Getting a hitch on your ride opens up some excellent options for hauling gear on trips, pulling loads for work and hobbies or transporting vehicles like RVs, motorcycles, cars, and boats. But before you jump on the hitch train, it’s good to know roughly what it might set you back cash-wise.
The price to strap on a hitch depends on a few things, like your car model and what style you pick. Even though costs can vary a tad, we will clue you in on the usual expenses for securely locking a hitch onto your set of wheels so you know how much to install a hitch. So, let’s get started:
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Trailer Hitch?
Depending on the hitch type, brand, and build quality the costs vary. Receiver hitch class (I-V) costs $400 to $1,230 on average including all its parts and labor costs. On the other hand, Gooseneck costs between $680 and $1,280, including all parts and labor costs. Lastly, the 5th wheel trailer hitch is the most expensive of the three, going between $1,100 and $2,180, including all parts and labor costs.
| Trailer Hitch | Hitch Cost | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Total Installation Cost Including Hitch Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Receiver Hitch | $100-$550 | $200-$500 | $100-$180 | $400-$1,230 |
| Gooseneck Hitch | $380-$600 | $200-$500 | $100-$180 | $680-$1,280 |
| 5th Wheel Hitch | $800-$1,500 | $200-$500 | $100-$180 | $1,100-$2,180 |
Trailer Hitch Installation Labor
Labor charges for trailer hitch installation generally range from $100 to $180. To access the frame, the labor involves removing vehicle parts, like the rear bumper or fascia. Additional tasks include positioning and securely bolting the hitch to the vehicle frame.
Wiring is also routed and connected to the trailer lights. Most installers aim to complete the job in 1-3 hours, depending on the vehicle make and model.
Trailer Hitch Accessories/Parts Cost:
You will have to pay for some additional things besides the labor charges and these accessories can range from $200 to $500.
Common items include:
- Ball Mounts - Available in different sizes, these mount inside the receiver hitch and hold the trailer ball. They include fasteners to tighten into the hitch receiver securely.
- Trailer Balls - Features a round ball shape that couples with the trailer’s coupler/tongue. Comes in various shank sizes and weight ratings. The ball needs to match the trailer coupler and hitch setup.
- Hitch Pin - A securing pin, often a cotter or snap pin that passes through the ball mount and receiver hitch to lock the ball mount in place when towing. It prevents the mounted ball from becoming disengaged during travel.
- Weight Distribution Systems - Consists of tow vehicle mounted frames, springs, and bars that help transfer a portion of the tongue weight over to the tow vehicle’s axles for improved handling. Reduces sway and allows for maximum towing capacity to be utilized safely.
- Safety Chains - Strong chains are required by law to couple the trailer to the tow vehicle independent of the hitch. If the hitch fails, the chains preserve a connection and prevent the trailer from detaching from the car entirely.
- Wire Harnesses - Cable assemblies that plug into the tow vehicle wiring harness and electrically connect lights on the trailer (brakes, turn signals, etc) to the corresponding vehicle lighting controls and systems for safe towing at night and in traffic.
Total Installation Cost:
Expect to pay $300 to $680 for the total installation cost that includes labor and accessories but not the cost of the hitch unit itself.
Don’t want to invest all that money, go through technical installation hassle, and then drive the load as well, risking your safety? Call Easy Auto Ship at (888) 687-3243 or use our free quote calculator to book your oversized/overweight load transport today.
Types of Vehicle Hitches And Their Costs:
Now let’s discuss the 7 most commonly used vehicle types that are usually mounted into small sedans to large trucks and should be sufficient for towing everyday loads.
Receiver Trailer Hitch
Receiver hitch comes in five different classes; the costs can range from $100 to $550 depending on the class, its construction material, hauling capacity, and whether it comes with installation hardware.
Class 1: Light-Duty Receiver Trailer Hitch
A class 1 receiver hitch is perfect for hauling lightweight loads behind compact cars or subcompact SUVs. Its capacity to pull is 2,000 lbs gross weight and can be easily installed by directly bolting into the vehicle’s frame or cross-member.
