Australian Towing Weight Calculator

How to Use the Free Australian Towing Weight Calculator

Towing safely in Australia isn’t just about having the right equipment—it’s about knowing your numbers. Every year, hundreds of drivers face fines or accidents due to incorrect weight calculations. Our free towing weight calculator cuts through the confusion, helping you stay legal and safe on Australian roads. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Start With Your Vehicle’s Basics
Locate your Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) on the compliance plate (usually found in the driver’s door frame). This is your vehicle’s maximum loaded weight. Enter this in the first field. If you’ve added accessories like bull bars or roof racks, include their weight in the payload field.

2. Add Your Trailer Details
For each trailer/caravan, you’ll need two numbers:

• ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass): Maximum loaded weight from the trailer plate

• Ball Weight: Actual downward force on the tow ball when loaded

Most caravans have 8-12% ball weight. Our tool automatically checks if you’re within the safe 10% limit required by most states.

3. Handle Multiple Loads
Towing a boat AND a trailer? Click the “+ Add Another Trailer” button (up to 3). The calculator combines all weights and checks against Australia’s 14,000kg Gross Combination Mass (GCM) limit for light vehicles.

4. Understand Your Results
The color-coded system gives instant feedback:

• Red: Critical errors (exceeded GCM/ball weight limits)

• Green: Safe to tow with total weight

• Progress Bar: Visual weight scale showing how close you are to limits

Why This Matters in Australia
State laws vary but all reference ADR (Australian Design Rules). Victoria requires separate brake systems over 2,000kg ATM. Queensland mandates load distribution checks. Our tool helps cover these basics before deeper compliance checks.

Pro Tips:

• Check weights at a public weighbridge after loading

• Recalculate when adding/removing gear

• For dual-cab utes: Include passengers in payload

• Caravans: 90% of ATM leaves safety margin

Bookmark this calculator on your phone—it works offline once loaded. Share it with fellow campers and tradies. Remember: proper weight distribution prevents swaying accidents on highways like the Bruce or Nullarbor. Stay safe, stay legal, and keep the adventures rolling!