Can 5 x 8 Utility Trailer be Towed Using Hitch Ball on Truck Bumper

Updated 02/08/2025 | Published 03/04/2019

Question:

Do I need a class iv receiver to tow a 5 x8 uhaul trailer or can I use ball aon my bumper?

asked by: J.D.

Expert Reply:

You might be able to tow a small 5x8 utility trailer using a hitch ball mounted to the bumper of your truck but this will depend on how heavy the loaded trailer is along with the specific bumper capacity of your vehicle. If you can tell me the year, make, and model of your truck I will be happy to try and look this up, otherwise this information should be listed in your owner's manual.

Based on my research a standard 5 x 8 utility trailer from U Haul has a gross vehicle weight of 2,700 pounds, which is the most it can weigh when fully loaded. You will just want to compare this to the specs on your truck to see if a bumper mounted hitch ball is sufficient.

If you find that your truck doesn't have enough capacity on the bumper I will be happy to recommend a trailer hitch if you can tell me what kind of truck you have.

Most bumper hitch ball holes are 3/4 inches in diameter so you will need to find one with a shank that matches this such as with the Curt 2 inch # C40018. I have also attached a link that will take you to our available selection of hitch balls with a 3/4 inch diameter shank that you can look through.

expert reply by: Chris R

Cedric

2/8/2025

I have a 2005ford f150 can I pull a 5x8 trailer with my bumper ball

Chris R.

2/8/2025

@Cedric Hey Cedric. I'd say there's a good chance the bumper hitch ball on your F-150 can handle a smaller trailer like that, but just like above, it's gonna depend on how heavy you load the trailer up. From what I could find, the bumper on your truck has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. I'd still try to verify this in your owner's manual, though.