CAT Scale RV Weight Checklist
A certified scale gives better evidence than brochure weights or guesses.
Bring the truck as it will travel: passengers, fuel, cargo, hitch hardware, bed gear, and the loaded trailer.
Weigh the truck before hookup if possible, then weigh the connected rig. The difference helps you understand loaded trailer weight and how much load moved to the truck.
For a truck and travel trailer on a three-platform CAT Scale, the front truck axle normally goes on platform 1, the rear truck axle on platform 2, and the trailer axle group on platform 3.
Do not double-count tongue weight when connected-rig truck axle readings already include weight carried by the truck.
Compare scale readings against payload, GVWR, GCWR, GAWR if available, receiver rating, trailer GVWR, and the loaded trailer estimate.
Which estimates should be replaced by scale readings?
Use in calculator
Use scale tickets to replace rough truck weight, loaded trailer weight, combined weight, and axle readings when available.
Two useful scale passes
- Truck only
- Before hookup Captures the loaded truck with people, fuel, cargo, hitch hardware, and bed gear.
- Connected rig
- After hookup Shows the truck and trailer combination as it travels.
- Double-count guard
- Do not add tongue twice Connected truck axle readings already include weight carried by the truck.
Bring to the scale
- Truck loaded as it will travel
- Trailer loaded as it will travel
- Payload sticker
- Owner manual or towing guide
- Receiver and trailer label numbers