Whether you’re towing for work, play, or a little of both, the right hitch is essential for safety, performance, and peace of mind. At Calgary Hitch Shop, we’ve spent over 25 years helping Albertans find the perfect fit for their towing needs – whether that’s hauling a camper to the mountains, transporting livestock, or simply bringing the family bikes along for a weekend adventure.

If you’ve ever wondered what the best option is for your vehicle, here’s a breakdown of the most common Types Of Hitches Available In Calgary, along with how to choose the right one for your towing setup.

Understanding Hitch Class Ratings

Most hitches are rated by “class,” which determines their weight capacity and receiver tube size:

  • Class I – Light-duty, up to 2,000 lbs. Perfect for small trailers, bike racks, or cargo carriers on compact cars and sedans.
  • Class II – Up to 3,500 lbs. Often used on sedans and SUVs for towing small boats, campers, or utility trailers.
  • Class III – Up to 10,000 lbs. A popular option for SUVs, vans, and mid-sized trucks. Suitable for medium trailers, campers, and boats.
  • Class IV – 10,000–14,000 lbs. Heavy-duty hitches for full-size trucks hauling large boats or heavier trailers.
  • Class V – 12,000–20,000 lbs. The toughest hitches, used on heavy-duty trucks for hauling machinery, multi-car trailers, and more.

Knowing your vehicle’s tow rating (listed in the owner’s manual) will help you match the right class to your needs.

Trailer & Receiver Hitches

The most common hitch you’ll see is the receiver hitch, mounted to the rear frame of your vehicle. This versatile design allows you to swap out accessories such as bike racks, cargo carriers, or trailer ball mounts. Receiver hitches are available in all five classes, making them a go-to choice for everything from light recreational towing to heavy industrial jobs.

Gooseneck Hitches

Designed for trucks, gooseneck hitches mount directly into the bed for added stability and strength. Their ball-style design distributes weight over the rear axle, making them ideal for commercial loads, livestock trailers, or RVs. Many drivers love their versatility, as adapters can convert a gooseneck into a fifth wheel-style connection when needed.

5th Wheel Hitches

While similar in truck-bed placement to goosenecks, 5th wheel hitches use a large, flat plate (shaped like a horseshoe) that locks securely to the trailer’s kingpin. The result? Smoother turns, quieter rides, and more stability – especially important when towing large travel trailers or fifth wheel RVs.

Weight Distribution Hitches

If your trailer feels like it’s dragging your vehicle’s rear end, a weight distribution hitch may be the answer. By evenly redistributing the load across all axles, this system improves steering, braking, and overall control. When paired with sway control, it makes towing safer and more comfortable. We recommend this style for anyone towing a trailer that weighs more than 50% of their tow vehicle.

RV & Flat-Towing Options

For RV owners, specialized hitches like flat-towing setups or camper tie-downs make it easy to bring along smaller vehicles or secure your camper safely. These systems are tailored to recreational lifestyles, giving you the freedom to explore without limits.

Custom Hitches & Specialty Solutions

Not every vehicle has an off-the-shelf solution – which is why we also specialize in custom hitches. From cube vans to imported right-hand drive vehicles, our team can fabricate a hitch built specifically for your needs. With over two decades of experience, we’ve seen (and built) it all.

Accessories & Towing Components

A hitch is just the start. To tow safely, you may also need:

  • Hitch balls & ball mounts – The connector between your trailer and vehicle.
  • Brake controllers – Essential for trailers with electric brakes.
  • Safety chains & couplers – For peace of mind and legal compliance.
  • Cargo carriers & bike racks – Perfect for extra storage or recreational use.
  • Hitch locks & covers – Protect and prolong the life of your hitch system.

Our staff will help you pair the right accessories to your hitch so you’re fully equipped for the road.

Choosing the Right Hitch in Calgary

The right hitch depends on your vehicle, trailer weight, and how you plan to use it.

At Calgary Hitch Shop, we combine expert advice with the widest inventory of trailer hitches and towing accessories in the city. Whether you’re upgrading for work, setting out on an RV adventure, or needing a custom build, we’ll get you set up safely and reliably.

Visit us today to explore the different Types Of Hitches Available In Calgary, and discover why we’ve been Calgary’s trusted hitch experts for over 25 years.