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Bumper Pull vs. Gooseneck Hitch: What’s the Difference?

Hauling stuff for a trip, relocating to a new home, or transporting heavy equipment for work- you need a trailer hitch that is safe and reliable. Bumper pulls and gooseneck hitches are the most common options. Let’s look at the differences between these two hitch types:

What is a Bumper Pull Hitch?

A bumper pull hitch is a receiver hitch that attaches to the rear of the towing vehicle. It is situated under the bumper and secured onto the vehicle's frame. Bumper pull hitches are available in different sizes and have varying weight capacities.

What is a Gooseneck Hitch?

A gooseneck hitch involves a ball and coupler system that fastens onto the frame of the towing vehicle. It attaches to the truck bed, secured with bolts. Their weight capacities are usually great, making them ideal for heavy-duty hauling.

a Lamar Trailers gooseneck flatdeck trailer

Advantages of a Bumper Pull Hitch:

a bumper pull trailer connected to a truck, hauling side by sides

Bumper pull hitches are the most common and cost-effective hitch type. They offer the following advantages:

1. Affordability: These hitches are more popular with people that have tight budgets since they are relatively inexpensive compared to gooseneck hitches.

2. Practicality: Bumper pull hitch installations are easy and do not require professional help. They can fit a multitude of towing vehicles and do not take up much space.

3. Maneuverability: Bumper pull hitches are better fits for smaller towing vehicles, providing greater maneuverability, which is ideal for smaller trailers. Turning sharp corners and driving through narrower spaces is easier with a bumper pull hitch than a gooseneck.

Advantages of a Gooseneck Hitch:

A gooseneck trailer secured to a truck, hauling a tractor

If you need to haul large or heavy loads with your trailer, gooseneck hitches are the best option, here are a few of the reasons:

1. Stability: Since gooseneck hitches mount on the towing vehicle's frame, they are more stable and experience less swaying/fishtailing than bumper pull hitches. This detail is critical whenever considering hauling heavy or lengthy trailers. Increased stability is key whenever aiming for a smooth and safe ride, despite pulling a heavy-duty trailer.

2. Capacity: Gooseneck hitches will generally outmatch bumper pull hitches regarding the amount of weight they can carry. If the job is tough or heavy, a gooseneck hitch is probably the way to go.

3. Compatibility: Gooseneck hitches can attach to a variety of diverse vehicles. Although, on occasion, a professional will need to assist in attaching the hitch to the vehicle.

When to Use a Bumper Pull Hitch:

You should use a bumper pull hitch if you have a small towing vehicle with low towing capacity and if you need to tow smaller trailers that are meant to haul things such as a small boat or a pop-up camper.

Bumper pull hitches are ideal for individuals working with tight budgets, in need of quicker installation, and driving short distances. (Especially whenever maneuverability is necessary.)

When to Use a Gooseneck Hitch:

Gooseneck hitches are better suited to heavy loads, long distance journeys, larger trailers, and vehicles. They offer greater trailer stability and higher weight capacities, resulting in smoother and safer journeys for both you and your vehicle.

By understanding the differences between bumper pull and gooseneck hitches, you can make an informed decision on which hitch type best suits your needs.

It is critical that you prioritize safety by ensuring secure attachment and evenly distributed weight (you can visit our blog over safe trailer weight distribution for more information.) Lastly, never forget to consider your vehicle hookups, towing distance, the weight of what you are towing, and your budget before making any final decision.