RV Basics : Towing and Weight Terminology

When it comes to RV's most people seem to assume that most terms are understood. One area that is ripe for misunderstanding is the simple terms around weight. I thought I would write a short article with a list about the different terms.

• GVWR - (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) - maximum permissible weight of the fully loaded RV.
• GAWR - (Gross Axle Weight Rating) - the allowable weight that can be safely supported by each axle.
• Tongue Weight - The weight of the tongue as it bears down on the hitch of the towing vehicle.
• UVW - (Unloaded Vehicle Weight) the weight of the trailer as manufactured at the factory. It includes all weight at the trailer axless and the tongue. It also included generator fuels.
• CCC - (Cargo Carrying Capacity) - the maximum allowable weight less water weight and the weight of the vehicle. 
• Water weight - weight of water in fresh, grey and black water tanks. One gallon of water weighs around 8 pounds.

Formulas :

• GVWR = GAWR + Tongue Weight
• CCC = GVWR - UVW - Water Weight

Tip(s):

• It is good practice to empty your water tanks prior to travel. We will probably fill our black water tank about 1/3 full though to "slosh-clean" the tank a little when we move Puma.