Ten Towing Terms (Acronyms) You Need to Know
There are many things to consider when hitching your trailer to your tow vehicle. The following are some common trailer terms to be aware of when selecting a tow vehicle or purchasing a travel trailer.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
Maximum weight allowed that a single axle can support. Do not exceed the gross axle weight rating listed on the trailer and tow vehicle certification label. It is measured on the tires and includes the weight of the axle, tires, wheels and brakes. Many problems can occur if this weight is exceeded; The tires may not be able to support the weight, possibly resulting in a blowout situation, the steering of the vehicle may become less responsive, and the brakes may not be effective. The GAWR is listed on a data plate that is typically located on the exterior near the front of the unit, or in some cases, could be inside a cabinet door inside the trailer.
GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)
How much does a vehicle really weigh? Not to be confused with GVWR. The GVW should never exceed the GVWR. Trailer weight is not considered part of GVW, but tongue weight is part of GVW.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
A weight limit set by a manufacturer for a specific vehicle is the total weight that the vehicle is designed to carry. The GVWR is listed on a data plate usually affixed to the inside of the driver’s door frame and is equal to or greater than UVW plus NCC. There are a few things that can go wrong if you exceed the GVWR; The suspension may become ineffective or even break due to the added stress on the tires, the brakes may not be able to stop the car effectively due to the excessive weight being pulled by the tow vehicle.
GTWR (Gross Trailer Weight Rating)
The maximum weight of the trailer. This weight is found on a metal tag on the trailer frame and is based on the allowable weight of the trailer and cargo.
SCWR (Sleeping Weight Rating)
Weight measurement provided by the manufacturer, determined by multiplying 154 lbs. by the number of sleeping capacities in a unit (3 beds X 154 lbs. = 462 lbs.).
CCC (Cargo Transport Capacity)
Weight that can be safely added without exceeding the GVWR of a vehicle or trailer. It is a weight limit and must not exceed the manufacturer’s specifications. Here’s how you can calculate CCC: GVWR – UVW – SCWR – Propane Fuel (4.2 lbs/gallon) – Fresh Water Weight (8.3 lbs/gallon) = CCC. If you are unsure of a vehicle’s ccc, ask the dealer or seller for a certified weight sheet.
NCC (net carrying capacity)
NCC is being replaced by CCC (see above) on new RVs. NCC is equal to or less than GVWR minus UVW.
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)
Gross Combined Weight Rating. Total weight of the tow vehicle, trailer, all fluids, trailer contents, and vehicle and passengers.
UVW (Unladen Vehicle Weight)
Weight does not include passengers, cargo, fresh water, LP gas, or dealer-installed accessories. It is usually found inside a cabinet.
TWL/TLR/VLR (Tongue Weight Load/Tongue Load Rating/Vertical Load Rating)
Amount of trailer weight pressing on the trailer hitch. Too much tongue weight can cause not enough weight on the front wheels of the tow vehicle, too little weight can cause the trailer to sway. A weight distribution hitch will solve this problem by transferring the weight to the front of the tow vehicle’s axle. Look closely at the manufacturer’s trailer tow ball steel strength specifications before purchasing one or attaching your tow dolly to it.
