Solution for Trailer Hitch that Bent in Shipping

Updated 06/02/2025 | Published 08/20/2015

Question:

The selected hitch doesnt mount correctly on my car. I just received it today and the bolts on both side do not line up. The box was ripped when it arrived.

asked by: Scott R

Expert Reply:

Sometimes hitches can get slightly bent during shipping and this can be fixed by bending the hitch back into place as long as the hitch only has a slight bend to it. If yours isn't lining up I can almost guarantee that is what happened. Some people will use open steps for leverage, vices and even car jacks to apply controlled force to bend the hitch back.

You will want to look for flaking paint and physical stress marks on the hitch before and after you attempt to bend the hitch back. If you see any of those signs on the hitch you should not use the hitch on your vehicle as it has been fatigued to the point of not being safe to use.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Bobby H.

9/1/2024

If this is so common why has the shipping packaging not changed? Mine came damaged as well. This seems like a common problem.

Jameson C.

9/3/2024

@BobbyH I wish I had a good answer for you but we have tried to advocate for better shipping materials but from what I can understand the variances in the hitch sizes/shapes/weights makes that challenging. I hope we can get it figured out at some point.

Bobby H.

9/4/2024

@JamesonC ehh from reviews and videos posted on the subject it’s been an issue for at least 6 years now I won’t hold my breathe.

Jameson C.

9/4/2024

@BobbyH Understandable. I am sorry yours was damaged though.

Terry R.

6/2/2025

Still an issue in 2025, mine showed up bent and ripped through the box, then end with the 3 holes if the affected part, the one hole is bent enough the other two don't line up with it. Should be interesting to see if I can bend it or make it fit.