By When it comes to towing a trailer, one of the most important (and often misunderstood) factors is weight. Whether you’re a seasoned hauler or renting a trailer for the first time, understanding how trailer weight works can save you from serious safety issues—and even legal trouble.
1. Trailer Weight Terms 101
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating):
This is the maximum total weight the trailer can safely handle—including the trailer itself, your cargo, and any additional gear. You’ll find this number on the trailer’s data plate or in the owner’s manual.
Curb Weight (or Empty Weight):
This is how much the trailer weighs on its own, without any cargo loaded. Think of it as the trailer’s “dry weight.”
Payload Capacity:
This is how much you can add to the trailer. To calculate it, subtract the empty weight from the GVWR.
Example: If your trailer has a GVWR of 10,000 lbs and an empty weight of 4,000 lbs, your payload capacity is 6,000 lbs.
Tongue Weight:
This is the amount of downward force the trailer exerts on your tow vehicle’s hitch. Too little or too much tongue weight can make towing dangerous, so it’s important to get it right—ideally 10–15% of the total trailer weight.
2. Why Trailer Weight Matters
It affects everything—from how your vehicle handles, to braking distance, to what kind of hitch and wiring setup you need. Overloading a trailer can lead to:
- Tire blowouts
- Brake failure
- Hitch damage
- Unsafe sway or instability
And if you’re renting out your trailer, it’s just as important to make sure renters understand these numbers too.
3. Don’t Forget Your Tow Vehicle
It’s not just about the trailer. Your tow vehicle also has a maximum towing capacity, which should never be exceeded. Always match your trailer’s loaded weight to a vehicle capable of handling it.
4. Weight and the Law
In most states, exceeding a trailer’s weight rating—or failing to follow proper distribution—can lead to fines or denied insurance claims in the event of an accident. That’s why Towlos requires trailers to have current registration and encourages hosts to clearly list weight specs on their listings.
5. Quick Tips Before You Tow
- Double check GVWR and payload before loading.
- Distribute weight evenly across the trailer.
- Keep tongue weight within the 10–15% range.
- Never exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity.
- Use a brake controller when required.
The Bottom Line:
Trailer weight isn’t just a number—it’s a critical piece of safe and successful towing. Whether you’re renting a utility trailer for the weekend or hauling a car cross-country, getting your weight numbers right is key.
Have questions about trailer weight or what your setup can handle? Reach out to us anytime—we’re here to help make towing easy, safe, and stress-free.
