Methodology / worked examples
TowLedger RV Load Check guide
TowLedger keeps the ratings that are often conflated on a single worksheet. The key accounting choice is to add measured tongue weight to the tow vehicle payload while keeping the trailer loaded weight whole for trailer, tow, hitch, and combined checks.
Start from measured tow-vehicle weight
Use a scale weight for the ready vehicle, then add trip occupants and cargo. Add the measured trailer tongue weight because the tongue is carried by the tow vehicle when hitched.
tow vehicle loaded = scale weight + occupants/cargo + tongue weight
5,200 lb + 700 lb + 700 lb = 6,600 lb against a 7,000 lb GVWR, leaving 400 lb.
Keep trailer weight whole
Use loaded trailer weight for trailer GVWR, tow rating, and hitch trailer rating. Tongue weight also has its own hitch rating. Do not subtract tongue weight from the trailer for those checks. When combining the tow vehicle and trailer totals, subtract the tongue once because both loaded totals include it.
combined loaded = tow vehicle loaded + loaded trailer - tongue weight
A 6,600 lb tow vehicle and 8,500 lb trailer with a 700 lb tongue produce a 14,400 lb combined load.
Check axle readings independently
Front and rear axle ratings are separate from GVWR. Loaded scale axle readings are most useful because weight-distribution equipment and cargo placement change the axle split. Their sum should be close to the calculated loaded tow-vehicle weight.
axle remaining = axle rating - loaded axle scale weight
A 4,500 lb rear rating with a 3,500 lb loaded axle reading leaves 1,000 lb of entered rear-axle margin.
Limits and assumptions
- This is a loading worksheet, not a towing approval, route assessment, engineering analysis, or safety certification.
- Use measured axle and tongue weights and the exact ratings for the vehicle, hitch, trailer, tires, and configuration.
- Manufacturer ratings can have conditions for passengers, weight distribution, braking, and equipment that this calculator does not model.