Whether you’re hauling a small camper, a utility trailer, or a bike rack, a reliable trailer hitch transforms your van into a true workhorse. Choosing the right hitch means matching your van’s make, model, and towing needs.
This guide reviews five top trailer hitches for popular vans, from the Ford Transit to the Chevy Express. We break down each hitch’s strengths, fitment, and key features to help you make an informed decision.
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CURT 13193 Class 3 Trailer Hitch – Custom Fit for Transit
The CURT 13193 is a vehicle-specific hitch designed for 2015-2026 Ford Transit and E-Transit vans. Its round tube main body offers a clean, custom fit, and the 2-inch receiver provides a solid foundation for towing. Rated at 6,000 lbs GTW and 900 lbs TW, it handles medium-duty loads like small trailers or campers. With a weight distribution system, capacity jumps to 8,000 lbs GTW, giving you extra flexibility for heavier hauls.
Installation is straightforward with the included hardware, though you’ll need to purchase the ball mount and ball separately. The hitch is built from steel with a corrosion-resistant finish, ensuring long-term durability. Remember to never exceed your vehicle’s weight rating. For Transit owners seeking a dependable, custom-fit hitch, this CURT model delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
- Vehicle-specific custom fit
- High 8,000 lb WD capacity
- Durable steel construction
- Ball mount sold separately
- Not for vertical bike racks
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- Hitch Ball and Ball Mount sold separately
- Never exceed vehicle weight rating
- Round tube main body
- Gross Trailer Weights (GTW) and Tongue Weights (TW) vary by application
ALMULOO Class 3 Hitch – Budget-Friendly for Chevy/GMC
The ALMULOO Class 3 hitch is a cost-effective option for 1996-2023 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans. It features a heavy-duty steel body with a black powder-coated finish that resists rust and chips. The 2-inch receiver is versatile, accepting cargo racks, bike racks, and tow hooks. Rated at 5,000 lbs GTW (7,500 lbs with weight distribution), it suits lighter towing tasks like small boats or utility trailers.
Installation is simple with the included hardware, but you should carefully review the instructions before starting. The hitch’s universal design means it fits a wide range of model years, making it a great pick for older vans. While it lacks the premium finish of pricier models, it offers solid value for budget-conscious van owners who need a reliable hitch for occasional towing.
- Affordable price point
- Versatile 2-inch receiver
- Rust-resistant powder coat
- Lower 5,000 lb GTW rating
- Basic instructions
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- Fitment: This Class 3 Trailer Hitch Compatible with 1996-2023 Chevrolet Express 1500 2500 3500; Compatible with 1996-2023 GMC Savana 1500 2500 3500
- Feature: This heavy-duty steel trailer hitch features a durable black powder-coated finish, rated for a maximum gross trailer weight of 5000 lbs (7500 lbs with weight distribution) and a maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs (750 lbs with weight distribution)
- Function:This heavy-duty trailer hitch provides a standard 2-inch square receiver, offering versatile mounting for cargo racks, bike racks, tow hooks, and various other accessories. Constructed from robust steel and finished with a durable black powder coat, it delivers superior protection and exceptional resistance to rust, ensuring reliable performance and longevity even under demanding outdoor conditions and rigorous work environments
- Installation: Installation is straightforward using the included hardware; however, it is essential to thoroughly review the provided installation instructions before beginning, as they contain critical information and specific guidance. For optimal performance, professional installation is highly recommended
- Package: 1 x Trailer Hitch including instruction manual and mounting hardware
CURT 13295 Class 3 Hitch – Sleek Fit for Ram ProMaster
The CURT 13295 is engineered specifically for Ram ProMaster 1500, 2500, and 3500 vans. Its concealed main body gives an OE look that integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s undercarriage. Rated at 5,000 lbs GTW and 500 lbs TW, it’s ideal for towing small trailers or carrying bike racks. The hitch is tested to SAE J684 standards, ensuring safety and reliability.
Installation is straightforward thanks to the vehicle-specific design, which eliminates guesswork. The black powder-coated finish resists corrosion, while the 2-inch receiver accepts a wide range of accessories. This hitch is perfect for ProMaster owners who want a clean, factory-like appearance without sacrificing towing capability. It’s a premium choice that balances aesthetics with function.
- Concealed OE-style design
- SAE J684 safety tested
- Easy vehicle-specific install
- Only 500 lb tongue weight
- Not for heavy trailers
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- Rated to 5,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 500 lbs. tongue weight
- Engineered with a vehicle-specific design for a custom fit
- Concealed main body for OE look and seamless integration with the vehicle
- Tested for safety in accordance with SAE J684
- Precisely welded for superior strength and fit
CURT 13040 Class 3 Hitch – Heavy-Duty for Chevy/GMC Vans
The CURT 13040 is a robust class 3 hitch for 1996-2026 Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans. It boasts a 6,000 lb GTW, 600 lb TW, and an impressive 10,000 lb weight distribution capacity. The 2-inch receiver is versatile, though it’s not compatible with vertical hanging bike racks. The hitch is tested in real-world conditions at CURT’s Detroit facility, ensuring it meets SAE J684 standards.
