Trailer Length definition

This is a prime example of the difference in measurement between 5ers and trailers and how the truth is stretched a bit by mfgr's.
The actual measurement of a trailer is from end of hitch to rear bumper. Usually, you have to deduct at least 3 feet to get to useable space. Whereas a 5er is measured from the front cap to the rear bumper, and since there is no hitch protruding, no deduction.
I used to hate it when looking at trailers because they would include the hitch in the measurement of useable space, when in fact it is not.
I usually not how long they say it is, and deduct 3' and go from there.

My 1997 Jayco TT was a 24fb and measured 22 ft of living space. My 2000 Coachmen 285 does measure just about 28 1/2 feet of living space. An RV dealer said that years ago it seemed like they over stated and made you think it was bigger yet now days they seemed to do it the other way so a rig doesn't sound so big to pull yet is big when you walk in. He said some models make no sense at all. I have never checked enough models to prove his point.

The length is the actual length of the trailer, bumper to hitch. Model numbers do NOT represent box size. In fact hardly any maker post measurements of the box because it doesn't matter. Campsite length is the biggest factor in making reservations. You want to make sure your camper will fit the entire camper, as the box can't be removed off of the frame. :)

Tongue lengths are usually 3.5' long so you can get a rough guestimate of the box size that way but measuring yourself is the best if you NEED to know the box size.

When people refer to camper size, it's the full bumper to hitch length. That's the only measurement that matters for fitting your RV in storage, your driveway or the campsite.

There is no definition. Each manufacturer measures differently, and model numbers rarely mean a thing when it comes to length. The best way to know your length is to measure it yourself.

This is something I have always noticed a difference in.

Our 26BKS is a 26' Box, and 29' tongue to bumper... So is it a 26' or 29'??

If you think about a cargo trailer a 7x16' trailer has a 7x16' box and is closer to 20' overall but called a 16'.

Then look at campsite reservations, they want total length.

To me a TT needs to be talked about in it's total length, but someone may think differently.

Good question.

Great question, been wondering this myself.

FWIW, our trailer is a "2300" and the box seems to measure about 23 feet. With the rest of the trailer and tongue on there its 26 1/2 feet. I think every campsite we have stayed in thus far (4 in total ranging from tennessee, ohio and michigan) have been designated for 25 foot trailers.

Such a rule breaker I am...lol.