Class 1 costs $100-$150 and usually Honda City, Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mini SUVs like Jeep Renegade and Ford Escape use this hitch. You’ll typically need a receiver, hitch pin/clip to secure it in place, and safety chains.
| Average Cost | $100-150 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 2,000 pounds gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Compact cars, small SUVs/crossovers |
| Installation Complexity | Bolt directly to vehicle frame/cross-member. Minimal specialty tools are required. |
| Required Accessories | Receiver, hitch pin/clip, safety chains |
| Use Case | Light trailers, enclosed cargo trsailers, or small utility trailers |
Class 2: Regular-Duty Receiver Trailer Hitch
You can put the class 2 receiver hitch on mid-size cars to tow heavier trailers of up to 3,500 pounds of gross weight. You can get a class 2 hitch for $150 to $200 and use it for small trucks, compact SUVs or mid-size sedans.
For installation, you may have to weld it to the vehicle’s frame or install using bolt-on screws if the vehicle already has threaded holes. Accessories are the same as class 1. Typical uses are hauling small campers (teardrop or pop-up), boats like small sailboats, and small car haulers.
| Average Cost | $150-200 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Mid-size cars, trucks, SUVs |
| Installation Complexity | It may require drilling holes in the frame and welding the receiver directly to it. Moderate specialty tools. |
| Required Accessories | Receiver, hitch pin/clip, safety chains |
| Use Case | Light to medium-weight trailers |
Class 3: Heavy-Duty Receiver Trailer Hitch
Using class 3 hitch, you can pull 8,000 lbs max weight. Class 3 hitches are good for full size trucks, ex. Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150. Full size SUVs, ex. Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe, and it can even haul some cargo vans like Mercedes Sprinter or Dodge Sprinter.
You’ll usually need to weld the receiver and reinforcement brackets to the vehicle’s frame directly for heavy strength. Make sure to get skilled labor with specialty tools to perform the installation. Expect to pay $200 to $250 for accessories.
| Average Cost | $200-250 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 8,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Full-size trucks, SUVs, vans |
| Installation Complexity | Requires welding Receiver and reinforcement brackets to vehicle frame for strength: specialty tools and welding skills. |
| Required Accessories | Receiver, hitch pin/clip, safety chains |
| Use Case | Larger trailers, potentially with heavier loads like utility trailers and horse trailers. |
Class 4: Super-Heavy-Duty Receiver Trailer Hitch
As the name implies, a class 4 hitch is exceptionally heavy-duty and engineered for immense payloads. It can tow over 10,000 pounds with absolute proficiency and security.
Usually large commercial trucks use class 4 hitch such as International Terrastar, Ford F-350, or Peterbilt 38 to name a few. The installation process can be quite demanding and would require use of specialized tools such as welder, rivet gun and frame drill. Furthermore, you’ll need to add significantly reinforced attachment accessories.
| Average Cost | $350-450 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 10,000 lbs+ gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Large trucks, commercially rated vehicles |
| Installation Complexity | Highly specialized installation requiring frame modifications. Frame drill guns and welding equipment are required. |
| Required Accessories | Heavy-duty receiver, hitch pin/clip, safety chains |
| Use Case: | Huge and heavy trailers, commercial/work applications. |
Class 5: Severe-Duty/Extreme- Heavy-Duty Receiver Trailer Hitch
If you need to pull heavy loads regularly, a Class 5 is what you’ll want behind your truck. We’re talking payloads over 15,000 pounds here!
Only the beefiest heavy-duty rigs, like a Peterbilt 389 or Kenworth W900, are built to handle these mammoth hitches. Installing one takes a real mechanic - you’ll be doing some serious frame reinforcing.
And don’t forget heavy-duty safety chains and reinforced hitch components rated for all that weight. When you need to tow the largest enclosed trailers or heavy equipment on big jobs, look no further than a Class 5.
| Average Cost | $400-550 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 15,000+ lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Extra heavy-duty trucks, semi-trucks |
| Installation Complexity | The greatest level of modification is required, including frame reinforcements. Professional mechanics are required. |
| Required Accessories | Extra heavy-duty receiver, hitch pins, safety chains |
| Use Case | Heaviest enclosed and non-enclosed cargo trailers for commercial/industrial use. |
Gooseneck trailer hitch
We’ve talked about receiver hitches, which work great for many folks. But if you’re dealing with a serious heavyweight, there’s only one way to go - the gooseneck hitch.
