How Much Can My Truck Tow?

A vehicle can only tow as much weight as it is rated for by the vehicle manufacturer, whether it is a pickup truck towing capacity, SUV towing capacity or other vehicle towing capacity.

Manufacturers, including trailer manufacturers, typically provide a number of different weight ratings that are designated by various acronyms.

What Is GVWR?

GVWR stands for gross vehicle weight rating. What does GVWR mean? It is the maximum loaded weight of your vehicle (or trailer), as determined by the manufacturer. GVWR isn’t just the weight of passengers and cargo but also the vehicle itself.

What is GCWR?

GCWR stands for gross combined weight rating. What does GCWR mean? It is the maximum weight of your vehicle with a fully loaded trailer attached, as determined by the vehicle manufacturer.

What is TW?

TW stands for tongue weight. What is tongue weight? It is the downward force exerted on the back of a tow vehicle by a trailer or towable load. The tongue weight is greatly affected by where cargo is positioned in a trailer and is important for maintaining good control of the vehicle.

What Is Curb Weight?

Curb weight is the total weight of your vehicle, apart from any passengers, cargo or extra items. Curb weight does include the weight of gasoline, oil and other fluids necessary for operation.

Towing capacity formula

1. Find out curb weight (on VIN sticker).
2. Add the weight of passengers, fuel, and cargo to the curb weight.
3. Subtract this number from your vehicle’s GCWR ( you may have to look this up using your VIN if it’s not on the door sticker).
4. This is your max towing capacity.
5. Check to make sure the hitch can also handle this weight.