The Receiver Hitch: The Most Popular Way to Tow

The receiver hitch is the most popular towing option on the market. It is the one that we most often see used by most SUVs, trucks, RVs and trailers. It is also the hitch of choice for bike, ski and cargo racks.

These popular hitches are used on the front and back of vehicles for loads of all different kinds. This particular kind of hitch is favored by most because it is detachable when not in use. This means that the ball platform, or mount, can be removed when not towing. This is a good safety feature as well as a practical consideration that streamlines towing equipment to a bare minimum when not in use.

These hitches come in different shapes and sizes that are related to the tow vehicle and the Class of tow hitch that matches your vehicle's requirements. Lightweight cars use light duty tow hitches that have a Class I weight capacity of up to 2,000lbs. These vehicles do not have the capacity to tow camper trailers or boats but tend to be used for bike and ski racks or smaller utility trailers.

SUVs and trucks tend to use tow packages in the Class III to Class IV range where towing capacities are 5,000 to 6,500 lbs. These vehicles are the natural option for towing larger loads like camper trailers and boats.

The receiver hitch uses two different sized receiver openings: the lower class I and II tow packages tend to use the 1-1/4" opening and the higher classes, III and IV, use the 2" opening. Adapters can be purchased that can convert a 1-1/4" opening to a 2" opening and vice versa.