Hitch Classes Explained
Trailer hitches are divided into five classes based on weight capacity. The class determines how much you can tow and what receiver size your hitch uses. Here is what each class covers and which vehicles typically use them.
Class 1: Class I
The lightest hitch class. Designed for light-duty towing and accessory mounting.
Typical vehicles: Small cars, compact sedans, small crossovers
Common uses: Small utility trailers, bike racks, cargo carriers
Class 2: Class II
A step up for midsize vehicles. Handles most small recreational trailers.
Typical vehicles: Midsize sedans, small SUVs, crossovers
Common uses: Small boat trailers, jet ski trailers, small utility trailers
Class 3: Class III
The most common hitch class for recreational towing. The 2-inch receiver is the industry standard.
Typical vehicles: Full-size SUVs, midsize trucks, large crossovers
Common uses: Boat trailers, car trailers, medium enclosed trailers, small travel trailers
Class 4: Class IV
Heavy-duty towing for full-size trucks. Same 2-inch receiver as Class III but rated higher.
Typical vehicles: Full-size trucks, heavy-duty SUVs
Common uses: Large travel trailers, car haulers, horse trailers, heavy equipment trailers
Class 5: Class V
The heaviest bumper-pull hitch class. The 2.5-inch receiver signals serious towing capability.
Typical vehicles: Heavy-duty trucks (F-250/350, Ram 2500/3500, Silverado 2500/3500)
Common uses: Large RVs, gooseneck trailers, heavy equipment, commercial loads
Find Your Vehicle's Hitch Class
Use the towing capacity lookup to see the hitch class for your specific vehicle and trim.
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