Tongue Weight Calculator

For a bumper-pull travel trailer, tongue weight is typically 10–15% of the loaded trailer weight. Too little causes sway; too much overloads the rear axle and payload.

The 10–15% rule

Tongue weight = trailer weight × 0.10 to 0.15. Many RV owners aim around 12%. Use the loaded (wet) weight, not the brochure dry weight, because the brochure "dry hitch weight" is measured empty.

Measure the real number with a tongue weight scale or a CAT scale weigh (see our CAT scale walkthrough).

Safety note: These are planning estimates, not a guarantee your setup is safe or legal. Always verify with your truck's door-jamb sticker, the manufacturer's towing guide for your exact configuration, the trailer's VIN sticker, and a real weigh at a CAT scale. Never exceed any rating.

Last reviewed October 2026 by Jim Frith.