Towing Capacity, Payload & GCWR Safety Calculator
Perform a comprehensive 4-point towing safety audit. Verify Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), available truck payload, Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), and maximum trailer towing capacity to prevent suspension overloading and brake fade.
Truck Door Jamb Ratings & Wet Weights
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating from driver door sticker
Truck weight with full tank of fuel, empty bed
Gross Combined Weight Rating (Truck + Trailer combined)
Truck In-Cab & Bed Cargo
Driver + all passengers
Tools, cooler, luggage, WDH hitch head (~75 lbs)
Trailer Wet Specifications
Must be deducted from truck payload
4-Point Towing Safety Verdict
All 4 Limits Safe
Safe Towing Configuration
Limiting bottleneck: Truck Payload (350 lbs remaining)
Remaining Truck Payload
+350 lbs Margin
1,550 lbs used of 1,900 lb sticker payload
Remaining Towing Capacity
+2,600 lbs Margin
Trailer: 7,000 lbs vs 9,600 lb rating
Detailed 4-Point Rating Audit
1. Truck GVWR (7,100 lbs):
6,750 lbs actual (95.1% capacity)
2. Combined GCWR (15,500 lbs):
12,900 lbs total rig (83.2% capacity)
3. Max Tow Rating (9,600 lbs):
7,000 lbs trailer (72.9% capacity)
4. Tongue Weight % (TW%):
12.14% (Safe 10%–15% window)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find my truck's true payload capacity?
Check the yellow Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver's side door jamb. It states: "The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXXX lbs." Never rely on online brochures because factory options reduce payload.
Does a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) increase my truck's payload capacity?
No. A WDH redistributes weight between the front and rear axles to level the vehicle, but it does NOT increase the truck's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or legal payload capacity.