How to Read a CAT Scale Ticket for Towing

A CAT Scale ticket gives you real axle weights. The key is knowing what each line represents and comparing the right weighings and ratings.

The three weight lines

Steer axle is the tow vehicle's front axle. Drive axle is the tow vehicle's rear axle. Trailer axle is the combined weight carried by the trailer axle group. Add the three lines to get the gross weight of the combination on the scale.

Why one ticket may not tell the whole story

One loaded, hitched weighing shows actual axle loads, which is extremely useful for checking axle and combined weights. To understand tongue weight or the effect of a weight-distribution hitch more precisely, multiple weighings can be helpful.

A useful three-weigh approach

One common approach is to record the combination with the weight-distribution system engaged, then reweigh with the spring bars disengaged while remaining hitched, and finally weigh the tow vehicle without the trailer. Those measurements let you compare how load moves between the front axle, rear axle and trailer axles.

What to compare the ticket against

Compare measured steer and drive axle loads with the vehicle's axle ratings, the tow vehicle weight with GVWR, the trailer axle/load information with the trailer's ratings, and the full combination with GCWR when a GCWR applies. A passing gross total does not automatically mean every axle is within its own limit.

Weigh the way you actually travel

For the most useful result, weigh with normal passengers, fuel, propane, water and cargo loaded as they would be for a trip. A lightly loaded scale ticket may not represent your real towing condition.

Frequently asked questions