Guide

How much weight can my car tow with a trailer?

The key weight terms to check before renting a trailer.

Updated
Updated
Reading time
4 min

The binding values are in your vehicle documents and on the trailer.

01

The terms

Gross weight is the maximum permitted trailer mass. Empty weight is the trailer without cargo. Payload is roughly what you can add. Actual loaded weight matters when you drive.

02

Towing capacity and tongue load

Towing capacity is the car's limit. Tongue load acts on the coupling and affects stability. Both limits must be respected even if the trailer still has space.

03

Practical rule

Load heavy items low and near the axle area. Secure loose goods, add up weights and choose a lighter setup if unsure.

Sources and notes