Shortwave Sportfishing wrote:
I can't seem to find a solid answer for this, so I thought I'd seek
the collective wisdom of the group.

To wit:

A trailer rated for 4600 lbs GWR means that it will handle up to 4600
lbs of weight - including the trailer.

Now in my world, it seems to me that a "safe" load would be, say 80%
of the max rating including the trailer. But I can't find a
specification or recommendation that states the exact percentage of
what is considered a "safe" load.

Tom, I'll bet money that structurally, the manufacturer has already
included a *factor of safety*. In building systems, for example, there
is a factor of safety for different components, like roof, walls,
foundations, etc.. I"m betting your trailer is the same to cover the
collective behind!

I know I'm over complicating this some what, but I'm just trying to
cover all my bases.

Don't blame you, I would too!