Where To Find the Best Trailer Hitch Installation 2024) (2024)

We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.More

Where To Find the Best Trailer Hitch Installation 2024) (1)

Compare quotes from local moving experts.

Invalid Zip Code

Join the 6,755 people who have received a free, no-obligation quote in the last 30 days

Where To Find the Best Trailer Hitch Installation 2024) (2)Written byShane SentelleUpdated 04/17/2024

Where To Find the Best Trailer Hitch Installation 2024) (3)

Shane Sentelle

Shane Sentelle is a content writer with more than six years of experience producing content about home services. A main area of focus is the moving industry, but Shane has also written for home inspectors and published articles to inform readers about pest control, lawn care, and gutter services…

See full bio

A well-installed trailer hitch allows you to tow everything from moving trailers and campers to boats and landscaping equipment. It can help you save money on moving, enable you to transport large loads, and open up a new world of possibilities for outdoor recreation.

The most popular trailer hitch service provider is U-Haul. The company has over 1,500 install locations across the U.S. In this article, we’ll explore where to find the best trailer hitch installation services, how much installation costs, and whether you can tackle the job yourself.

Factors To Consider for Tow Hitch Installation

Start by checking the availability of services in your area when selecting a tow hitch installation provider. Some companies might have longer wait times or limited appointment slots. Equally important is the range of hitch types a facility can install and how much they charge for installation.

Consider the following factors before moving forward with a trailer hitch installation:

Availability: Determine how quickly you can get an appointment and whether the facility’s schedule aligns with yours.

Expertise: Look for a place with experienced technicians who can recommend the right trailer hitch for your needs. Ask about their training and quality control processes. For instance, U-Haul maintains detailed records of all hitch installations, and its installers undergo continuous training on the latest products and techniques.

Pricing: Compare prices on both materials (the hitch itself) and labor (the installation) to find the best deal.

Reputation: Check online third-party customer reviews to assess a company’s service quality and professionalism.

Selection: Make sure the facility can install the type of trailer hitch you need. You should also confirm with your installer that it carries the product you need if you plan to purchase it at its facility.

Warranty: Professional installation should come with a solid warranty on parts and labor. A big red flag is if a company is unwilling to stand behind its work. For example, CURT provides a limited lifetime warranty on its hitches, while U-Haul only charges $5* for a lifetime warranty that covers nearly any type of damage.

Top Service Providers for Trailer Hitch Installation

Various companies offer trailer hitch installation. These include car dealerships, moving truck rental companies, auto parts stores, and auto repair shops.

  • Moving truck rental companies: U-Haul is a popular trailer hitch service provider with over 1,500 install locations across the U.S. Enter your vehicle year, make, and model on the U-Haul website, and the company will recommend compatible products. It sells various towing accessories, including bike racks, cargo carriers, ball mounts, and hitches from top brands. Many U-Haul locations offer same-day walk-in installations, or you can book an appointment online. Scheduling a trailer hitch installation through U-Haul is especially convenient if you already plan to rent a U-Haul trailer.
  • Auto repair shop: You can contact a local mechanic after you to purchase the hitch yourself from Amazon, AutoZone, or another retailer. Hitch installation is a relatively simple task that your mechanic should be able to handle. However, the difficulty level may be higher for heavy-duty hitches and those requiring a wiring harness.
  • Car dealerships: Car dealerships also offer factory-certified trailer hitches and professional installation services tailored to your vehicle’s make and model. Some car owners get their trailer hitch installed at their local Pep Boys, or you can look at the CURT searchable database for local dealers and installers.

How Much Does It Cost To Install a Trailer Hitch?

Trailer hitch installation costs vary depending on the type of hitch you choose and your vehicle model. Pricing also varies by location. According to U-Haul, you can expect to pay around $100–$600 for trailer hitch installation, depending on the price and availability of necessary parts. This cost includes both parts and labor. Installation can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two to three hours.

Receiver hitches are the most common and versatile option to install. They attach to a vehicle’s frame and have a weight capacity ranging from 2,000–20,000 pounds. A basic light-duty receiver hitch will be on the lower end of the cost spectrum. More expensive options include heavy-duty receiver hitches, fifth-wheel hitches, gooseneck hitches, weight distribution hitches, and pintle hitches.