The dual-coat finish—a rust-resistant A-coat plus a powder topcoat—protects against chips and UV damage. Installation uses vehicle-specific brackets for a custom fit. This hitch excels for van owners who tow heavier loads, like large campers or equipment trailers. Its high WD capacity makes it a top choice for serious towing, backed by rigorous testing and durable construction.
- 10,000 lb WD capacity
- Rust-resistant dual-coat finish
- Real-world safety tested
- Not for vertical bike racks
- Heavier than some models
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- DEPENDABLE STRENGTH — This trailer hitch is rated for 6,000 lbs. gross trailer weight, 600 lbs. tongue weight, 10,000 lbs. weight distribution capacity and 1,000 lbs. weight distribution tongue weight (limited to lowest-rated towing component)
- VERSATILE DESIGN — This class 3 hitch equips your vehicle with a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver (not compatible with vertical hanging bikes / bike racks that require the bikes to be hung / mounted vertically)
- FULLY TESTED — Every CURT class 3 trailer hitch design is tested in real-world, on-vehicle conditions at our Detroit engineering facility. Aftermarket hitches are tested according to SAE J684 standards for the utmost safety while hauling
- RUST, CHIP, UV-RESISTANT — This tow hitch is protected with a unique dual-coat finish of rust-resistant liquid A-coat and highly durable black powder coat. The two finishes are co-cured together for exceptional resistance to rust, chipping and UV rays
- EASY TO INSTALL — This hitch offers a custom, factory fit on select model years of the Express 1500, 2500 or 3500 and Savana 1500, 2500 or 3500. Cross-references part #75189 (reference only). Verify fitment by year/make/model.
CURT 15320 Class 5 Hitch – Extreme Towing for Vans
The CURT 15320 is a class 5 Xtra Duty hitch designed for maximum towing capacity. Rated at 16,000 lbs GTW and 2,400 lbs TW, it handles the heaviest loads like large travel trailers or flatbeds. It’s compatible with weight distribution hitches, boosting capacity to 17,000 lbs WD. The vehicle-specific design ensures a custom fit for select vans, though you should verify compatibility.
Built from heavy-duty steel and tested to SAE J684 standards, this hitch is built for extreme use. The 2-inch receiver is robust, and the finish resists corrosion. Installation requires careful attention due to the hitch’s size and weight. For van owners who tow massive loads regularly, this hitch offers unmatched strength. It’s overkill for light towing but perfect for those who need maximum capability.
- 16,000 lb GTW rating
- 17,000 lb WD compatible
- SAE J684 safety tested
- Very heavy and bulky
- Overkill for light towing
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- Rated to 16,000 lbs. gross trailer weight and 2,400 lbs. tongue weight
- Compatible with weight distribution hitch (17,000 lbs. WD / 2,400 lbs. WDTW)
- Engineered with a vehicle-specific design for a custom fit
- Tested for safety in accordance with SAE J684
- Precisely welded for superior strength and fit
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right trailer hitch for your van involves several key factors. Here’s what to consider before making a purchase.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure the hitch fits your van's make, model, and year. Vehicle-specific designs like CURT's offer a custom fit, while universal options may require modifications.
- Towing Capacity: Check the gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW) ratings. Match these to your trailer's weight, and consider weight distribution (WD) for heavier loads.
- Hitch Class: Class 3 hitches handle up to 6,000 lbs GTW, while class 5 hitches exceed 10,000 lbs. Choose based on your typical towing needs.
- Receiver Size: Most hitches use a 2-inch receiver, which fits standard accessories like bike racks and cargo carriers. Ensure compatibility with your gear.
- Installation and Finish: Look for hitches with included hardware and corrosion-resistant finishes. Powder-coated or dual-coat finishes offer better durability against rust and UV damage.
Conclusion
Selecting the best trailer hitch for your van depends on your vehicle and towing needs. For Ford Transit owners, the CURT 13193 offers a custom fit and solid capacity. Chevy/GMC van drivers can choose between the budget-friendly ALMULOO or the heavy-duty CURT 13040. Ram ProMaster users will appreciate the sleek CURT 13295.
For maximum towing power, the CURT 15320 class 5 hitch is unmatched. Always verify fitment and never exceed your van’s weight rating. With the right hitch, you’ll tow safely and confidently.