How Does Trailer GVWR Relate to Towing Capacity of Vehicle

Published 08/10/2017

Question:

My truck has gooseneck towing capacity of 17,200 My trailer weight is 7200 lbs, trailer GVWR 23,900 MY Load is weighing 14,000 lbs. Will this load be legal for my truck? Please explain

asked by: Rod

Expert Reply:

As long as you stay under the gooseneck towing capacity of your truck, you can safely tow your gooseneck trailer. The 23,900 pound GVWR for the gooseneck trailer refers to the maximum weight the trailer can weigh when it is fully loaded. Since you do not plan on loading it to its full capacity, and the 14,000 pound loaded weight of the trailer falls below your truck's capacity, this will be perfectly safe to do.

I just recommend always being mindful of the trailer's loaded weight. Since it is capable of supporting much more, you will just need to remain considerate of your tow vehicle's capacity when loading your cargo.

As for the legality of towing a trailer with a higher GVWR than what your truck has a capacity for, I recommend talking with a local department of motor vehicles, license bureau and/or state patrol. Towing laws vary from state to state, so while I am not aware of any specific laws regarding this, this will be the only sure way to determine this.

expert reply by: Chris R