How to Measure Trailer Hitch Drop and Rise for Level Towing

A trailer that sits noticeably nose-high or nose-low is a sign to check your ball mount height. You can estimate the drop or rise you need with two measurements before choosing a hitch. Here is a practical way to measure, compare, and verify the fit.

1. Measure your vehicle's receiver height

Park the tow vehicle on level ground in its usual towing condition. Measure from the ground to the top inside edge of the hitch receiver opening. Write this number down as A. For example, A might be 24 inches. Measure at the receiver, not at the bumper or license plate.

2. Measure the trailer's coupler height

On the same level surface, use the trailer jack to make the trailer level front to back. Measure from the ground to the bottom of the coupler, where it will sit on the hitch ball. Call this measurement B. Check the coupler's stamped ball-size marking while you are there.

3. Calculate drop or rise

Compare the two measurements:

• Receiver higher than coupler: You need a drop close to A minus B. A 24-inch receiver and an 18-inch coupler call for about 6 inches of drop.
• Coupler higher than receiver: You need a rise close to B minus A. A 16-inch receiver and a 19-inch coupler call for about 3 inches of rise.
• Measurements nearly equal: Start with a straight or low-offset mount, then check the trailer once coupled.

These numbers are a starting point. Mount dimensions are measured in specific ways by each manufacturer, so compare the stated drop or rise with the product diagram before buying.

4. Check the trailer after coupling

Install the correct hitch ball and mount according to their instructions, couple the trailer, and lower the jack fully. Step back and check whether the trailer is approximately level. Cargo and tongue weight can lower the rear of the tow vehicle, so a measurement taken with an empty vehicle may change under load. If the trailer sits noticeably out of level, measure again in the loaded towing condition and choose the appropriate height. Follow the trailer and vehicle manufacturers' loading and towing instructions.

Fixed or adjustable ball mount?

A fixed mount is a simple choice when you tow one trailer at a consistent height. For example, the AC-DK 2-inch-drop ball mount fits a 2-inch receiver and includes a 2-5/16-inch ball. It is only a match if those dimensions and its ratings suit your setup.

If you tow trailers with different coupler heights, an adjustable mount can save you from swapping fixed mounts. The TYT adjustable trailer hitch is offered for a 2-inch receiver with up to 6 inches of drop or rise. Check the selected ball size and product instructions before ordering. You can also compare the OpenHeavy trailer hitches and towing gear collection.

Check compatibility and ratings before towing

• Match the mount shank to your receiver size and the hitch ball diameter to the size stamped on the trailer coupler.
• Check the gross trailer weight and tongue weight ratings for the vehicle, receiver hitch, ball mount, and ball. Stay within the lowest applicable rating.
• Use the specified hitch pin and clip or lock, secure the coupler latch, and connect safety chains and trailer wiring as directed by their manufacturers.
• Use a mount in the rise position only if its manufacturer permits that orientation. Do not assume every drop mount can be flipped.

Quick questions

Is a 6-inch drop right for every truck or SUV?

No. The required drop depends on your actual receiver and level-trailer coupler heights. Measure both before selecting a mount.

Should I measure with the trailer loaded?

Use the trailer's normal towing setup when possible. After coupling and loading, check the trailer's level again because suspension compression can change the effective height.

For more detail on the measurement method, see CURT's ball mount selection guide.