What Is a Hitch in the Bed of a Truck Called?

A hitch in the bed of a truck is a metal frame designed to hold and secure items such as bicycles, cargo containers, or even a trailer. Most commonly found on pickup trucks, this device is used to safely transport cargo in the bed of the truck.

A hitch can be either permanently mounted or temporarily installed. It is important to understand the type of hitch being used and its purpose before attempting to attach it to a vehicle.

The most common type of hitch is called a Class III or IV receiver hitch. This type of hitch is designed to accept square-shaped steel tubes that fit into the receiver opening at the back of the truck bed.

The tubes are often referred to as “hitches” because they are inserted into the receiver and locked in place. The tubes are then used to attach items such as bike racks, cargo containers, or trailers.

Another popular type of hitch is known as a fifth wheel hitch. This type of hitch allows for larger trailers such as RVs or boats to be towed. The fifth wheel hitch is also permanently installed in the bed of the truck and consists of two components: a king pin which connects to the trailer and an attachment plate which attaches to the frame rails underneath the truck.

It’s important for drivers who want to install a hitch in their truck beds to understand how much weight their vehicle can safely carry while still providing adequate stability while driving on uneven terrain or during inclement weather conditions. Additionally, drivers need to ensure that their tow vehicles are equipped with adequate brakes if they plan on hauling large loads.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a hitch in the bed of a truck is an essential item for those who need it for hauling items such as bikes, cargo containers, or trailers. There are several types available depending on what needs to be transported and how much weight will be carried by the vehicle. It’s important for drivers who plan on using hitches in their trucks beds to understand how much weight their vehicle can safely carry and ensure that it is equipped with adequate brakes if needed.

Photo of author

Susan Delgado