GVWR Towing Capacity Chart
GVWR is useful for estimating payload and tongue weight margin, but it is not the same as towing capacity. Use this chart as a planning aid, then use GCWR and your actual loaded weights for the final tow calculation.
What this chart can tell you
The chart estimates payload range from GVWR and typical curb-weight ranges. It also shows how much payload is consumed by a 10-15 percent tongue weight. This is useful for spotting payload problems before choosing a trailer.
It does not replace your manufacturer towing guide, driver-door payload label, owner manual GCWR chart, hitch label, tire ratings, axle ratings, or trailer data plate.
GVWR payload and tongue weight chart
| Vehicle GVWR | Typical curb-weight range | Estimated payload range | Trailer tongue weight supported at 10-15% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5,000 lb | 3,700-4,200 lb | 800-1,300 lb | 80-195 lb |
| 6,000 lb | 4,300-5,000 lb | 1,000-1,700 lb | 100-255 lb |
| 7,000 lb | 5,000-5,800 lb | 1,200-2,000 lb | 120-300 lb |
| 8,500 lb | 6,000-7,000 lb | 1,500-2,500 lb | 150-375 lb |
| 10,000 lb | 6,500-8,000 lb | 2,000-3,500 lb | 200-525 lb |
| 12,000 lb | 7,500-9,500 lb | 2,500-4,500 lb | 250-675 lb |
Planning ranges only. Exact payload depends on the specific vehicle, trim, options, passengers, cargo, accessories, hitch hardware, and tongue or pin weight.
GVWR
Maximum loaded weight of one vehicle. Useful for payload and loaded vehicle checks.
GCWR
Maximum loaded combined weight of tow vehicle and trailer. Required for real towing capacity.
Payload
Weight carried by the tow vehicle, including passengers, cargo, hitch gear, and tongue weight.