- How To
If you’re preparing to haul heavy loads, understanding towing best practices is essential. This Trailer Towing Guide was created to help drivers choose the right equipment, stay safe on the road, and make the most of their investment.
At TrailersPlus, we specialize in enclosed cargo models and accessories that keep your hauling experience efficient and dependable. Whether you’re new to towing or simply need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the essentials.
Understanding Towing Basics
Safe towing starts with matching your tow vehicle’s capacity to the load you plan to haul. You’ll need to know your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the weight of your unit when fully loaded. Choosing the proper ball mount and receiver hitch is equally important for maintaining balance and control.
What Is Towing Capacity?
Towing capacity is the maximum weight your vehicle can safely pull when paired with a cargo unit.* This figure is set by your vehicle’s manufacturer and considers engine strength, braking power, and frame durability. Measured in pounds or kilograms, towing capacity helps prevent overloading, which could damage your vehicle or compromise safety on the road.
Factors That Impact Towing Capacity
Several key elements determine how much weight your vehicle can manage:
Type of Unit: Enclosed cargo models are heavier by design, so be sure to account for both the unit itself and the gear inside.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This number reflects the maximum total weight your vehicle can carry, including passengers, cargo, and tongue weight.
Weight Distribution: Unevenly placed cargo can strain your vehicle’s hitch and suspension. Using accessories like an E-track system can keep the weight balanced and secure.
Additionally, steep grades, high elevations, or rough terrain can lower your effective towing power.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced drivers make errors when calculating towing capacity. Some of the most frequent include:
- Confusing GVWR with GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)
- Ignoring tongue weight requirements
- Forgetting to include the empty weight of the cargo unit itself
- Estimating instead of measuring
Avoiding these mistakes helps protect your vehicle, equipment, and everyone else on the road.
Safety and Compliance Tips
Beyond math, towing requires an eye on legal and safety guidelines. Always secure your cargo with tie downs or E-track systems; use safety chains to connect your unit to the towing vehicle; check lights, brakes, and tires before every trip; and stay compliant with local towing laws, including weight limits and braking requirements.
With routine maintenance like bearing replacement, brake adjustment, and suspension repair from TrailersPlus, you can keep your setup safe and reliable.
Options Available at TrailersPlus
Our most popular products are enclosed cargo units, built from durable steel to protect your belongings from weather and road debris. You can also take advantage of our Trailer Builder, which allows you to design a unit that fits your specific hauling needs: choosing width, length, GVWR, rear door type, ramp, and more.
Popular accessory options include:
- Tongue boxes for added storage
- E-track systems for cargo management
- Spare tires for peace of mind on the road
- Lighting upgrades for visibility and safety
Every purchase is backed by a manufacturer's warranty. Interstate models offer coverage ranging from one to three years, plus roof warranties of up to a lifetime, depending on the series.
FAQs
How do I find my vehicle’s towing capacity?
Check your owner’s manual or look for a label inside the driver’s side doorframe. You can also consult with experts at TrailersPlus, who can help match your vehicle with the right enclosed cargo unit.
What’s the difference between GVWR and GCWR?
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the max weight your vehicle can carry, including passengers and cargo. GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) includes your vehicle plus the loaded cargo unit. Confusing these numbers is a common mistake to avoid.
How does tongue weight affect towing?
Tongue weight is the downward pressure your cargo unit puts on the hitch, ideally 10 to 15 percent of the total load. Too little tongue weight can cause swaying, while too much can overload your vehicle’s rear axle.
I Want to Tow a Trailer
Hauling doesn’t have to be complicated when you have the right resources. This Trailer Towing Guide from TrailersPlus has covered the essentials, from weight ratings to accessories and warranties.
Schedule an appointment today to secure the perfect enclosed cargo solution and hit the road prepared.
*Source: Kelley Blue Book
