Towing Tongue Weight Calculator

Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer's coupler exerts on the tow vehicle's hitch ball. It is part of the loaded trailer weight, transferred to the hitch by how the load sits relative to the trailer axles. Correct tongue weight keeps the trailer stable; too little causes sway and too much overloads the rear of the tow vehicle.

For a conventional bumper-pull (ball-mount) trailer, guidance commonly puts tongue weight at about 10 to 15 percent of the loaded trailer weight. Fifth-wheel and gooseneck trailers carry more, often around 15 to 25 percent. This calculator uses an editable target range so you can match your trailer type and manufacturer guidance.

You can use a dedicated tongue-weight scale, or place the coupler jack on a bathroom scale at coupler height (using a beam-and-pivot method to stay within the scale's range), or weigh the loaded trailer and the tongue separately at a public scale. Always measure with the trailer loaded the way you will tow it.

When too little weight sits ahead of the trailer axles, the trailer is tail-heavy and easily upset by wind, passing trucks, or steering inputs, setting off side-to-side sway that can grow dangerously. Shifting cargo forward of the axles raises tongue weight and restores stability. The right percentage keeps the trailer tracking straight.

Yes. Excessive tongue weight pushes down the rear of the tow vehicle, lightens the front wheels, and can reduce steering and braking control, as well as exceeding the hitch and rear-axle ratings. The goal is to land within the recommended percentage band, not simply to maximise tongue weight. Stay within all vehicle and hitch limits.