Trailer Tongue Weight Calculator
Enter the loaded trailer weight, the hitch type and, if known, the measured tongue weight.
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Trailer Tongue Weight Calculator by TheCalcTools
How the Trailer Tongue Weight Calculator works
Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer puts on the hitch. Industry guidance for conventional ball hitches is about 10% to 15% of the loaded trailer weight, and 15% to 30% for fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailers.
Too little causes dangerous sway; too much overloads the tow vehicle’s rear axle and lightens the steering. Never exceed the vehicle’s and hitch’s rated tongue weight in the owner’s manual.
The formula
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Loaded trailer weight (lb) | 5000 |
|---|---|
| Hitch type | Conventional ball hitch (10% to 15%) |
| Measured tongue weight (lb, optional) | 550 |
- A 5,000 lb trailer on a ball hitch should put 500 to 750 lb on the hitch.
- 550 lb is 11.0%: Within the recommended range.
Result:
| Recommended tongue weight | 500 to 750 lb |
|---|---|
| Measured tongue weight share | 11.0% |
| Check | Within the recommended range |
| Recommended range (kg) | 227 to 340 kg |
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure tongue weight?
Use a tongue-weight scale, or a bathroom scale with a lever arrangement for light trailers, or a public truck scale.
Sources and further reading
- GMC: What is tongue weight?
- NHTSA: Towing a trailer, being equipped for safety
- Wikipedia: Trailer (vehicle)
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This calculator gives estimates for information only. Check important results independently before you rely on them. See our disclaimer.