You can pull massive weights using these, ranging from 15,000 to 30,000 lbs easily. Huge rigs like sem-trucks and farm tractors have frames built for Gooseneck hitches.
Gooseneck hitches can range from $380 to $600 or more depending on their build quality, manufacturing brand, and whether or not they come with installation hardware.
You’ll also need to do some serious fabrication - cutting, welding, the whole deal. Definitely a job best left to the pros.
And then you gotta couple it with a sturdy gooseneck head and latching mechanism to handle all that force. The payoff is that you can easily pull the largest livestock and horse trailers.
| Average Cost | $380-600+ |
| Weight Capacity | 15,000-30,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Pickup trucks, large trucks, tractors |
| Installation Complexity | Extensive cutting and welding of frame. Professional installation only. |
| Required Accessories | Gooseneck head, latch mechanism |
| Use Case | Heaviest trailers like livestock and horse trailers |
Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch
Fifth-wheel hitches are the setup of choice for big trailers and large pickups. These monster hitches can pull over 16,000 to 20,000 pounds with ease!
5th wheel hitches can range from $800 to $1,500 or more in cost depending on their build quality, manufacturing brand, and whether or not they come with installation hardware.
Only a heavy-duty pickup with an 8’ bed or longer has the strength and layout needed. Installing one takes serious chops, too - major fabrication work like adding a mounting plate and making frame mods. This is definitely an operation that requires a pro.
And you’ll need a heavy-duty kingpin assembly and mounting plate at the rear to couple with. The payoff is you can pull the largest non-commercial trailers or smaller motorhomes with confidence. Some even use them for light commercial towing jobs.
If you’re moving massive trailers regularly, invest in a fifth-wheel hitch. Just make sure to budget extra for the specialized installation!
| Average Cost | $800-1,500+ |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 16,000-20,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Pickup trucks with 8’ beds, semi-trucks |
| Installation Complexity | Highly specialized installation requiring major frame modifications and additions. Professional installation only. |
| Required Accessories | Mounting plate, king pin assembly |
| Use Case | Heaviest non-commercial trailers, small motorhomes, potential commercial/work uses |
Don’t want to invest all that money, go through technical installation hassle, and then drive the load risking your safety? Call Easy Auto Ship at (888) 687-3243 or use our free quote calculator to book your oversized/overweight load transport today.
Some More Common But Important Trailer Hitches:
There are some other kinds of trailer hitches that are used for different purposes and hauling different weight types. Let’s see them as well:
Weight Distribution Hitch
A weight distribution hitch takes your standard receiver hitch setup and kicks it up a notch. As the name says, it helps spread around the trailer’s tongue weight more evenly between the truck and trailer.
This helps maintain control while towing heavier loads. It can handle payloads up to 10,000 pounds! Of course, you’ll need a serious rig to pull that much - think semi-trucks, large diesel pickups, and cargo vans.
Attaching one requires strengthening parts of the vehicle chassis. A mechanic really needs to install it properly. And you’ll still use a heavy-duty drawbar and pin with upgraded safety chains.
The reward is you can confidently tow larger trailers, knowing the weight is distributed evenly. It attaches to your receiver hitch to boost its capabilities. Invest in one if you regularly pull at the maximum tow ratings.
| Average Cost | $500-999 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 10,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Semi-trucks, large trucks |
| Installation Complexity | Specialized installation requiring reinforcement of vehicle frame/chassis. Professional mechanics are required. |
| Required Accessories | Heavy-duty drawbar pin/clip, safety chains |
| Use Case | It attaches to the receiver hitch and is designed to distribute the trailer’s tongue weight across the pulling vehicle and increase trailer control. |
Lunette Eye Hitch
Now we’re talking some serious towing muscles! Lunette eye hitches shine when the weights enter the extreme territory.
These commercial-duty hitches can handle titanic loads upwards of 60,000 pounds. Only specialty workhorses like dump trucks, mixer trucks, and heavy equipment have frames built for that use.
Installing one requires a customized approach, depending on the vehicle. These are specialist jobs best handled by a dealership tech.
