Tow hitchChina

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of China. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


82. Tow hitch

A tow hitch, also called a trailer hitch or towing coupling, is a device fitted to a vehicle so that a trailer, caravan or other towable vehicle can be securely connected to it. Passenger cars commonly use a tow ball, while heavier vehicles may use other types of mechanical coupling.

The tow hitch and towing vehicle must be suitable for the trailer and the loads involved. Drivers must respect the vehicle's approved towing capacity, the coupling limits, trailer mass and any applicable driving-licence, braking and safety requirements.

Tow hitch
Weight-distribution and sway-control trailer hitch for towing trailers and recreational vehicles.
Wikimedia.org • Tony Webster • CC BY
What is a tow hitch?

A tow hitch is a mechanical coupling fitted to a vehicle so that a trailer, caravan or other towable vehicle can be attached.

🔗 cdn.group.renault.com • Dacia Sandero, Stepway and Jogger owner’s manual, pages 6.6–6.8, weights, towing and tow-ball loads; model-specific example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 30 and Annex 5, vehicle connections; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Article 2, licence and trailer categories; national example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, trailers and towing equipment, breakaway/secondary coupling; GB example

What is the maximum load on a tow hitch?

The permitted load depends on the vehicle and coupling. The coupling normally has specified maximum towing and vertical-load ratings that must not be exceeded.

🔗 cdn.group.renault.com • Dacia Sandero, Stepway and Jogger owner’s manual, pages 6.6–6.8, weights, towing and tow-ball loads; model-specific example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 30 and Annex 5, vehicle connections; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Article 2, licence and trailer categories; national example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, trailers and towing equipment, breakaway/secondary coupling; GB example

Does a trailer need a secondary safety connection?

Depending on the trailer's braking system and local law, a safety cable, chain or breakaway system may be required in addition to the main coupling.

🔗 cdn.group.renault.com • Dacia Sandero, Stepway and Jogger owner’s manual, pages 6.6–6.8, weights, towing and tow-ball loads; model-specific example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, towing weight and width limits; GB example

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Articles 1, 30 and Annex 5, vehicle connections; international framework subject to national law

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgium, Driving Licence Decree of 23 March 1998, Article 2, licence and trailer categories; national example

🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, trailers and towing equipment, breakaway/secondary coupling; GB example

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