Towing Capacity Calculator (GCWR, Tongue Weight and Payload)
Enter your ratings and trailer weight to see whether you are within limits.
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Towing Capacity Calculator (GCWR, Tongue Weight and Payload) by TheCalcTools
How the Towing Capacity Calculator (GCWR, Tongue Weight and Payload) works
Find GCWR, GVWR and the tow rating on the door jamb sticker and in the manual.
Tongue weight is a share of the trailer weight and is carried by the tow vehicle, so it counts as payload.
The combined weight (vehicle, cargo and trailer) must stay under GCWR, the loaded vehicle under GVWR and the trailer under the hitch rating.
The formula
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| GCWR, gross combined weight rating (lb) | 14000 |
|---|---|
| GVWR, gross vehicle weight rating (lb) | 7000 |
| Vehicle curb weight (lb) | 5200 |
| Passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle (lb) | 600 |
| Trailer loaded weight (lb) | 6500 |
| Tongue weight (% of trailer) | 12 % |
| Hitch or tow rating (lb) | 9000 |
- Tongue weight 6,500 × 12% = 780 lb. The loaded vehicle weighs 6,580 lb, leaving 420 lb to GVWR.
- Combined weight leaves 1,700 lb to GCWR. Result: Within all limits.
Result:
| Max trailer by GCWR (lb) | 8,200 |
|---|---|
| Tongue weight (lb) | 780 |
| Loaded tow vehicle weight (lb) | 6,580 |
| Margin to GVWR (lb) | 420 |
| Margin to GCWR (lb) | 1,700 |
| Margin to hitch rating (lb) | 2,500 |
| Result | Within all limits |
Frequently asked questions
What is GCWR?
Gross combined weight rating is the maximum allowed weight of the loaded tow vehicle and trailer together.
How much tongue weight should I have?
About 10 to 15% of the trailer weight on a conventional trailer, and 15 to 25% on a fifth wheel or gooseneck. Too little causes sway.
Sources and further reading
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