Most tow hitch installations are pretty straightforward, which is why U-Haul, Pep Boys, or Amazon will work for most jobs. Hitches fall into five classes (I–V) based on towing capacity. The greater the weight capacity, the higher the class.
For example, class I hitches can tow only small trailers (up to 2,000 pounds), while class V hitches have 10,000- to 20,000-pound capacities and can tow things like large campers and heavy construction equipment.
A few factors complicate tow installation: the make and model of your car, the amount of weight you’re planning to tow, and whether your vehicle is compatible with standard hitches.
We won’t get too in the weeds about each tow hitch type, but know that if your installation is on the complicated side, it might take more work to find an auto mechanic or hitch installer who can help (and who is familiar with equipment like wheel hinges and goosenecks, for example).