Tow Vehicle Capacity and Hitch Requirements
for Car Hauler Rentals
The combined weight of a loaded car hauler, the trailer itself plus the vehicle on it, typically runs between 5,000 and 8,000 pounds for a standard passenger car. That range requires the tow vehicle to carry a towing rating that exceeds the total. One-ton trucks from the major manufacturers handle this comfortably. Three-quarter-ton trucks generally do as well, though the specific rating varies by cab configuration and engine. Mid-size trucks should be checked against their actual specifications rather than assumed capable based on size.
Hitch ball size is a separate requirement. Car hauler trailers use a 1-7/8 inch or 2-inch ball on most configurations, and the tow vehicle needs to have the correct ball size installed before pickup. A mismatched ball size prevents the coupler from seating correctly and is a safety issue that cannot be improvised around. Confirming both the towing rating and the hitch ball size before arriving at Big Rentals in Amarillo keeps the rental on schedule.