*Cost data via U-Haul.

The type of hitch you need is determined by what you plan to tow and the gross trailer weight (GTW) involved. Generally, the higher the towing capacity and the more modifications needed to install the hitch, the more the installation will cost. Expect to pay extra if you need to install a wiring harness for trailer lights or other hitch accessories.

Steps to follow

Can I Install a Trailer Hitch Myself? (DIY Guide)

You can install a trailer hitch yourself if you have the right tools and some basic automotive skills. Installing a hitch yourself will save you money and give you a better understanding of how your hitch system works.

The dropdown tabs below explain the steps to install a trailer hitch on your own:

You’ll need a ratchet, ratchet extension, socket set, swivel set, torque wrench, and trailer hitch kit. You may also need a floor jack and stands, but this will depend on the hitch type, vehicle, and workspace. Confirm that the hitch kit includes all mounting hardware for the installation.

Lift the rear of your vehicle and secure it using jack stands if necessary. Identify where you’re installing the hitch and remove any existing hardware or obstructions, such as a spare tire.

Align the hitch with the existing bolt holes in the frame and attach it loosely using the provided hardware. Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Double-check all the bolts and connections. Perform a few test drives with a light load, such as an empty trailer, before using your vehicle to tow heavy objects, such as an ATV or another vehicle.

Our Conclusion

Installing a trailer hitch can significantly enhance the utility of your vehicle. Professional installation is available at U-Haul locations nationwide, or you can go to your local mechanic or car dealership. DIY installation is also a feasible option if you’d like to save a little money.

FAQ About Trailer Hitch Installation

What is the best trailer hitch on the market?

The best trailer hitch on the market depends on your towing needs and vehicle type. A Class 2 or Class 3 receiver hitch is sufficient for most people. Popular brands include Reese, Draw-Tite, and CURT.

How can a trailer be towed without a hitch?

We don’t recommend towing a trailer for a short distance without a hitch. Some state laws may even require the use of a trailer hitch, drawbar, or similar device.

What is the best trailer hitch installation service?

We recommend U-Haul as the best trailer hitch installation service. U-Haul is available in all 50 states, and many locations offer same-day walk-in service.

How long does a trailer hitch installation take?

A trailer hitch installation can take 30 minutes to three hours. Your vehicle and hitch type will also affect the installation time.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.

More on Moving

  • Trailer Hitch Installation Cost (2024 Guide)

  • 10 Packing Tips To Streamline Your Move (2024 Guide)

  • The Best Long-Distance Moving Companies

  • Best Moving Truck Rental Companies

Where To Find the Best Trailer Hitch Installation 2024) (2024)

FAQs

Can I put a trailer hitch on a 2024 Trax? ›

Towing Equipment and Accessories

To make the most of your 2024 Chevy Trax's towing capability, it' s crucial to have the right gear. This vehicle can pull small trailers, light utility ones, pop-up campers, and more. Add a trailer hitch, and your Chevy Trax is ready for these light towing jobs.

What is the most popular trailer hitch size? ›

The most common size trailer hitch ball is the 2-inch diameter ball. The 2-inch ball is used on a variety of popular trailers, such as boat trailers, utility trailers and campers. 2-inch trailer balls have a wide weight capacity range from 3,500 pounds to 12,000 pounds gross trailer weight.

What class hitch is the best? ›

Best car hitch

The best tow hitch for a car is a class 1 or 2 receiver hitch. Some cars are able to tow a trailer, but many are not. More often, car hitches are used to attach a cargo carrier or bike rack to increase cargo capacity. The best car hitch is one that's customized to fit the car's frame and design features.

Can I install a trailer hitch myself? ›

Yes, you can install a trailer hitch by yourself. All hitches sold by U-Haul come with installation instructions for DIY installation purposes. Please keep in mind that proper installation requires specific tools, and it can be difficult depending on the hitch and vehicle.

How much weight can a 2024 Trax tow? ›

The Chevrolet Trax is both capable and smooth because that's what modern SUV drivers demand. The ECOTEC 1.2L Turbo engine is at the forefront of these spectacular performance features, and this model can generate a max of 137 horsepower when properly equipped. The Chevy Trax has a max towing capacity of 1,263 pounds.

