What Size Trailer Hitch Do I Need?

When it comes to towing, safety and compatibility are everything. One of the most common questions people ask before hauling a trailer is: What size trailer hitch do I need? Choosing the wrong size can lead to dangerous driving conditions, damaged equipment, and expensive repairs.

This guide will walk you through hitch sizes, classes, and how to choose the right one for your specific needs.

What Is a Trailer Hitch?

A trailer hitch is a device attached to the chassis of your vehicle that allows you to tow a trailer or mount accessories like bike racks or cargo carriers. The two key components are the receiver tube size and the hitch class — both of which determine what your vehicle can safely pull.

Trailer Hitch Receiver Sizes

There are four main hitch receiver sizes, each designed for different levels of towing:

1.25-Inch Receiver

• Common for Class I and II hitches
• Best for compact cars and light-duty use
• Great for bike racks or small utility trailers

2-Inch Receiver

• The most versatile size
• Found on Class III and IV hitches
• Works with trucks, SUVs, and full-size vans
• Capable of towing boats, campers, or utility trailers

2.5-Inch Receiver

• Found on heavy-duty trucks
• Matches with Class V hitches
• Ideal for horse trailers, RVs, and industrial equipment

3-Inch Receiver

• Rare, ultra-heavy-duty option
• Only used on specific commercial-grade trucks
• Requires specialized equipment

Understanding Trailer Hitch Classes

Hitch classes define how much weight a hitch can handle. Here’s a breakdown:

Class I

• Receiver size: 1.25″
• Tows up to 2,000 lbs
• Ideal for bike racks or small trailers on compact cars

Class II

• Receiver size: 1.25″
• Tows up to 3,500 lbs
• Suitable for sedans or smaller SUVs hauling small campers or boats

Class III

• Receiver size: 2″
• Tows up to 6,000 lbs
• Fits most SUVs and pickup trucks
• Great for utility trailers, boats, and mid-sized campers

Class IV

• Receiver size: 2″
• Tows up to 10,000 lbs
• Designed for heavy loads, like construction trailers or large campers

Class V

• Receiver size: 2.5″ or 3″
• Tows 12,000–20,000+ lbs
• Built for the biggest jobs — commercial trailers, car haulers, and more

How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Size

1. Know Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity

Always start by checking your vehicle’s manual or door jamb sticker. Exceeding your tow rating can damage your vehicle and void your warranty.

2. Determine What You’re Towing

Know the total loaded weight of your trailer, including cargo. This is your gross trailer weight (GTW). Also note the tongue weight (TW) — the downward force exerted on the hitch — which should generally be 10–15% of the GTW.

3. Match the Hitch Class to Your Needs

Use your towing specs to pick the right hitch class. If you’re hauling more than 3,500 lbs, a Class III or higher is usually best. If you plan to haul a variety of things, a 2″ receiver is the most adaptable.

4. Don’t Forget Weight Distribution

If your trailer has a high tongue weight, you may benefit from a weight distribution hitch, which spreads the load more evenly and keeps your vehicle level while towing.

Why the Right Hitch Size Matters

Using the wrong size hitch can lead to:

• Trailer sway and loss of control
• Excessive wear on your suspension and brakes
• Poor fuel economy
• Unsafe driving conditions for you and others

A properly matched hitch ensures better stability, handling, and peace of mind.

Still Unsure? Let Andersen Hitches Help.

At Andersen Hitches, we specialize in premium towing solutions engineered for safety, strength, and simplicity. Whether you’re towing a lightweight trailer or hauling heavy equipment, our adjustable hitches, weight distribution systems, and ball mounts are designed to handle the job — and look good doing it.

Need a hitch for your RV, travel trailer, or work truck? Want help figuring out the right class and receiver size for your vehicle? Our experts are here to walk you through every step.

Get matched with the perfect hitch. Your towing experience starts here — and it starts with the right gear.