Free towing capacity calculator — can your truck tow your trailer, boat, or RV? Compare towing capacity, payload, and GVWR for 17+ truck models.
Towing over your vehicle's rated capacity is dangerous and can void warranties. Always check before you hook up.
Whether you're buying a truck for towing or matching a trailer to your current truck, this calculator ensures safe, legal towing.
Safe towing starts with knowing your numbers. This calculator takes the guesswork out of matching your truck to your trailer, boat, or RV.
Key Features & Benefits
- 17+ Truck Models — Check towing capacity specs for Ford F-150/250/350, Chevy Silverado, RAM 1500/2500/3500, Toyota Tundra, and more.
- Payload & GVWR — Compare max towing, payload capacity, gross vehicle weight rating, and tongue weight limits.
- Trailer Matching — Enter your trailer or boat weight to see which trucks can safely tow it — including weight distribution recommendations.
- Safety Calculations — Ensure you're within safe limits — tongue weight (10-15% of trailer), payload remaining, and total combined weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my truck can tow my trailer?
Check your truck's maximum towing capacity (found on the door jamb sticker or owner's manual), then compare it to your trailer's loaded weight. You need at least a 10-15% safety margin. Also check that the tongue weight doesn't exceed your hitch rating.
What is the difference between towing capacity and payload?
Towing capacity is the maximum weight your truck can pull behind it on a trailer. Payload is the maximum weight you can put IN the truck (passengers, cargo in bed, tongue weight). Exceeding either limit is dangerous.
What size truck do I need to tow a travel trailer?
Small travel trailers (3,000-5,000 lbs) can be towed by half-ton trucks like the F-150 or Silverado 1500. Medium RVs (6,000-10,000 lbs) need a 3/4-ton like the F-250. Large fifth-wheels (12,000+ lbs) require a one-ton dually like the F-350 or RAM 3500.
What happens if I tow more than my truck's rated capacity?
Exceeding towing capacity causes accelerated brake and transmission wear, reduced steering control, suspension damage, and significantly longer stopping distances. It also voids your warranty and may invalidate your insurance coverage in an accident. Always stay within rated limits.
Does towing capacity change with passengers and cargo?
Yes. Your truck's payload capacity must cover passengers, cargo in the bed, and the tongue weight of the trailer (typically 10-15% of trailer weight). If you are carrying 500 lbs of passengers and gear, your available tongue weight and effective towing capacity is reduced accordingly.