When it comes to towing, not every trailer hitch is the right fit for every job. Trailer hitches are grouped into different classes depending on their specific purpose, weight capacities, and sizes. To haul safely and effectively, you’ll need to understand what the different trailer hitch classes are and which is best for your vehicle and cargo.
The 5 trailer hitch classes include:
The right hitch class depends on your vehicle’s towing capacity, how much your trailer weighs, and the type of items you plan to tow. This guide explores everything you need to know before your next adventure.
What Are the 5 Trailer Hitch Classes?
Trailer hitches are separated into 5 different classes. Each class is designed to accommodate different towing weights, receiver size, and vehicle compatibility.
| Class | Vehicles Installation | Gross Towing Weight | Receiver Size | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Passenger cars, Crossovers | 2,000 lbs. | 1-1¼ inch | Cargo, bike rack, small trailers/boats |
| 2 | Sedans, Minivans, Crossovers | 3,500 lbs. | 1-1¼ inch | Small campers, mid-sized trailers/boats |
| 3 | Minivans, Pick-ups, SUVs | 8,000 lbs. | 2 inch | Utility trailers, campers, mid-sized boats |
| 4 | Large pick-ups, SUVs | 10,000 lbs. | 2 inch | Full-size campers/boats, large utility trailers |
| 5 | Commercial Trucks, Heavy-duty vehicles | 17,000 – 20,000 lbs. | 2-2½ inch | Flat-bed utility trailers, livestock trailers, large campers/boats |
Class 1 Trailer Hitch
A Class 1 hitch has the lowest towing capacity of the group, topping out at 2,000 lbs, with a 1 to 1¼ inch receiving tube. These hitches are built for compact cars, small sedans, and other lightweight passenger vehicles, giving smaller cars a reliable way to tow light loads without putting excess strain on the vehicle.
What Can I Tow With a Class 1 Trailer Hitch?
- Bike rack
- Cargo carrier
- Small trailer
- Ski or snowboard rack
Class 2 Trailer Hitch
With a Class 2 hitch, you can tow up to about 3,500 lbs., giving you more flexibility for slightly heavier cargo carriers, bike racks, or small trailers. It’s a practical upgrade for most sedans and minivans that need a bit more towing power.
What Can I Tow With a Class 2 Trailer Hitch?
- Bike rack
- Cargo carrier
- Small boat
- Mid-sized trailer
- Small camper
- Personal watercraft (jet ski)
Class 3 Trailer Hitch
A Class 3 trailer hitch is the most common choice for full-size pickups and SUVs. They allow you to tow a much larger weight capacity of up to 8,000 lbs., with a receiving tube of 2 inches. Class 3 hitches are extremely versatile and can handle a wide variety of trailers and load sizes.
What Can I Tow With a Class 3 Trailer Hitch?
- Motorized boat
- Utility trailer
- Camper
- ATV or UTV trailer
Class 4 Trailer Hitch
A Class 4 hitch is typically mounted on full-size pickups and SUVs and also have a 2 inch receiver size. However, they can handle a much greater towing capacity, hauling up to 10,000 lbs. These hitches are ideal for larger recreational loads or commercial hauling.
What Can I Tow With a Class 4 Trailer Hitch?
- Motorized boat
- Large utility trailer
- Large camper
- Enclosed cargo trailer
- Multiple ATVs on a trailer
Class 5 Trailer Hitch
A Class 5 trailer hitch is the most powerful option for pickup trucks and commercial vehicles. This class can have a towing capacity of up to 20,000 lbs., depending on the receiver size, which spans from 2½ to 3 inches. It’s a great choice for a wide variety of trailers and heavy-duty commercial hauling.
What Can I Tow With a Class 5 Trailer Hitch?
- Flatbed utility trailer
- Livestock trailer
- Large camper
- Large motorized boat
- Small construction equipment
- Gooseneck trailer
Get Expert Trailer Hitch Installation Services at Campway’s
Choosing the right trailer hitch class is essential for safe and efficient towing. At Campway’s, our expert staff is always happy to walk you through your options and guide you toward the best trailer hitch for your needs, vehicle, and budget. Whether you’re hauling for work or your next weekend getaway, our shelves are fully stocked with a selection of trailer hitches and towing accessories from leading brands. We also offer on-site installation services for any trailer hitch brand, no matter where you bought it from.
Ready to take your towing setup to the next level? Contact us online or stop by any one of our Northern California locations to shop towing hitches or book installation services today.
