How to Select a Trailer Hitch
Classes, receiver sizes, and matching hitch ratings to the trailer.
Watch on YouTubeWhat Hitch Class Do I Need? (Canada)
Trailer hitches
The hitch class you need is the one that covers your trailer weight under the vehicle tow rating, with a receiver opening that matches your mounts and racks. Most Canadian trucks and SUVs land on Class 3. Choose Class 4 only when the numbers ask for it.
We stock CURT Class 1 through Class 5 receivers, with free shipping anywhere in Canada.
Deeper class compare?
Class 3 versus Class 4.
Buying basics?
Hitch buying guide.
Hub:
towing guides.
A short decision
Read the door-sticker tow rating and the trailer GVWR. If both sit in the everyday half-ton and SUV band, Class 3 with a two-inch receiver is usually the answer. Compact cars and small crossovers often need Class 1 or Class 2 with a one-and-one-quarter-inch opening. Heavy trailers on three-quarter-ton and one-ton trucks may need Class 4 when the hitch rating and the truck chart both support it.
Never use hitch class to override the vehicle rating. The lowest number in the chain wins. If you already have a factory receiver, confirm its class stamp and whether the CURT aftermarket hitch is even needed.
Class versus accessories
Bike racks and cargo carriers care about receiver opening and tongue weight more than the class printed on the box. A Class 3 two-inch tube is the common Canadian accessory dock. Reducers into a one-and-one-quarter-inch rack can lower capacity. Read the accessory rating before you force a fit.
Official CURT class overview
Hardware by receiver size
Every part ships free anywhere in Canada. Open the product page for the full rating and fit notes.
CURT part 45028One and one quarter inch ball mountFor the smaller Class 1 and Class 2 receiver tube.$55.73 CAD
CURT part 45036Two inch ball mountClass 3 and Class 4 two-inch receivers. Check drop and rating on the product page.$57.03 CAD
CURT part 40016One and seven eighths inch trailer ballThree quarter by three inch shank, 2,000 lb, chrome.$29.66 CAD
CURT part 40003Two inch hitch ballThe common two-inch ball. Match the shank to the mount hole.$26.20 CAD
CURT part 21400Half inch hitch pin with clipFor receivers that use the smaller pin.$16.11 CAD
CURT part 21500Five-eighths hitch pin with clipEveryday pin for two-inch receivers.$12.84 CAD