You’ll also use a heavy-duty reinforced lunette eye head and locking drawpin. The payoff is you can haul massive trailers for special situations like construction sites, farms, and more.
If towing extreme weights is part of your line of work, invest in a lunette eye hitch setup. Just be ready for a serious financial and mechanical commitment!
| Average Cost | $110-280 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 60,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Specialty vehicles like dump trucks, concrete mixers, cranes |
| Installation Complexity | Highly customized installation process specific to vehicle model. Dealership installation is recommended. |
| Required Accessories | Lunette eye head, heavy duty draw pin |
| Use Case | Application-specific trailers for specialty commercial vehicles for agriculture, construction, and even military use. |
Pintle Hook Hitch
If you need serious towing for industrial jobs, the pintle hook delivers. Rated for up to 20,000 pounds, it’s favored in construction, agriculture, and other commercial fields.
Only the beefiest work trucks and equipment have solid frames to handle one. Installing it requires welding skills to properly mount the hook to the chassis- a heavy truck mechanic can tackle it.
The pintle hook head itself is beefy, and you’ll use a drawpin to securely attach trailers. Common applications include hauling equipment between job sites or moving livestock and machinery on farms.
For towing heavy loads in rough working conditions, pintle hooks prove their durability time and again. Consider the classic pintle hook hitch if towing is part of your business.
| Average Cost | $200-300 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 20,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Semi-trucks, large trucks, construction equipment |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate difficulty requiring welding/mounting to chassis. Heavy truck mechanic required. |
| Required Accessories | Pintle hook head, draw pin/clip |
| Use Case | Commonly used in industrial and agriculture settings |
Bumper Pull Trailer Hitch
This frame-mounted hitch is used for bumper pull trailers and can haul 3,500 to 5,000 lbs of load, moving small SUVs and sedans without breaking a sweat. It’s typically installed by bolting onto below the bumper so no special tools or welding are required.
You’ll use a standard hitch ball or trailer coupler, too. Common applications include small utility trailers or enclosed car trailers for personal use around town.
A bumper hitch delivers simplicity and affordability for light towing on weekends and days off. Just don’t overload it!
| Average Cost | $80-120 |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 3,500-5,000 lbs gross trailer weight |
| Compatible Vehicles | Cars, small SUVs/trucks with proper towing packages |
| Installation Complexity | Simple bolt-on installation below the vehicle bumper |
| Required Accessories | Hitch ball/coupler |
| Use Case | Small enclosed/utility trailers for occasional light-duty personal use |
Don’t want to invest all that money, go through technical installation hassle, and then drive the load as well, risking your safety? Call Easy Auto Ship at (888) 687-3243 or use our free quote calculator to book your oversized/overweight load transport today.
Factors Affecting Trailer Hitch Installation Costs:
Several different variables can impact what you pay for a trailer hitch installation:
1. Trailer Hitch Types
Heavier duty hitches requiring extensive modification like Gooseneck, 5th Wheel, or Class 4/5 cost significantly more to install. This is because specialized skills and tools and time-consuming frame reinforcement work are needed. Lighter trailer hitches involve less labor.
2. Vehicle Compatibility
Compact cars have simpler installations, while trucks/SUVs are harder due to large frames. Commercial vehicles have complex components, adding substantially to the cost. Unique vehicle structures also drive up labor hours spent on installations.
3. Installation Labor
Typical bolt-on receiver hits take 1-3 hours, while more complex jobs requiring welding/fabrication may take 5-10 hours or more of a mechanic’s time. Extra labor means higher hourly wages are billed to the customer.
4. Hitch Accessories
Basic hitches have a lower parts cost than ones bundled with expensive add-ons like industrial strength wiring kits, brake controllers, and distribution bars. Each additional component adds to the total bill.
5. DIY vs. Professional Installation
DIY savings mainly come from avoiding a technician’s labor charges that can reach $100+/hour at auto shops. However, professional installation lowers risks and ensures a durable setup.
6. Location
Installation costs in large cities tend to be 10-30% higher than in rural regions due to increased property and labor expenses for mechanics’ shops. Metropolitan locations have higher operating overhead.
