When it comes to towing a trailer, many people get confused about the difference between hitch weight and tongue weight.
But Is Hitch Weight the Same as Tongue Weight?
In this article, we will explore the differences between the two terms, and provide tips on how to properly distribute the weight of your trailer.
Is Hitch Weight the Same as Tongue Weight?
Yes, the terms hitch weight and “tongue weight” both describe the amount of weight that is exerted on your tow vehicle when you are towing a trailer.

Hitch weight (also called hitch-weight) is defined as the force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler.
Whereas tongue weight is defined as the downward force exerted on the coupler by the hitch. In other words, the tongue weight is a subset of the hitch weight.
How Do You Calculate The Actual Tongue Weight?
If you have a weight distribution hitch, you can use the tongue weight as a guide for setting up your hitch.
However, it is important to note that the actual amount of tongue weight may differ from this number due to factors such as trailer sway and road irregularities.
To calculate the actual tongue weight, start by using an empty scale (not a calibrated one) to weigh your trailer as evenly as possible on each wheel.
Then, store all of the objects that you typically carry in the trailer, and re-weigh them. Subtract this number from the original weight to calculate the tongue weight.
If you do not have access to an empty scale, you can use a similar method to determine the tongue weight by weighing your trailer and unloading it, then subtracting this number from the total weight of the loaded trailer.
Note that some trailers, such as those that are designed for cargo or livestock hauling rather than passengers, may not have a tongue weight rating.
In these cases, you can use one of the above methods to estimate the amount or consult a professional for assistance.
So if you are using a weight distribution hitch, it is important to make sure that your tongue weight is set properly to avoid trailer sway and other issues.
How Much Tongue Weight Can My Hitch Handle?

The tongue weight capacity of your hitch will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and type of trailer, as well as the overall weight distribution and load.
Generally, lighter trailers with lower tongue weights are easier to handle and can be safely towed by most weight distribution hitches.
However, if you are towing a heavier trailer, with a higher tongue weight, then you may need to use specialty multi-weight distribution hitches or even replace your current hitch entirely.
This is because the maximum capacity of most weight distribution hitches is typically around 10-15% of the total weight of your trailer and tow vehicle combined.
In general, you should always make sure that your hitch is properly rated for the weight of your trailer and that you distribute the tongue weight evenly between your tow vehicle and trailer.
So if you’re wondering how much tongue weight your hitch can handle, the answer really depends on many different factors.
But by doing a little research and knowing the weight of your trailer and tow vehicle, you should be able to select a hitch that will safely accommodate the tongue weight of your trailer.
How Does Tongue Weight Affect Your Vehicle’s Hitch Weight?

Have you ever wondered why one trailer can tow another trailer that weighs the same, but one has a hard time pulling it while the other doesn’t?
The answer is tongue weight.
Tongue weight is the downward force at the front of your RV’s hitch. It must balance on your vehicle’s hitch to provide proper stability and control.
When the tongue weight is too light, the trailer can sway back and forth more easily.
Too much tongue weight puts extra strain on your vehicle’s suspension and tires, making it difficult to steer and control.
Fortunately, there are simple ways to adjust your tongue weight and improve your vehicle’s performance.
For example, you can reduce the amount of cargo in your trailer or increase the amount of water in your tank.
Both will bring down the overall weight on the hitch.
If you’re having trouble towing a trailer because of tongue weight, you may also want to consider adding weight distribution bars.
These attach to your trailer hitch and distribute the weight more evenly across your vehicle’s suspension.
Ultimately, understanding how tongue weight works is key to ensuring that you can safely tow any type of RV.
So if you’re planning a trip with an RV or camper in the near future, make sure you understand this important concept and take steps to manage your tongue weight properly.
What Happens If Tongue Weight Is Too Heavy?

If the tongue weight is too heavy, this can cause problems.
The stress on your hitch will be too much and you risk having to replace it more frequently than normal.
Another problem that may arise when the tongue weight is too heavy is that it can cause the trailer to sway.
All these problems can be avoided by carrying out regular checks on your hitch and tongue weight.
It can make your vehicle more difficult to control when making turns and braking.
This may increase the risk of accidents and other safety issues, so it’s essential to monitor your tongue weight and make adjustments as needed.
If you notice that your tongue weight is too heavy, there are a few steps you can take to solve this issue.
First, check the load in your trailer and remove any unnecessary items that may be adding to the weight.
You can also try shifting your cargo around or redistributing the weight evenly among your trailer.
If this doesn’t work, you may need to install a heavier rated hitch or upgrade to a different vehicle altogether.
Overall, it’s important to stay vigilant when it comes to tongue weight and take action as needed to keep your vehicle and trailer safe on the road.
FAQs on if Hitch Weight is the Same as Tongue Weight
Does A Weight Distribution Hitch Reduce Tongue Weight?
No. Weight Distribution Hitches distribute weight over the axles of both vehicles.
This distributes the load without affecting tongue weight.
Its function is to maintain the tow vehicle’s front-to-rear balance, not to lessen tongue weight.
Can Too Much Tongue Weight Cause Trailer Sway?
Yes. Tongue weight must be between 8-15% of the trailer’s total weight.
If tongue weight exceeds 15%, your vehicle may experience towability issues or become unstable and start to sway on the road.
Is Tongue Weight Included In Dry Weight?
Yes. Tongue weight is included in the dry weight of a trailer.
It’s an important measurement because a properly balanced towing setup requires that the tongue, hitch, and vehicle are all evenly weighted.
Conclusion
After reading this article, you should understand the Hitch Weight and the Tongue Weight concept.
And how they are related to the overall weight distribution of a trailer when it is being towed.