What size hitch for a U-Haul 5x8 trailer?
Check your vehicle against this trailer
U-Haul 5x8 cargo trailer specs
| Empty weight | 900 lbs |
| Max load | 1,800 lbs |
| Max combined weight (trailer + load) | 2,700 lbs |
| Brakes | None listed |
| Hitch ball | 1-7/8" or 2" (2,000 lbs minimum) |
| Max towing speed | 55 mph |
| Lights | 4-way flat |
Source: U-Haul 5x8 cargo trailer rental page.
Hitch classes (CURT)
| Class | Gross trailer weight |
|---|---|
| Class 1 | up to 2,000 lbs |
| Class 2 | up to 3,500 lbs |
| Class 3 | up to 8,000 lbs |
| Class 4 | up to 10,000 lbs |
Source: CURT, types of trailer hitches. More: hitch class and ball ratings data.
U-Haul's vehicle weight rule
U-Haul's trailer user instructions say your vehicle can tow a trailer without brakes if the loaded trailer doesn't exceed the vehicle's curb (empty) weight, and a braked trailer if the vehicle's curb weight is at least 80% of the loaded trailer. For this trailer that means at least the loaded trailer weight (trailer without brakes). CURT puts tongue weight at about 10 to 15% of gross trailer weight; see the tongue weight guide.
The 6x12 is the next size up and has surge brakes: hitch for a U-Haul 6x12.
Towing a bike? See what size hitch for a U-Haul motorcycle trailer.
All U-Haul rentals in one place: what size hitch for a U-Haul trailer.