Most tow hitch installations are pretty straightforward, which is why U-Haul, Pep Boys, or Amazon will work for most jobs. Hitches fall into five classes (I–V) based on towing capacity. The greater the weight capacity, the higher the class.
For example, class I hitches can tow only small trailers (up to 2,000 pounds), while class V hitches have 10,000- to 20,000-pound capacities and can tow things like large campers and heavy construction equipment.
A few factors complicate tow installation: the make and model of your car, the amount of weight you’re planning to tow, and whether your vehicle is compatible with standard hitches.
We won’t get too in the weeds about each tow hitch type, but know that if your installation is on the complicated side, it might take more work to find an auto mechanic or hitch installer who can help (and who is familiar with equipment like wheel hinges and goosenecks, for example).
FAQs
We recommend U-Haul as the best trailer hitch installation service. U-Haul is available in all 50 states, and many locations offer same-day walk-in service.
Who make the best trailer hitch? ›
Best Trailer Hitches For 2024
- CURT 45154: Best Value.
- CURT 48004 Pintle Hook Hitch: Best Heavy-Duty.
- Andersen Hitches Aluminum Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection: Best For Hauling Large Trailers.
- Reese 7031400 Tri-Ball Mount with Hook: Best For Off-Roaders.
- EZ Travel Distribution Tow Hitch Receiver: Best For Bikes Or Cargo.
When it comes to shipping vehicles, trailer hitches alone cost from $120 to $475. The average cost to install a trailer hitch ranges from $175 to about $375 for class 1 to 4 hitches. The total cost of installing a trailer hitch is $300 to $850. A fifth wheel hitch alone costs $1,200, on average.
Which class of trailer hitch is best suited? ›
Hitch Class Comparison Chart
| Hitch Class | Common Applications | TW Capacity (lbs.) |
|---|
| Class 1 | Cars and crossovers | Up to 200 |
| Class 2 | Cars, crossovers and minivans | Up to 350 |
| Class 3 | Crossovers, vans, SUVs and trucks | Up to 800 |
| Class 4 | Trucks and SUVs | Up to 1,000 |
3 more rowsIf you tend to strap ladders, paddleboards, lumber, kayaks, and other cargo on the top of your vehicle, a trailer hitch may help with stability. Hitch attachments can help anchor and secure your overhead cargo. This installation can protect your belongings and help give you peace of mind on the road.
What is the strongest trailer hitch? ›
The SuperHitch Magnum is designed to tow an incredible 30,000 pounds and allows for 3,000 pounds tongue weight when used with weight distribution. This MacDaddy among our SuperHitch Outlaw Series is the highest rated receiver hitch in the industry.
Is a Class 3 or 4 hitch better? ›
The main difference between a Class III hitch and a Class IV hitch is the capacities they set for the hitches. Class III hitches are rated for up to 6,000 lbs GTW with 600 lbs TW whereas a Class IV is rated for up to 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,000 TW. For more info on the hitch classifications check out the link I attached.
How long does it take to install a trailer hitch? ›
Hitch installation can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours or more, depending on the level of expertise of the installer, the tools being used, the condition of the vehicle and so on.
Can I install a trailer hitch myself? ›
You may be surprised to learn that you can install a trailer hitch yourself, but it is a vehicle modification that many backyard mechanics can tackle. Keep in mind that there are several different types of towing hitch, including receiver, gooseneck, pintle, and weight distribution hitches.
Is installing a hitch difficult? ›
With the right tools and expertise, installing a trailer hitch can be a straightforward process: First, your mechanic will clear rust and debris off the mounting frame at the back of your vehicle. Next, they use professional-grade tools to attach a compatible trailer hitch to your vehicle's frame.
What is the most common size trailer hitch ball? The most common size trailer hitch ball is the 2-inch diameter ball. The 2-inch ball is used on a variety of popular trailers, such as boat trailers, utility trailers and campers.
How do I know what hitch to buy? ›
There are two measurements to consider: gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW). The GTW is the total weight of your trailer. The TW is the weight of the trailer, measured at the tongue or coupling point. The ball hitch you purchase must exceed the GTW and TW.
Which type of hitch has the greatest rated load? ›
Slings have the largest Work Load Limit when used in a basket hitch. The vertical hitch Work Load Limit is 50% of the basket hitch. The synthetic choker hitch Work Load Limit is a maximum of 80% of the vertical hitch Work Load Limit.
What is the difference between a tow hitch and a trailer hitch? ›
A tow hitch is simply another name for a trailer hitch. It is a hitch used for towing a trailer. Usually, tow hitch refers specifically to a receiver hitch. However, a 5th wheel hitch, gooseneck hitch and other hitches may be called tow hitches.
Is factory tow package better than aftermarket? ›
Some aftermarket tow hitches are better and stronger than factory-installed ones, which makes them a good option for towing extremely heavy loads. Also, an aftermarket tow package tends to be more basic than a factory tow package. Often, it only comes with a tow hitch and electrical wiring for the trailer lights.
Is it better to have trailer hitch high or low? ›
When towing a travel trailer, it's advisable to keep it level for several important reasons. A level travel trailer enhances stability during towing by evenly distributing its weight across the axles, reducing the risk of swaying or fishtailing while on the road.
Are Curt hitches any good? ›
Solid, Durable, Easy to use! After researching multiple brands and types of hitches similar to this one, I decided on the CURT hitch for the price and features needed for my towing. Curt does offer this channel type mount in 2" and 2-1/2" shank, and multiple drop measurements.
What is the most commonly used hitch? ›
Rear Mount Receiver Hitches
Traditional receiver hitches are the most commonly used type and are available for most types of vehicles, both large and small.