7. Vehicle Make and Model
Due to unique space constraints and engineering, complex vehicle structures from manufacturers like Jeep, Ford, GM, etc., can make installations more difficult and costly.
8. Complexity
Weaving wiring harnesses or modifying vehicle systems increases labor investment and complexity. Simple bolt-on jobs are quicker at 1-3 hours, while more involved setups take 5 hours or longer.
9. Warranty
Extended warranty coverage providing protection for 3-5 years gives customers peace of mind but drives up the installation invoice with additional warranty fees.
Don’t want to invest all that money, go through technical installation hassle, and then drive the load as well, risking your safety? Call Easy Auto Ship at (888) 687-3243 to get free quotes even if you need to move load coast to coast.
How To Save Money on Trailer Hitch Installation
Installing a trailer hitch doesn’t need to break the bank if you employ some savvy strategies.
Consider a DIY install.
For basic hitches like class 1 or 2, research your vehicle make and model installation process online. This video is super useful for that.
You’ll typically have to buy a bolt-on kit with washers and everything and review the instructions carefully before beginning installation.
You can avoid potential safety issues using a professional installer but straightforward bolt-in jobs are not that difficult and can save you a few bucks on the labor charges. However, we still recommend getting an extra set of hands with experience to help you out if you have no prior experience of working on hitches.
Shop around for the best deal.
Get written quotes from at least three reputable local hitch installers within 50 miles detailing base installation rates, expected extra part costs like wiring kits or reinforcement brackets, and hourly labor rates.
Thoroughly compare the complete bottom line totals, then negotiate with shops - you may be able to provide your own purchased parts or bundle packages to reduce the final installation fee. Getting multiple bids can reveal a shop with lower overall pricing.
Opt for a lighter-duty hitch.
If you are hauling lighter loads like under 5,000 lbs, you don’t need any heavy-duty hitch such as class 3 or more as they add expenses for reinforcement work such as frame modifications and bracing welds, pushing your installation costs significantly.
Go for the lightest class rating that can safely pull the total weight of your trailer plus the cargo it will carry. For example, if you’re wondering how much to install a hitch from class 1 or 2, then it is generally more affordable than a class 3, 4, or specialized Gooseneck or fifth wheel setup.
Purchase accessories separately
Rather than paying sometimes inflated retail prices on extras like wiring kits or brake controllers from installers, purchase these add-on parts online through automotive discount chains or specialty websites like etrailer.com at potentially lower prices.
Then, bring your self-supplied components to the installation shop to reduce the total labor fees charged for the job.
Check for coupons and promotions.
Check the social media pages of local auto parts stores and installers and sign up for their email newsletter too to see if they have any promotions going on for hitches such as summer/spring/winter specials with a percentage discount or any coupons for first-time customers.
Always ask customer service if any applicable bundle deals exist when scheduling work to be performed.
DIY Hitch Trailer Installation Tips
Installing certain hitches even if rated for light weights can save some money but you must be careful in installation to avoid any risks when pulling the trailer on road.
| Purchase a step-by-step Guide | Buy an additional instruction manual from the manufacturer for clarity on each process as they usually have methods for different types of hitch installations with diagrams. Or Watch a YouTube Video. |
| Assemble Tools and Parts | Keep all the bolts, washers, bits, ratchets, wrenches etc. with you to minimize interruptions during installation. |
| Review Safety Procedures | Must wear protective glasses and gloves especially when using power equipment or working on the mounting frame under the vehicle. |
Having an assistant for holding parts or extra control over tools makes DIY jobs safer.
Don’t attempt reinforcement welding or other risky procedures without professional skill. Know your mechanical limits.
Example Installation Costs
Typical installation price ranges (parts and labor included) vary significantly based on hitch type:
- Class 1 hitch - $150 to $250
- Class 2 hitch - $200 to $350
- Class 3 hitch - $300 to $500
- Class 4 hitch - $500 to $800
- Fifth wheel hitch - $1,000 to $2,000
The heavy-duty the system, the higher the anticipated cost due to fabrication challenges. You can potentially save $50 to $300 on these average installation costs using the money-saving tactics we’ve discussed above.
