much? And what really happens when you push a jack past its limit?
At Bastion Distribution, we’re not just here to sell jacks — we’re here to make sure you understand them, use them safely, and enjoy your adventures without avoidable breakdowns. Let's talk about jack load capacity, why it matters, and what can go wrong if you overload.
What Is Jack Load Capacity?
Jack load capacity refers to the maximum weight a jack can safely lift and hold. This number is typically listed in pounds (lbs) or tons, and it's based on rigorous testing by the manufacturer.
For example:
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A 5,000 lb jack is rated to lift up to 5,000 lbs safely.
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Our popular Titan Lift Scissor Jacks are built to support loads up to 7,500 lbs — a serious step up in strength and reliability.
Important: This rating is for vertical lifting only. Angled use or uneven terrain can reduce the effective load capacity dramatically.
Why You Should Never Overload Your Jack
It might be tempting to "make it work" with a lighter-duty jack — but here's what can happen if you exceed the rated capacity:
🔧 Jack Failure
The most obvious (and dangerous) risk: mechanical failure. An overloaded jack can buckle, collapse, or blow out a component mid-use — which can cause injury or damage to your RV or trailer.
⚠️ Vehicle Damage
Trying to lift a rig with the wrong jack can stress the frame, suspension, or undercarriage. You could easily end up with bent brackets or a cracked weld line, especially if the load shifts unexpectedly.
🚫 Warranty Voids
Most manufacturers won’t honor a warranty claim if you've used the jack improperly or exceeded the stated limits. It's a costly mistake for something that’s avoidable.
💀 Injury Risk
This one’s serious: Overloaded jacks can fail suddenly. If you're under the vehicle or trailer when that happens… the results can be fatal. Never gamble on safety.
How to Choose the Right Jack
Here are three simple steps to pick the right jack for your setup:
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Know Your Rig’s Weight
Check the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and make sure your jack's load capacity exceeds what you plan to lift — and then some. -
Factor in the Load Distribution
If you’re lifting just one corner of your trailer, you don’t need to match the full GVWR — but you do need to know what portion of the weight you’re lifting. -
Don’t Cut It Close
Always allow a safety margin. If your jack is rated for 5,000 lbs and your tongue weight is 4,800 lbs, that’s not enough cushion.
Bastion’s Picks: Built for Strength
At Bastion Distribution, we offer a range of electric and manual jacks built to handle serious weight, without compromise. Check out:
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💪 Top-Wind Jacks with Footpads for solid ground contact
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⚡ Electric Tongue Jacks for quick, powered lifting
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🛠️ Heavy-Duty Scissor Jacks rated up to 7,500 lbs
No fluff. No shortcuts. Just rugged, reliable gear made for life on the road — or off it.
Final Thought: Respect the Jack
It’s one of the most overlooked pieces of gear in your RV or trailer setup — but it’s also one of the most important. Respect your jack’s limits, invest in quality, and your setup will thank you.
And if you're in the market for a new jack, you know where to go.
👉 Shop Now at GoBastion.net