---
title: "Tongue weight calculator"
canonical: https://towingdad.shop/calculators/tongue-weight/
lang: en
---

# Tongue weight
Loaded trailer weight (lb) 

Hitch type ConventionalFifth-wheel / gooseneck

 

This calculator needs JavaScript. The reference table below covers the common cases.

## The formula
tongue = trailer weight × 10–15% (conventional) or × 15–25% (fifth-wheel)

## Worked example
A 5,000 lb conventional trailer needs 500–750 lb on the tongue.

## Assumptions
Tongue weight runs 10–15% of loaded trailer weight for a conventional bumper-pull, and 15–25% for a fifth-wheel or gooseneck. Tongue weight counts against payload, not only against the tow rating.

## Reference table
| Trailer (lb) | Conventional | Fifth-wheel 

| 2,000 | 200–300 | 300–500 

| 5,000 | 500–750 | 750–1,250 

| 8,000 | 800–1,200 | 1,200–2,000 

| 12,000 | 1,200–1,800 | 1,800–3,000 

Always follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Improper towing can cause severe drivetrain damage that is not covered by warranty.

Sources (1)- SAE International — [J2807 — Performance Requirements for Determining Tow-Vehicle Gross Combination Weight Rating](https://www.sae.org/standards/content/j2807_202002/) (accessed 2026-08-17) T2