Don’t want to invest all that money, go through technical installation hassle, and then drive the load as well, risking your safety? Call Easy Auto Ship at (888) 687-3243 or use our free quote calculator to book your oversized/overweight equipment shipping today.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Trailer Hitch?
A simple class 1 bolt-on receiver hitch typically takes 1-2 hours to install by a pro. Class 3/4 hitches requiring frame mounting can take 4-6 hours. Gooseneck/5th wheel installations involving welding often require 6-8 hours of labor.
| Hitch Type | Average Install Time |
|---|---|
| Class 1 Receiver Hitch | 1-2 hours |
| Class 3/4 Receiver Hitch | 4-6 hours |
| Gooseneck/5th Wheel Hitch | 6-8 hours |
Some more factors can affect how long it may take to install a trailer hitch. Let’s discuss them below:
Vehicle
Compact vehicles can take longer due to constricted engine bays, while unique body designs may prolong installations as mechanics problem-solve fitting challenges.
Installer experience
Seasoned installers completing multiple hitches weekly can finish most jobs 50% faster than DIYers through acquired skills like the efficient use of specialized automotive tools.
DIY vs professional
Mechanic shops benefit from vehicle lifts, pneumatic tools, and additional hands aiding collaboration to expedite the work versus a single self-installer.
Additional parts
Add-ons like brake controls requiring wiring and programming can lengthen installations by 1-2 hours compared to simple hitch/ball combos.
Vehicle access
Removing fascia or front sections requires additional labor to reinstate later and substantially expands installation durations.
Troubleshooting
Addressing clearance issues or modifying rigs as problems arise can prolong installations by 30-90+ minutes, depending on the complexity of repairs/fabrication needed.
Custom upgrades
Major package upgrades, new towing setups, or intensive reinforcement may require half a professional workday or more to complete correctly.
Many things affect how long and how much to install a hitch such as the required accessories, type of vehicle, hitch type, access to the mount location, and method of installation (bolt vs weld).
Can I Install a Trailer Hitch Myself?
Yes, you can install a trailer hitch yourself. However, not all of them are easier to do so. Lower classes like class 1 to 2 are easier due to plug and play installation mechanisms. Class 3-4 are difficult as they might require extra bracing installations and heavier 5th wheel and gooseneck trailer hitches should be handled by professionals only as welding and other techniques are used for them.
| Hitch | DIY Difficulty |
|---|---|
| Class 1-2 Receiver | Generally Easy |
| Class 3-4 Receiver | Moderately Difficult |
| Gooseneck/5th Wheel | Best Left to Pros |
Some Factors To Consider When Taking DIY Hitch Installation Route:
Mechanical Ability
Installations require competency in using tools like wrenches and wire strippers while following step-by-step directions.
Vehicle Access
Tight spaces complicate work - removing body parts yourself simplifies tasks while partners assist in lifting heavy components.
Specialty Tools
Home garages typically lack necessary tools like welders or jack stands, driving up DIY costs.
Risk Tolerance
Weigh rewards of self-installing against risks of welding mistakes or improper wiring potentially harming vehicles.
Time & Patience
Self-installs take longer without automotive shop resources, and patience for troubleshooting issues is vital.
Warranty Protection
Manufacturer warranties may void DIY work - consider the cost of professional installation for warranty coverage.
Help Availability
An assistant’s second set of hands proves indispensable for lifting components and holding tools.
Don’t want to invest all that money, go through technical installation hassle, and then drive the load as well, risking your safety? Call Easy Auto Ship at (888) 687-3243 or use our free quote calculator to book your oversized/overweight load hauling today.
7 Top Tips on Choosing the Right Trailer Hitch for Your Vehicle
You need to understand what you’re towing, total distance, weight and dimensions, trailer type etc. to choose the right trailer hitch. Here’s how:
Consider your towing needs:
Your loaded trailer’s weight and type (cargo, enclosed, 5th Wheel) will determine the proper hitch class. Calculate tongue weight by weighing the loaded trailer without the tow vehicle attached.
