Receiver Hitch vs Step Bumper: What Are Their Differences?

(Last Updated On: March 15, 2024)

The types of trailer hitches that are compatible with your vehicle are reliant on the type of bumper it possesses. In deciding the kind of trailer hitch suitable for your pickup truck, the kind of bumper on your vehicle is a key consideration.

With that in mind, this article will look into the differences between step bumpers and receiver hitches, as well as provide you with their buying guides.

Understanding Step Bumper and Receiver Hitch

Step bumper and Receiver hitch are the important components of the vehicle. For this reason, it is only essential to understand what a step bumper and a receiver hitch are.

What is a step bumper?

Just as its name implies, a step bumper is a bumper that has a step built into its frame. You will find a step bumper on vans, SUVs, and trucks. This bumper is characterized by holes for hitch balls, which can help in towing lightweight trailers.

What is a receiver hitch?

Probably the most common type of trailer hitch, a receiver hitch provides a tube for attaching a ball mount and bolts onto the underside of a vehicle. They are generally designed specifically for a vehicle. There are five classes of a receiver hitch.

If you wish to know more about how these classes compare, below is a table that lists their Towing Capacity and Gross Trailer Weight, as well as the recommended vehicles:

Hitch Class	Receiver Tube	Towing Capacity	Gross Trailer Weight Capacity	Recommended Vehicles
Class 1	1 1⁄4 in	200 lbs	2000 lbs	Cars & crossovers
Class 2	1 1⁄4 in	350 lbs	3500 lbs	Cars, crossovers & minivans
Class 3	2 in	800 lbs	8000 lbs	Crossover, vans, large SUVs & full-size pickups
Class 4	2 in	1000 lbs	10,000 lbs	Full-size 3/4 – 1 ton pickups
Class 5 (Xtra Duty)	2 in	2550 lbs	16,000 – 17,000 lbs	Trucks & SUVs
Class 5 (Commercial Duty)	2 1⁄2 in	2700 lbs	18,000 -20,000 lbs	Dually & chassis cab trucks

What Are The Differences Between a Step Bumper And a Receiver Hitch?

Primary purpose

A step bumper and receiver hitch find their basic differences in their purpose. While a step bumper is not designed to function primarily as a towing hitch, the main purpose of the receiver hitch is to serve various towing purposes. This makes the latter a better choice if you wish to do any heavy towing.

Conditions when you need either of them

You need a bumper to tow light loads. Typically, step bumpers have a 5,000 lbs towing capacity rating. You should also choose a step bumper once you cannot afford a full-sized cargo trailer.

On the other hand, purchasing a receiver hitch is better if you want to tow heavy loads. You should understand that a receiver hitch is great for dragging too heavy or big cargo for a pickup truck bed.

How To Choose a Step Bumper

You should purchase a step bumper to tow lighter vehicles and smaller trailers. There are several considerations that must not be ignored when you plan to buy a step bumper:

Weight carrying capacity

Typically, a step bumper can tow as much as 5,000 lbs of total trailer weight, as well as 500 lbs of tongue weight. Ensure that you carefully check the label of the bumper hitch to determine the one that is tailored to your needs.

Dimensions

Ensure that the measurement of your old bumper fits with that of your new bumper. It is worth stressing that the bumper must not obstruct other vehicle parts, including the brake light.

Material

This determines the bumper’s resistance to corrosion, as well as its durability. The best options to consider are aluminum and steel.

Ease of installation

You should only purchase a bumper that you can put together by yourself.

Now, let’s choose the one which is best for your trailer here!

How To Choose a Receiver Hitch

You should purchase a receiver hitch if you wish to haul or tow a heavy load. Commercial duty receiver hitch can tow as much as 18,000 lbs to 20,000 lbs of Gross Trailer Weight. Yet, there are several requirements you must consider before purchasing a receiver hitch:

Make measurements and determine GTW Capacity

Since a receiver hitch is reserved for heavy towing, it is vital that you take appropriate measurements and determine the Gross Trailer Weight capacity of the receiver hitch before purchasing. It would be better for above 8,000 lbs.

Select the suitable hitch class

There are five classes of receiver hitch, as introduced in the Receiver hitch class comparison chart above. Ensure that you identify the right hitch class based on the receiver tube, towing capacity, and the Gross Trailer Weight Capacity before buying a receiver hitch.

After considering all those features, it’s time to shopping!

FAQs

Can I tow a trailer with a bumper hitch?

Yes, you can tow a trailer with a bumper hitch. However, in some states like New Jersey, this is illegal.

How much weight can a bumper hitch handle?

A bumper hitch can tow as much as 6,000 lbs, with a weight distribution system installed.

How do I know what hitch weight my truck has?

The maximum tow weight of your hitch can be found on the hitch label.

Final Words

You should understand what a step bumper and a receiver hitch are: the need for this cannot be ignored. Besides the legal ramifications behind a good choice, knowing the differences between a step bumper and a receiver hitch will tailor your purchase to your satisfaction.