RV Tow Ratings & Towing Capacity

Embarking on a journey with a towable camper, such as travel trailers, fifth wheels, or select toy haulers, begins with understanding the connection between your RV and tow vehicle. These RVs are designed for flexibility, allowing you to hitch up to an SUV, minivan, or, for heavier models, a pickup truck with a gooseneck hitch. Towable RVs are not only more affordable due to the absence of engine parts but also boast a better resale value and a larger selection of options to suit your specific needs. By learning about tow ratings at Pete's RV Center, you ensure that your choice not only fits your lifestyle but is also a safe and compatible match for your towing vehicle, guaranteeing countless stress-free excursions.

Understanding RV Tow Ratings

Navigating the specifics of RV towing can transform your travel experience. Pete's RV Center in Schererville, IN, specializes in demystifying tow ratings and towing capacities to align your vehicle with the ideal RV. We simplify complex terms like Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) and Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), ensuring they become part of your everyday vocabulary. Our comprehensive resources, including informative videos and detailed imagery, make understanding weight information tags and load distribution straightforward. With just a bit of simple math, you'll confidently match your truck, SUV, or crossover with the perfect travel trailer or fifth wheel.

Trust the experts at Pete's RV Center to empower you with the knowledge for a safe and enjoyable journey. Read on and visit us to explore the possibilities and secure your road-ready RV pairing.

Vehicle Weight Terms

Getting an accurate tow rating requires some research on your vehicle and the travel trailer or fifth wheel you are looking to buy. Going this route versus an approximation helps ensure the safety of your family and the mechanical health of your vehicle. Here are a few key terms to become familiar with when determining the tow ratings:

CGWR (Combined Gross Weight Rating) - This is the combined gross weight rating. It is the maximum allowable weight your vehicle, with cargo and passengers, and a trailer can weigh. The CGWR can be found labeled on the inside of the driver's side door.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) - The maximum permissible weight of the trailer when fully loaded. It includes the maximum allowable weight at the trailer axle(s) plus the hitch (tongue/pin) weight. The GVWR is typically found labeled in pounds and kilograms on the driver's side towards the front of a trailer.

UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight) - The weight of a trailer as manufactured at the factory. Also known as "dry" or "shipping" weight. It includes all weight at a trailer's axle(s) and hitch.

CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity) - US-Equal is GVWR minus the UVW and LP gas weight (Water is considered a component of cargo). Canada-Equal is GVWR minus the UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight (including the water heater), and full LP gas weight. CCC information can be found labeled on the trailer in the same area as the GVWR.

To be completely accurate, there are several more factors involved when determining tow rating. However, basic logic tells you if CGWR is less than the UVW, and especially the GVWR, it's a sound bet your vehicle is not suited to tow the RV you want to buy.

Along with reviewing your towing vehicle owner's manual, chapter 3 of the Keystone RV Owner's Manual does a nice job explaining load limits and towing considerations. A PDF version of the Keystone RV Owner's Manual is available on our website.

In addition to the Keystone RV Owner's Manual, feel free to contact Pete's RV Center with further questions on tow ratings, towing capacity, and trailer hitches.

Weight values for an RV are found on the inside of the entry door. For older RVs, they are found in a kitchen cabinet.
Weight values for a vehicle are found inside the driver's side door.
Knowing tow ratings and towing capacity helps you choose the right hitch.