| Hitch Class | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| Class I | Less than 2,000 lbs gross trailer weight, up to 200 lbs tongue weight |
| Class II | Up to 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight and nearly 350 lbs tongue weight |
| Class III | Up to 5,000 lbs gross trailer weight, up to 350-800 lbs tongue weight |
| Class IV | Up to 8,000 lbs gross weight and up to 1,000 lbs tongue weight |
| Class V | Over 15,000 lbs gross trailer weight, often for travel trailers. Tongue weight ranges from 1,200 to 1,500+ lbs. |
| Gooseneck | Towing weight ranges from 15,000 to 30,000 pounds for gross trailer weight and from 2,000 to 4,500 pounds for tongue weight. |
| 5th Wheel | Can tow up to 20,000 gross trailer weight with a tongue weight of up to 3,000 lbs. |
Usually Classes I to III are used to hitch smaller trailers under 8,000 lbs while Class IV is perfect for hitching 8,000 to 10,000 lbs. If you’re moving a car, you’ll be fine with Class III but for moving heavier vehicles like Ford F-450, Ram 3500 or highly modified F-350 or Ram 2500, then the gross weight can exceed 8,000 lbs and for that you’ll need a Class IV hitch. Both Class III and IV are the most popularly used and dominate the market due to their versatility.
For moving loads over 10,000 lbs like RVs or heavy boats, you’ll need a Class V hitch that can haul over 15,000 lbs. If the weights exceed 15,000 lbs and go up to 30,000 lbs, you can use the 5th wheel or gooseneck trailer hitches.
Know your vehicle’s towing capacity:
Check your tow hitch brand and read its manual either the one that came with it or search online to find:
- GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating that includes trailer and vehicle weight)
- Towing capacity
- Rated tongue weight
Also check vehicle dimensions because extra tall or long loads might not be legal to transport or they may not even fit the trailer.
Consider Weight Distribution
The trailer can sway when hauling heavier loads due to shifts in the vehicle’s center of gravity. You need to ensure a leveling or weight distribution hitch is installed to transfer up to 1,000 lbs of torque weight to the rear axle of the vehicle. This helps maintain control when turning or braking.
Match hitch/vehicle properly:
Class I hitches simply bolt onto light-duty vehicles. Larger trailers are better suited to Gooseneck or 5th wheel hitches, allowing superior maneuverability compared to bumper pulls. Frequent towing merits professional installation for optimal safety and performance.
Choose electrical compatibility:
Wiring kits designed for your hitch/vehicle tap into existing lighting to power turn signals and trailer brakes, enabling safe towing at night. Match your plug’s 4,5,6 or 7 way trailer end plugs to the vehicle. Flat-towed trailers may require additional modifications. There are different types of trailer connectors, make sure to match the right one with your vehicle.
Chart Credit: Hitchweb
Consult manuals for proper installation:
Carefully following torque specifications on hardware ensure bolts and bolting surfaces maintain structural integrity over time. Improper hitch angle can cause trailer sway or alignment issues. The hitch weight rating must match or exceed your towing needs.
Factor in other accessories:
Include weight distribution systems, brake controllers, and other components suited for your specific hitch/vehicle combination. Using professional hitch installation helps achieve optimal safety and performance when towing.
Selecting a proper hitch starts with knowing your towing capacity and the trailer’s requirements. Add in the potential cost increases for wiring kits, weight distribution, bolts, expert installation and you’ll know which hitch is right for you and how much it might cost to buy and install.
You Can Avoid Hitching Altogether & Hire Easy Auto Ship to Haul Your Loads:
Why go through all of the hassle of installing and towing bulky and heavy vehicles and risking your vehicle and life during the process when an easier and affordable method is available.
Professional hauling services like Easy Auto Ship can easily move your vehicles and heavy or oversized equipment on flatbed trailers for both short and long distance moves.
Installing a trailer hitch can cost anywhere from around $100 to $2,180, depending on your vehicle, load, and hitch type. But for just one or a small number of moves, hiring a vehicle shipper or heavy equipment transport will usually be cheaper in the end.
Towing with trailers requires some specialized skills, too, since your ride will handle differently with all that extra weight. Our expert carriers can easily haul anything big or small ensuring you can sit back while your vehicle or heavy equipment is hauled and delivered safely and fully intact. Interested? Dial (888) 687-3243 or use our free shipping quote calculator to get a free, no-obligation auto transport quote today!
