A trailer hitch connects your vehicle to whatever you’re towing — a trailer, boat, camper, you name it. With the right setup, you can haul heavy loads safely and confidently over long distances. Whether it’s weekend projects or epic road trips, a hitch adds serious utility to your vehicle.
5 types of trailer hitches (and what they’re best for)
Not all trailer hitches are created equal. They all help you pull something heavy, but each is designed for different types of loads and vehicles. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Receiver hitch
The most common type. It features a square receiver tube that fits various towing accessories like hitch balls and bike racks. Ideal for daily use — think small trailers, luggage carriers, or light-duty hauling.
- Bumper hitch
Simple, lightweight, and easy to install. It mounts directly to your vehicle’s bumper and works well for light trailers or a rear-mounted cargo basket.
- Gooseneck hitch
This one’s built for muscle. Installed in the bed of a pickup truck, it’s made to tow heavy machinery, livestock trailers, and more. Perfect for farm work or construction.
- Fifth-wheel hitch
Designed for stability and strength, this system uses a plate and pivot mechanism — great for towing large campers or RVs. Just make sure your load is evenly distributed.
- Pintle hitch
The rugged choice for off-road or commercial use. It’s often used in agriculture or the military and can handle extreme conditions and uneven terrain.
Understanding trailer hitch classes
Each hitch is also categorized by class, which indicates how much weight it can safely tow. Choosing the right class is just as important as the hitch type.
- Class 1 — Light duty
Tows up to 2,000 lbs. Great for bike racks, small trailers, or cargo boxes. Best for sedans or compact SUVs.
- Class 2 — Standard duty
Up to 3,500 lbs. Ideal for small boats, medium trailers, or even a platform with an ATV. A great match for crossovers and smaller trucks.
- Class 3 — Heavy duty
Can tow up to 8,000 lbs. Think campers, contractor trailers, or a good-sized boat. Popular with larger SUVs and pickups.
- Class 4 — Extra heavy duty
Handles up to 10,000 lbs. Great for serious loads like large RVs or gear-packed trailers. Often used by contractors with full-sized trucks.
- Class 5 — Commercial grade
Massive capacity — up to 20,000 lbs. Only needed if you’re towing things like excavators or industrial equipment.
What about your vehicle’s towing capacity?
The hitch is only half the story. Your vehicle also has to be able to handle the load.
Towing capacity depends on more than just horsepower. Trucks with body-on-frame construction are built for towing, while most cars and SUVs use a unibody structure that’s less rugged.
Always check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s specific towing limit. Going over it could damage your engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension — and lead to a seriously expensive repair bill.
How much does a trailer hitch cost?
Prices vary depending on the hitch type, class, brand, and where you buy it. But here’s a rough guide:
- Class 1: $150–$250
- Class 2–3: $250–$400
- Class 4: $400–$700
You’ll also need to budget for wiring and installation if you’re not doing it yourself.
DIY installation or call the pros?
If you’ve got the tools and experience — and you’re installing a basic bumper or receiver hitch — you might be able to handle it yourself. Just follow the instructions closely and take your time. Bonus: you’ll save on labor and feel proud every time you hook something up.
But for complex setups like gooseneck or fifth-wheel hitches, it’s worth having a pro do the install. The experts at Docteur du Pare-Brise can make sure everything’s mounted safely and correctly, so you’re not white-knuckling your way down the highway.
A trailer hitch = freedom
From moving materials to towing your home-away-from-home, a good trailer hitch opens up a world of possibilities.
Stop by your local Docteur du Pare-Brise and chat with the team about your towing plans. They’ll help you pick the right hitch to bring your projects — and your adventures — to life.