How it works
Every receiver hitch has two ratings: maximum gross trailer weight (GTW) and maximum tongue weight (TW). The calculator walks up the classes and returns the first one where both of your numbers fit:
Class fits if: loaded trailer ≤ class GTW AND tongue weight ≤ class TW
If you use 90% or more of the chosen class on either rating, the result is flagged as close to the limit and the next class up is suggested. Above Class V, a receiver hitch is not the right tool: look at a fifth wheel or gooseneck setup.
Worked example
A loaded camper weighs 5,000 lb and the tongue weight is unknown.
- Assumed tongue weight: 5,000 × 15% = 750 lb
- Class II (3,500 / 350 lb) is too small on both counts.
- Class III (8,000 / 800 lb) fits, but the tongue weight uses 94% of its rating, so it is flagged as close to the limit.
Measuring the real tongue weight (say 620 lb) would leave comfortable room in Class III.
Trailer hitch class chart
Typical ratings by class. Individual hitches can be rated lower or higher, so always read the label on your hitch.
| Class | Max GTW | Max tongue | Receiver | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class I | 2,000 lb 907 kg | 200 lb 91 kg | 1-1/4 in | Cars and small crossovers: bike racks, cargo carriers, small utility trailers |
| Class II | 3,500 lb 1,588 kg | 350 lb 159 kg | 1-1/4 in | Crossovers and minivans: small boats, jet skis, small campers |
| Class III | 8,000 lb 3,629 kg | 800 lb 363 kg | 2 in | SUVs and half-ton pickups: travel trailers, mid-size boats, car haulers |
| Class IV | 10,000 lb 4,536 kg | 1,000 lb 454 kg | 2 in | Full-size SUVs and pickups: large travel trailers and toy haulers |
| Class V | 20,000 lb 9,072 kg | 2,700 lb 1,225 kg | 2 in or 2-1/2 in | Heavy-duty pickups: equipment trailers, large campers (ratings vary by maker) |
Every part of the hitch has a rating
The receiver class is only one link in the chain. Your real limit is the lowest rating among:
- The vehicle’s tow rating and tongue weight limit (owner’s manual)
- The receiver hitch (label on the hitch)
- The ball mount or drawbar (stamped on it)
- The hitch ball (stamped on top)
- The trailer coupler (stamped on the coupler)
- Safety chains, which must be rated for the trailer’s gross weight
Check the trailer side with the tongue weight calculator and the vehicle side with thetowing capacity calculator.
Common mistakes
- Matching only the receiver size. A 2-inch receiver can be Class III, IV or V. Read the rating, not the opening.
- Forgetting tongue weight. A trailer can be within GTW and still exceed the hitch’s tongue rating.
- Mixing parts. A Class V ball on a Class III hitch is still a Class III setup.
- Using a reducer sleeve without checking. Adapters often lower the rating of the whole setup.