Trailer Hitch Installation: What It Is and Where to Find It - Moving.com (2024)

Towing a trailer behind your car is a great way to haul belongings to your new home. Not only is renting a trailer an affordable way to move, but it also gives you the flexibility to move on your own timeline. If you plan to use a trailer as part of your DIY moving plan, we recommend researching trailer hitches first. In order to ensure a safe and successful move, you’ll need a high-quality trailer hitch (or tow hitch, as it’s often called) installed on your vehicle. Given a trailer’s weight, it’s extremely important that you have the correct trailer hitch installed on the back of your vehicle. Otherwise, you could end up with a disastrous moving experience. Wondering “where can I find a trailer hitch installation near me?” Fortunately, we can help. Below is everything you need to know about trailer hitch installation, including what it is and where to find a trailer hitch installation service near you.

What is a trailer hitch?

A tow hitch is a device that attaches to a tow vehicle and connects the tow vehicle to the trailer. There are various different kinds of trailer hitches to choose from depending on what exactly you plan to tow. Most tow hitches are permanent, but some are removable. A trailer hitch installation service will be able to help you ascertain which tow hitch is right for your moving situation.

What are the different types of trailer hitches?

Believe it or not, there are many different types of trailer hitches available. More complicated hitches may require that a professional trailer hitch installation service attach the hitch to your vehicle. Trailer hitches are divided into five classes, “depending on towing capacity and receiver tube size,” according to Curt Manufacturing, a leading trailer hitch manufacturer. In general, the more weight a hitch can hold, the higher the class it falls under. Class one hitches can only tow up to 2,000 lbs., while a class five hitch is capable of towing up to 20,000 lbs. For reference, several types of hitches used include:

• Receiver style hitch
• Bolt-on trailer hitch
• Custom trailer hitch
• Fixed tongue hitch
• 5^th wheel hitch
• Gooseneck hitch
• Weight distribution hitch
• Pintle hitch

Where can I get a trailer hitch installation near me?

If attaching a trailer hitch to your towing vehicle seems intimidating or complicated, we recommend having a professional handle the installation for you. Unless you’ve installed a trailer hitch in the past, it’s a good idea to pay up for professional service. This will also help ensure that your tow hitch is installed safely and securely. In addition to local auto repair shops, which often provide these services, you can try these three well-known trailer hitch installation service providers and marketplaces (listed below) to find a pro in your area.

1. U-Haul

   With an abundance of locations nationwide, U-Haul is one of the easiest service centers to find when it comes to installing a tow hitch on your vehicle. In fact, the truck rental company states that they have over 1,500 install locations throughout the country.

   According to the company, “all trailer hitches sold and installed at aU-HaulMoving Center come with the option of a lifetime warranty plan guaranteed to replace your hitch with no limitation for any damage, including collision, corrosion, accidental overload, jackknifing and vehicle theft. A wiring service plan is also available. This covers repair and replacement of any damage to your wiring setup for up to two years.” U-Haul offers an extensive selection of towing components as well to fit every type of move.

   To figure out what kind of trailer hitch you need, simply enter your vehicle year, car make, car model, zip code and installation date to receive information on U-Haul’s available and compatible trailer hitches.

2. Amazon Home Services

   Looking for a local pro? We recommend trying Amazon Home Services. The marketplace connects those looking for professional trailer hitch installation services to professional installers in their area.

   According to Amazon, here’s what’s included in the service: service provided by a pro, verified hitch attachment and vehicle tow rating, drilling holes into vehicle frame (if required), mounting new customer-provided hitch, clean up and operational overview. Amazon Home Services states that customers must supply nuts, bolts, and mounting hardware. Wiring hitch not included in the estimate.

   Overall, the service has received stellar reviews online. Out of 300-plus customer reviews, 91 percent of them have been five stars. We should note, though, that the service is only available in “select cities.” The service states that they are expanding and hope to be able to serve more areas soon.

3. Pep Boys

   With numerous locations nationwide, it’s easy to find a Pep Boys near you. The auto repair chain is a great one-stop shop for all of your towing and trailer needs, including trailer hitch installation.

   Pep Boys recommends using the company’s guide to finding the right hitch for your vehicle. Since some Pep Boys locations offer different services from others, you’ll want to call to check whether your local service center offers trailer hitch installation. To set up your appointment, all you need to do is enter the year, make, model and engine. Select the services you need, the date and time you wish to do the installation and your contact information.

   Overall, Pep Boys’ trailer hitch installation package seems to have average reviews when it comes to trailer hitch installations. This may mean that some Pep Boys locations are simply more customer-friendly than others.

Can I install a trailer hitch myself?

Thanks to YouTube tutorials and blog post instructions, it’s easy to learn how to install a tow hitch on your vehicle. If you have the equipment and the know-how, then by all means give it a try. However, if the tow hitch is a complicated one and/or you plan to tow a fairly heavy trailer, we recommend having a professional do the work for you. This is the only way to ensure that everything is done correctly. In addition, it will likely take a professional much less time to do the work than if you did it yourself.

How much does it cost to install a trailer hitch?

Trailer hitch installation costs vary widely depending what installer you choose and the type of towing vehicle you plan to drive. For the service, expect to pay around $100 to $150 for a typical hitch installation. Particularly complicated and time consuming hitch installations may cost more. Keep in mind that hitch parts aren’t cheap either and can cost anywhere from $25 to $200.

Where can I find a cargo trailer for my next move?

Most truck rental companies offer towing equipment and trailers for rent –typically a tow dolly, utility trailer and/or car carrier. However, for moving household belongings you’ll likely want to opt for an enclosed cargo trailer. The closed top and sides design ensure that your items are protected from the elements while on the road. To find an enclosed trailer rental for your next move, we suggest looking at U-Haul’s options. The truck rental company has thousands of locations nationwide, making it easy to find a pick-up and return center near your home. Here’s what you should know about U-Haul’s cargo trailers:

• The company’s cargo trailers come in three sizes: 4’x8’, 5’x8’ and 6’x12’.
• Cargo trailers are aerodynamic and lightweight, making them easy to tow.
• The enclosed design protects items from weather and wear-and-tear accumulated from being on the road.
• Cargo trailers come with a built-in lockable latch, which allows customers to lock items inside the trailer while traveling.
• The majority of cars (with the exception of sport-utility vehicles) are capable of towing a U-Haul trailer.

Ready to rent a trailer or moving truck for your next move?

To find a truck rental or trailer that best fits your budget and needs, check out our truck rental center. Our truck rental center provides discounts on various truck rental companies in your area, as well as more information on the process of renting a moving truck. If you’re in need of moving day help with packing, loading, or unloading the truck or trailer, I suggest hiring a professional moving company to assist with the labor. To find the best moving company to move your belongings, simply complete the move form below to find reputable and reliable movers. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands. Good luck and happy moving!