[A/S] hitch weight calculations

["claudette beaulieu" <cjbeau@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I'm wondering if I'm calculating the range of hitch weights correctly. 
If I understand the formula, it should be 10-15% of the trailer weight. 
  Is that max weight or actual weight?  I realize one should weigh the 
trailer, but if you're in the market for one and you want to be sure 
your potential tow vehicle will work, do you assume the max being 10-15% 
of trailer GVWR?

In reading the fine print of the very nice tow guide put out by Ford, I 
realized I may not want the full size van that I thought I had settled 
on -- its hitch limit is 1,000 pounds.  I've narrowed my choice to a 25 
or 28 foot new Classic or International, which at 15% of GVWR could 
reach about 1200 pounds hitch weight.

What if hitch weight exceeds 15%?  I'm wondering because the 25 foot 
classic is close to 15%, unloaded, according to Airstream's brochure. So 
I'm thinking that loaded it might in reality run higher.  If your tow 
vehicle's rear axle can handle the weight, is that OK?  Or do you need 
to pack all your heavy goods towards the back of the trailer to 
distribute the weight better?

Sorry for asking such newbie questions, but after spending lots of money 
I'd hate to find out I'd made a bad choice.  Thanks for any advice you 
can give...

Claudette