What is the difference between a tow hitch and a trailer hitch? ›

A tow hitch is simply another name for a trailer hitch. It is a hitch used for towing a trailer. Usually, tow hitch refers specifically to a receiver hitch. However, a 5th wheel hitch, gooseneck hitch and other hitches may be called tow hitches.

What is the strongest hitch? ›

Class 5 trailer hitches have the highest weight ratings of the receiver hitch classes, offering as much as 20,000 lbs. GTW. They are typically used on full-size pickups and commercial trucks. CURT offers two types of class 5 hitches.

What is the best hitch to tow a travel trailer? ›

If you plan on traveling, the best hitch for travel trailers will be a Class 3, Class 4 or Class 5, as they allow you to tow larger, heavier trailers safely. Most are also compatible with a weight distribution hitch, which is typically needed for towing travel trailers.

How do you know what trailer hitch to buy? ›

To pick the right hitch receiver for you, you have to consider the size of your vehicle, how much weight you need to tow (understanding which hitch class fits best), and how you can maximize your vehicle's potential.

Should I get a Class II or Class III hitch? ›

Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to 3,500 lbs in GTW and up to 525 lbs in TW. Class III, on the other hand, have a 2 inch receiver and have up to 8,000 lbs GTW and 800 lbs TW.

Is an adjustable hitch worth it? ›

It can adjust in height and provide a level tow when towing trailers that vary in size and weight. It also allows you to tow trailers with different ball sizes as well. An adjustable trailer hitch is certainly worth the investment.

Which trailer coupler is best? ›

The 2" coupler is the most widely used coupler, as most trailers fit into this weight category. Simply lowering the coupler onto the 2" ball attached to the trailer hitch and clamping down the top latch is all it takes to attach it to a hitch. 1 7/8" ball coupler: For use with a 1 7/8" ball.

How long does it take to install a trailer hitch? ›

Installation time varies across vehicles, but the whole process typically ranges anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours. When you choose U-Haul for your hitch installation, you have two options – drop off your vehicle or wait onsite with your vehicle.

Are trailer hitches hard to install? ›

With the right tools and expertise, installing a trailer hitch can be a straightforward process: First, your mechanic will clear rust and debris off the mounting frame at the back of your vehicle. Next, they use professional-grade tools to attach a compatible trailer hitch to your vehicle's frame.

Do I need wiring for a hitch? ›

Any vehicle towing a trailer requires a trailer wiring harness to safely connect the taillights, turn signals, brake lights and other necessary electrical systems. If your vehicle is not equipped with working trailer wiring, there are a number of different solutions to provide the perfect fit for your specific vehicle.

Can you flat tow a 24 Chevy Trax? ›

Expert Reply: The first thing you need to flat tow your 2024 Chevy Trax is a base plate kit which for that we have the Blue Ox part # BLU24UR that is a confirmed fit and also easier to connect/disconnect.

Can you have a hitch on your truck when not towing? ›

The answer is no. Having a ball hitch in the receiver hitch of your SUV or truck, even if you are not hauling a trailer out of a ditch during that time, is not illegal. Additionally, it is not illegal to have more than one ball hitch on your bumper.

Does a trailer hitch devalue a car? ›

However, if a potential buyer needed a vehicle with a tow hitch, it might be worth maybe $100, but no more. In regards to accessories they add close to zero to the value of the car. It's no different than comparing 2 identical cars with one of them having an AM/FM radio and the other an AM/FM/CD.

Can you use a hitch adapter for towing? ›

If you need to change the size of your receiver to fit your towing accessory, you should purchase a hitch adapter. If you need to increase the space between your towing accessory or trailer and your vehicle, you should purchase a hitch extender.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Velia Krajcik

Last Updated:

Views: 5772

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (74 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Velia Krajcik

Birthday: 1996-07-27

Address: 520 Balistreri Mount, South Armand, OR 60528

Phone: +466880739437

Job: Future Retail Associate

Hobby: Polo, Scouting, Worldbuilding, Cosplaying, Photography, Rowing, Nordic skating

Introduction: My name is Velia Krajcik, I am a handsome, clean, lucky, gleaming, magnificent, proud, glorious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.