Know your numbers before you tow.
Payload, loaded trailer weight, CAT Scale math, weight distribution, tires, power and trip cost — organized around the questions tow vehicle and RV owners actually need to answer.
Run the pre-tow checklist
A repeatable 18-point check for weights, hitch connections, tires, brakes, lights, cargo and departure readiness.
Pre-Tow Safety Checklist
Check off each item on your phone, save progress on this device, or print a copy for the truck.
Rig Check
Compare the major truck, trailer, hitch and axle limits together before towing.
Verify at the Scale
Use real CAT Scale measurements to check loaded weights and weight-distribution setup.
Start with the load
Understand what the truck and trailer are actually carrying before moving on to setup adjustments.
Rig Check
Check payload, tow rating, GVWR, GCWR, hitch and axle limits together.
Payload Calculator
Estimate payload remaining after people, cargo, hitch and tongue weight.
Loaded Trailer Weight
Build a loaded weight from dry weight, water, propane and gear.
Fifth-Wheel Pin Weight
Estimate pin load and its effect on truck payload.
Combined Weight / GCWR
Compare estimated combined loaded weight with your entered GCWR.
Trailer Tire Load
Estimate load per tire versus the tire rating you enter.
Water & Cargo Weight
See how water and common cargo add to trailer weight.
Dial in the combination
Use real scale measurements where possible and verify the exact ratings for your equipment.
Plan the trip
Useful secondary tools for camping power and towing operating cost.
Understand the numbers
Practical explanations that connect towing ratings and real loaded weights to the TowAtlas tools.
Towing Capacity vs Payload
Why being under max tow rating does not automatically mean the truck is within every limit.
Tongue Weight vs Payload
See how hitch load consumes truck payload and why loaded tongue weight matters.
How to Read a CAT Scale Ticket
Understand steer, drive and trailer axle weights and what to compare them against.
How Much Does RV Water Weigh?
Convert tank gallons to pounds and see how water affects loaded trailer weight.
GVWR vs GCWR
Understand the single-vehicle and combined-weight ratings and why both must be checked.
How to Calculate Loaded Trailer Weight
Build a realistic towing weight from dry weight, water, propane, batteries and cargo.
Fifth-Wheel Pin Weight Explained
See how loaded pin weight affects truck payload and rear axle load.
How Much Payload Does a Family Use?
A practical example showing how passengers, cargo, hitch hardware and trailer load add up.