Quick question, My trailer GVWR is 2995lbs. The trailer itself weighs 988lbs.
Does this mean the maximum amount of weight I can put in the trailer is 2007lbs?

 

yep that is correct

 

Ughhhh. That blows.

 

Well, if it blows, it blows.

In the scheme of things, as a percentage, that's quite the impressive Payload Capacity on that base weight of Trailer. It sounds pretty identical to my 5' x 9' Utility Trailer. However, it's all about what meets your need.

As background, a very standard, single Axle capacity is 3,500 lbs. So, good/bad/indifferent, that's likely a limit that your Trailer was designed around.

From there, standard Axle capacities go to values like 5,000 lbs., and 7,500 lbs.

What's bad/disappointing about the capacity of this Trailer?

 

When I bought the trailer for some reason my mind was hooked around the "3500lb" axle rating.
Don't get me wrong I like the trailer it's made by Big Tex and it's very well made

 

You might contact Big Tex with your VIN, and ask if you really have a 3500# axle. That 2995# rating sounds like they made it for a state that requires brakes at 3000#.

If you look here, you will see that the majority of states, in green, require brakes at 3000#.

http://www.brakebuddy.com/Towing-Laws

 

In case it applies to your situation, I added Brakes myself to my Trailer. The Hub Holes were there, and aligned perfectly.

I got the Parts at 'Redneck Trailer Supply' just North of Denver. Piece O'Cake.