How Much Can My Vehicle Tow?

Know Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity

If you’re searching for trailer rentals near me in Sacramento, one of the most important questions to ask before booking is:

Knowing your vehicle’s towing capacity is critical for choosing the right trailer rental in Sacramento, protecting your cargo, and staying safe on city streets and freeways like I-5 and Highway 50.

At Old Sac Rentals, we help homeowners, contractors, and small businesses select the right trailer—whether it’s a 5x10 utility trailer, car hauler, or flatbed trailer—so every rental is safe, legal, and stress-free.

Why Towing Capacity Matters for Trailer Rentals in Sacramento

Towing more than your vehicle is rated for can cause serious problems, including:

• Trailer sway at highway speeds
• Longer stopping distances
• Excessive brake and transmission wear
• Loss of steering control

Choosing the correct Sacramento trailer rental based on your vehicle’s limits keeps you, your cargo, and everyone else on the road safe.

1. Know Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity

Every vehicle has a manufacturer-rated towing capacity. You can find it by checking:

• Your owner’s manual
• The driver-side door sticker
• The manufacturer’s website

⚠️ Never exceed this limit. Even a small overload can lead to unsafe towing conditions.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, our team can help you determine which trailer rental near me fits your vehicle safely.

2. Understanding Weight Ratings (GVWR vs. GTW)

Before renting a trailer in Sacramento, it’s important to understand these key terms:

• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating):
  The maximum weight your vehicle can handle including passengers, cargo, and tongue weight.
• GTW (Gross Trailer Weight):
  The total weight of the trailer plus everything loaded on it.

👉 Your vehicle’s towing capacity must be higher than the trailer’s GTW.

This is especially important when renting:

• A 5x10 utility trailer for moving or hauling
• A car hauler transporting vehicles
• A flatbed trailer carrying equipment or materials

3. Choosing the Right Trailer for Your Vehicle

5x10 Utility Trailer

Ideal for:

• Home moves
• Landscaping debris
• Small equipment

Works well with many SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks.

View The 5x10 Utility Trailer

Car Hauler

Best for:

• Transporting vehicles
• Long-distance hauling

Requires higher towing capacity and a properly rated hitch.

Flatbed Trailer

Great for:

• Construction materials
• Pallets
• Large equipment

Often heavier and requires careful load balance.

4. Hitch Classes and Why They Matter

Trailer hitches are rated by class:

• Class I–II: Light-duty towing and small utility trailers
• Class III–IV: Medium to heavy loads, car haulers, and flatbed trailers

Using the wrong hitch can cause:

• Hitch failure
• Loss of trailer control
• Damage to your vehicle

At Old Sac Rentals, every trailer is clearly labeled with weight limits and recommended hitch classes.

5. Proper Tongue Weight for Safe Towing

Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer places on the hitch.

• Too little = trailer sway
• Too much = poor steering and braking

✅ Ideal tongue weight: 10–15% of the trailer’s total loaded weight

This is especially important for:

• Car haulers
• Flatbed trailers
• Fully loaded 5x10 utility trailers

6. Safe Towing Tips for Sacramento Roads

Even with the right trailer, safe driving is essential:

• Drive slower than normal
• Increase following distance
• Avoid sudden lane changes
• Take wide turns
• Check mirrors often

Sacramento freeways and surface streets demand extra caution when towing.

See How Equipment & Trailer Rentals Work

7. Local Experts You Can Trust

Not sure which trailer rental in Sacramento is right for your vehicle or project? Our experienced team can help you:

• Verify towing limits
• Choose the right trailer
• Ensure proper hookup
• Check safety chains, lights, and load balance

📞 Call Old Sac Rentals at (916) 245-0705 to get expert advice or reserve your trailer today.