Towing Capacity Calculator
Enter your vehicle and trailer information below to calculate safe towing capacity and get personalized recommendations.
Calculation Results
Detailed Breakdown
Total Trailer Weight (Trailer + Cargo):
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Calculated Tongue Weight (12%):
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Total Vehicle Weight (Vehicle + Cargo + Tongue):
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Total Combined Weight (Vehicle + Trailer):
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Payload Capacity Used:
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Remaining Payload:
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Towing Capacity Used:
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Remaining Towing Capacity:
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Safety Recommendations
Towing Safety Tips
Pre-Trip Checklist
- Check tire pressure on both vehicle and trailer
- Inspect trailer lights and signals
- Verify hitch connection and safety chains
- Ensure load is properly secured and balanced
- Check brake controller settings (if applicable)
- Adjust side mirrors for trailer visibility
Proper Loading Techniques
- Place 60% of cargo weight in front half of trailer
- Keep heavy items low and centered
- Distribute weight evenly side-to-side
- Secure all cargo with straps or tie-downs
- Never exceed trailer's maximum capacity
Driving Best Practices
- Reduce speed, especially in adverse conditions
- Increase following distance (double normal)
- Make wider turns to account for trailer
- Brake earlier and more gradually
- Avoid sudden lane changes
- Check mirrors frequently
Tongue Weight Guidelines
Why Tongue Weight Matters
Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer applies to the hitch. Proper tongue weight (10-15% of total trailer weight) is crucial for:
- Stability: Prevents trailer sway at highway speeds
- Control: Maintains proper steering and braking
- Safety: Reduces risk of fishtailing or jackknifing
How to Measure Tongue Weight
- Use a tongue weight scale (most accurate)
- Use a bathroom scale with a pipe or board
- Have it measured at a certified scale facility
- Always measure with the trailer loaded
Adjusting Tongue Weight
- Too light (<10%): Move cargo forward in trailer
- Too heavy (>15%): Move cargo rearward (but not too far back)
- Never reduce tongue weight below 10%
- Consider weight distribution hitch for heavy loads
Hitch Classes Explained
Hitches are classified based on their weight carrying capacity. Choose the appropriate class for your towing needs:
| Class | Towing Capacity | Tongue Weight | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class I | Up to 2,000 lbs | Up to 200 lbs | Small trailers, bike racks, cargo carriers |
| Class II | Up to 3,500 lbs | Up to 350 lbs | Small campers, boats, utility trailers |
| Class III | 5,000-8,000 lbs | 500-800 lbs | Medium trailers, boats, campers |
| Class IV | 10,000-12,000 lbs | 1,000-1,200 lbs | Large campers, horse trailers, heavy loads |
| Class V | 12,000-20,000 lbs | 1,200-2,000 lbs | Fifth wheels, gooseneck trailers, commercial use |
Trailer Brake Requirements
When Are Trailer Brakes Required?
Requirements vary by state, but general guidelines:
- Most states: Trailers over 3,000 lbs require brakes
- Some states: Trailers over 1,500 lbs require brakes
- Check your specific state regulations
- Federal law requires brakes on trailers over 3,000 lbs for interstate travel
Types of Trailer Brakes
- Electric Brakes: Most common, controlled by brake controller
- Surge Brakes: Hydraulic, activated by trailer pushing on hitch
- Electric-over-Hydraulic: Combines benefits of both systems
Brake Controller Setup
- Install appropriate brake controller in towing vehicle
- Calibrate controller to trailer's weight
- Test brakes in safe area before hitting the road
- Adjust gain setting for proper braking force
Trailer Sway Prevention
Causes of Trailer Sway
- Improper tongue weight (<10% or >15%)
- Incorrect tire pressure
- Overloaded or improperly loaded trailer
- High speeds or wind gusts
- Passing large vehicles
- Worn suspension components
Solutions and Prevention
- Weight Distribution: Ensure proper tongue weight (10-15%)
- Load Position: Keep heavy items forward and low
- Tire Pressure: Maintain recommended PSI
- Sway Control: Use weight distribution or anti-sway devices
- Speed: Reduce speed in windy conditions
- Maintenance: Check bearings, tires, and suspension regularly
What to Do If Sway Occurs
- Don't panic or make sudden movements
- Don't brake hard - this can worsen sway
- Take foot off accelerator to slow gradually
- Apply trailer brakes manually if equipped with controller
- Steer straight ahead until sway stops
- Pull over safely and check load/tire pressure
State Towing Regulations Overview
Common State Requirements
While regulations vary by state, most require:
- Safety Chains: Two chains crossed under hitch
- Lights: Brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights
- License Plates: Trailer must display license plate
- Mirrors: Extended mirrors for visibility past trailer
- Brakes: Required for trailers over certain weight (typically 3,000 lbs)
- Breakaway System: Required for trailers with brakes
Speed Limits
- Many states have reduced speed limits when towing
- Common towing speed limits: 55-65 mph
- Some states restrict towing vehicles from left lanes on multi-lane highways
- Always check specific state regulations for your route
Important State-Specific Considerations
- Registration: Some states require separate trailer registration
- Insurance: Verify your coverage includes trailer liability
- Inspections: Some states require periodic trailer inspections
- Weight Limits: Commercial vehicles and heavy loads may have special requirements
- Permits: Oversize/overweight loads may require special permits
Resources
For specific state regulations:
- Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- Check your state's transportation department website
- Review your vehicle and trailer owner's manuals
- Consult with trailer dealers or towing professionals