Compare These Top Vendors for Trailer Hitches

Towing a trailer behind your car or truck requires specialized driving skills and, more importantly, a knowledge of what type of hitch you will need to accommodate both your car's towing capacity and the weight of the trailer.

Trailer hitch distributors generally sell trailer hitches for cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs capable of carrying a variety of different load weights. While most vehicles are capable of having a trailer hitch attached, the amount of weight different vehicles can carry differs widely. Before you buy from the trailer hitch suppliers, however, you'll need to take a few steps in preparation:

1.  Determine the gross trailer weight you need to tow, which refers to the trailer weight and the load weight combined.
2.  Read your car's manual or work with trailer hitch suppliers to determine what type of trailer hitches your vehicle can accommodate.
3.  Shop for interchangeable hitches and hitch balls to maximize your towing options.
4.  Shop for other load-carrying accessories if you can't find trailer hitches for sale that accommodate all of your needs or if you have special needs.

Calculate the gross trailer weight

To pick the right trailer hitches, you need to know the combined weight of the trailer you'll be towing and the load you need to carry.

Know what your car can carry

Check your vehicle's manual to learn more about its towing capabilities and what kinds of trailer hitches it can use.

Shop for variety and flexibility with trailer hitch sellers

Looking for trailer hitch sellers that stock interchangeable hitch balls can save you some trouble if you have a variety of towing needs.

Make the accessories of trailer hitches suit your needs

For some cargo needs, you may prefer a cargo rack or specialty cargo device rather than a trailer.

• Make sure you have good quality chains or cables to secure your trailer to the hitch in the event that the hitch loosens. Even heavy-duty hitches can come unhitched, but a chain or cable provides an emergency back-up.
• Have bungee cords or nylon ratchet straps on hand to tie down your cargo to your trailer or cargo rack if you have an open rack or trailer. In many states, it is illegal to carry cargo that is not adequately tied down or covered.