Trailer Hitches and Towing: Understanding the Basics

From boats and construction equipment to horses and RVs, there’s a growing number of reasons that people routinely resort to towing, and the right trailer hitch is a vital component for enhancing the utility and safety of this practice.

Here, we’ll cover some trailer-hitch basics, including the different types of hitches available and the weight each can tow. We’ll help you choose the right hitch for your vehicle and cover frequently asked questions about ball-hitch systems, U-bolt mounts, and more. 

What is a trailer hitch and why do you need it? 

A trailer hitch is the primary component that allows you to hook a trailer to your vehicle; it’s the core connection between your truck or car and your trailer, and it’s made sturdy to ensure trailer stability and safety.  

While hitch-free towing is possible, it’s rarely recommended. You can damage your vehicle’s transmission and chassis without a hitch when attempting to pull a trailer. The trailer load can become unbalanced without a hitch, depriving you of the ability to brake or maneuver safely and putting you at risk for accidents and legal fines.  

Types of trailer hitches

To accommodate an abundance of vehicle makes/models and peoples’ varying use of trailers, there are several types of hitches available. The most popular type is divided into five distinct classes:

• Receiver hitches – Mounted directly to the frame of your vehicle, this strong metal device serves as a solid attachment point for a wide variety of trailers and comes in five distinct classes:
  • Class I – Rated for up to 2,000 lbs. gross trailer weight (GTW), Class I hitches are great for light-duty towing (e.g., bike racks and small trailers). Vehicles that commonly use Class I hitches are compact cars, sedans, crossovers and some minivans. 
  • Class II – Rated for up to 3,500 lbs. GTW, Class II hitches are commonly used for single-axel utility trailers (e.g., small boat trailers, pop-up campers, etc.) Class II hitches are often found on midsized cars, minivans, small pickup trucks and some midsized SUVs. 
  • Class III – The most common class of hitches, known for their wide range of weight capacities (3,500 lbs. GTW – 8,000 lbs. GTW), a Class III trailer hitch will afford you the flexibility to tow everything from campers and utility trailers to single-animal livestock trailers and ATVs. Full-sized pickup trucks, vans and SUVs often use Class III hitches (with a 2-inch receiver).
  • Class IV – Best for heavy-duty towing of up to 10,000 lbs., Class IV hitches are commonly used on full-sized pickup trucks, vans and SUVs to pull large boats, RVs and commercial heavy equipment.
  • Class V- A class V trailer hitch is primarily used commercially and can tow 20,000 lbs. (e.g., full-sized livestock trailers and luxury RVs). Chassis cab trucks, dually trucks and heavy-duty pickups (full ton and 3/4 ton) are among the few vehicle types that use this kind of hitch. 

• Fifth-wheel hitches—Used for the heavy-duty towing of RVs and large trailers, fifth-wheel hitches mount directly to the truck's bed for added stability. 
• Gooseneck Hitches—Used primarily for commercial or professional agriculture purposes, gooseneck hitches allow for a sharp turning radius and can carry substantial weight capacity. They also mount directly to the truck's bed. 
• Ball Hitch Systems - Versatile and commonly used to pull light to medium loads, ball hitch systems use a ball-shaped attachment to connect a trailer to a tow vehicle, allowing the trailer to pivot. (See our FAQs below for more detail on truck ball hitches (ball mounts) and U-bolt ball mounts).

Trailer hitch FAQs

Can a trailer be attached to a car?

As mentioned, trailer hitches (Class 1 and Class 2) allow you to attach a light-duty trailer to a car. Even with the right hitch, ensure the trailer's combined weight and cargo do not exceed your car’s towing capacity. 

What is a truck ball hitch, and do I need one?

Also referred to as a ball mount, a truck ball hitch is a receiver-hitch accessory that works with your (square-tube) receiver to provide a hitch connection for your trailer. You cannot tow a trailer safely without a truck ball hitch that's properly installed. The ball mount prevents your trailer from swaying and protects your vehicle’s frame from damage.  

How is a U-bolt ball mount different from a ball mount?

A standard ball mount (or truck ball hitch) already has a trailer ball attached and is ready to use via clip and pin. A U-bolt mount attaches to a trailer hitch receiver via U-bolt and is better for securing heavier loads. 

Are trailer hooks and trailer hitches the same thing?

While some people use the terms trailer hitch and trailer hook interchangeably, they are different components used for towing. A trailer hitch is the main receiver system on a vehicle for attaching a trailer. A trailer hook (a tow hook) is a smaller loop or eyelet-shaped point for attaching things like safety chains or recovery straps. 

How do you install a trailer hitch?

Every vehicle’s owner’s manual should provide specific guidance for trailer hitch installation. You’ll almost always need a ratchet or socket set, drill and wrench to get started, but additional items like a wire brush, safety glasses, gloves and penetrant spray are helpful. Some people may feel comfortable tackling the job independently, provided they have the tools and equipment to safely complete the steps outlined in their owner’s manual. However, since professionals have the jacks needed to elevate vehicles for easier hitch installation, many people hire an auto tech or mechanic. Be aware that the cost of trailer hitch installation does not include the hitch itself. 

How much does a trailer hitch cost?

Like many things, the price of a trailer hitch can vary widely; expect anything from $100-$1,300. The type of hitch you choose, the materials it’s made of, and the ease or complexity of the installation process can all affect cost. U-Haul, a leading installer of trailer hitches and hitch accessories, reminds us that trailer hitches should be viewed as an investment. Not only do they enhance your vehicle’s space and utility capabilities, but they can also increase resale value.