---
title: "Towing capacity checker"
canonical: https://towingdad.shop/calculators/towing-capacity-checker/
lang: en
---

# Your real towing capacity
GCWR (lb) 

Curb weight (lb) 

Passengers (lb) 

Cargo and accessories (lb) 

 

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

## The formula
capacity = GCWR − (curb weight + passengers + cargo)

## Worked example
A 12,000 lb GCWR with a 5,550 lb loaded vehicle leaves 6,450 lb.

## Assumptions
GVWR and GCWR are defined at 49 CFR § 571.3. Towing capacity is GCWR minus the fully loaded tow vehicle — not a standalone number off a brochure. Passengers, fuel, cargo and the hitch itself all come off before anything is attached.

## Reference table
| GCWR | Loaded vehicle | Available 

| 12,000 | 5,550 | 6,450 

| 14,000 | 6,200 | 7,800 

| 16,000 | 7,000 | 9,000 

| 20,000 | 8,500 | 11,500 

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

Sources (2)- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations — [49 CFR § 571.3 — Definitions (GVWR, GCWR)](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/section-571.3) (accessed 2026-08-17) T1
- 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