Owning and using a caravan requires you to have at least a little technical know-how, especially when it comes to safety parameters. If you’ve just purchased your first caravan, the plethora of technical terms and prerequisites can get rather overwhelming. The term ‘caravan ball weight’ (or ‘tongue weight’ / ‘tow ball weight’) is probably something you’ve been coming across frequently. So what is it exactly, and how (and why) should you be measuring it?
Understanding Your Caravan’s Ball Weight
The tow ball serves as the tool with your caravan can be hitched to your towing vehicle. This tool is affixed to the chassis of the towing vehicle, and accepts a towing hitch which is attached to the caravan. Now, the tow ball would need to accommodate the specific size (and weight) of your loaded caravan. Which is why your caravan’s ball weight is directly dependent on the weight of the caravan loaded at full capacity. This includes the tare weight (weight of the body of the caravan alone), plus its payload (furniture, accessories, equipment, and anything else that you’re carrying in it). As a thumb rule, your caravan’s ball weight is about 8-10% of this total weight.
Measuring Your Caravan’s Ball Weight
Understanding your caravan’s ball weight is essential for safe and stable towing. If the ball weight is too light or too heavy, it can lead to swaying, uneven weight distribution, and increased wear on your tow vehicle. Thankfully, there are a couple of reliable ways to measure this figure—either professionally or at home.
Option 1: Visit a Public Weighbridge
One of the most accurate methods to measure your caravan's ball weight is by visiting a public weighbridge. This is a great option if you're looking to verify your setup before a big trip or want to check your van when fully loaded. Some weighbridges offer full vehicle reports, including axle and ball weights.
To find a weighbridge near you, visit this handy tool for locating certified public weighbridges across Australia.
Option 2: Use a Ball Weight Measuring Scale
If you prefer to check your caravan’s ball weight at home, a dedicated ball weight scale is a simple and effective solution. These portable devices are designed to give you an accurate reading in minutes, making them ideal for routine checks or trip preparation.
A typical ball weight scale looks like a robust metal cylinder with a wide base and a spring-loaded gauge. To use it:
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Unhitch your caravan from your tow vehicle.
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Place the scale directly under the caravan’s coupling.
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Lower the coupling onto the scale (just like you would when hitching up).
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Read the displayed ball weight measurement from the dial or digital display.
Most caravan ball weight scales are rated for up to 350kg, which is more than sufficient for most RVs and camper trailers.
By regularly checking your caravan’s ball weight, you’ll improve your towing performance, reduce safety risks, and stay compliant with Australian road regulations.
Important Considerations
Your caravan’s ball weight should always be less than the towbar weight listed in your towing vehicle’s manual. Failing this, the rear axle of your towing vehicle can be pushed too far down once the caravan is hitched. This will in turn lift up the front axle and severely compromise the performance of your towing vehicle. In order to retain control over braking and steering on rough roads, check your caravan’s ball weight carefully and ensure that you do not overload your caravan. At the same time, it is also important to understand that a certain minimum weight will be required in order to prevent your caravan from swaying excessively. A weight distribution hitch takes care of both situations and is a good way to manage the caravan’s weight better.
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
