Trailer balance estimator
Tongue Weight Calculator
Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer puts on the hitch. Too little can cause sway; too much can overload the vehicle or hitch.
Fine-tune the estimate
Total trailer weight including cargo.
Common lower planning range for many bumper-pull trailers.
Common upper planning range for many bumper-pull trailers.
Method
How this calculator estimates it
Tongue weight range = loaded trailer weight × low/high percentage.
Avoid this
Common mistakes
- Loading too much weight behind the trailer axle.
- Assuming level appearance means tongue weight is correct.
- Ignoring hitch and receiver ratings.
Before you choose
- Use an actual scale when possible. Estimates are only a planning check.
- Moving cargo forward increases tongue weight. Moving cargo rearward decreases it but can increase sway risk.
- Never exceed the tow vehicle, receiver, ball mount, or trailer rating.
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