Towing Your Trailer

Keep these in mind when you’re deciding how much your vehicle can tow, and be sure to consult our tow guide and your trailer specialist when you’re finalizing your choice.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The maximum allowable weight of the vehicle.

When looking at GVWR, be sure to consider the weight of the vehicle, drivers/passengers, all the gear and supplies in your trailer. Both your vehicle and the trailer will have a GVWR.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The amount of weight each axle is designed to support—including the weight of the axle itself.

It’s important to note that GAWR assumes the weight is balanced on both sides of the axle—but you’re not going to be anywhere close to that weight… right?

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)

The total amount of weight between the tow vehicle, trailer, and gear/supplies/people/etc. Basically the weight of everything moving down the road.

This is important in regards to the braking system. Staying within spec means the brakes can slow the whole rig down appropriately.

Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW)

The weight of the Trailer without equipment, supplies, or gear. This number helps you calculate how much you can load into your trailer.

Hitch Ratings

Every component of the hitch for trailer towing—receiver, ball, drawbar, etc.—should have a weight rating. These are common failure points, so be sure you’re towing the appropriate weight.