You must subtract your hitch load from the Cargo Weight Rating (CWR) for your vehicle. The CWR is the maximum weight of the load your vehicle can carry. The CWR does not include the weight of the people inside, but you can figure about 150 lbs (68 kg) for each seating position. The total cargo load must not be more than the vehicle's CWR. Make sure to weigh your vehicle with your trailer attached, so that you won't go over the GVWR or the GAWR.

You'll get the best performance if you spread out the weight of your load the right way, and if you choose the correct hitch and trailer brakes.

For more information, see Towing a Trailer later in this section.