What do the trailer hitch classes mean to you?

Trailer Hitches are typically given a "class" rating to define their weight capacity and receiver opening size. Classes range from class I to class V. All hitches will have a specified towing capacity and hitches within the same class will have the same weight capacities. They will typically have the same receiver opening size also, although this in not always the case for class II hitches. Below we will review some of the differences between hitch classes.

Class I Hitches

Class I hitches have a gross trailer weight rating of up to 2000 lbs. and a maximum tongue weight of 200 lbs. This hitch is designed for very light towing, bicycle racks and hitch carriers.  Class I receivers usually have a 1 1/4 inch opening. This type of hitch is often used on smaller cars, smaller pickups and smaller vans

Class II Hitches

Class II Hitches have a gross trailer weight rating of up to 3500 lbs. and a maximum tongue weight of 350 lbs. This hitch can use the same accessories as a Class I hitch as well as a small boat trailer, camper or cargo trailer. Class II hitches usually have a 1 1/4 inch receiver opening. This type of hitch is often used on larger cars, full-size vans, full-size pickups and SUVs.

Class III Hitches

Class III hitches have a gross trailer weight rating of up to 5000 lbs and a maximum tongue weight rating of 500 lbs. This hitch can handle everything Class I and II size hitches can, as well as larger boats, campers and trailers. This hitch receiver has a 2 inch opening. It is usually fitted to fit a specific vehicle and attaches directly to the vehicles frame.

Class IV Hitches

Class IV hitches have a gross trailer weight rating of 10000 lbs. and a tongue weight rating of up to 1200 lbs. This hitch is usually a weight distribution hitch designed for heavier towing applications.

Class V Hitches

Class V hitches have a gross trailer weight rating of 12000 to 17000 lbs depending on if a weight distributing system is used.