Best Way To Tow A Car Behind A Truck: Practical Features for Easier Everyday Use

A strong choice for towing a car behind a truck delivers the right connection type, enough rated capacity, and practical handling for your specific setup. For controlled vehicle-to-vehicle towing, a rigid tow bar is the most relevant category in this selection, while recovery straps and shackles suit short, slow recovery situations rather than routine transport. Hitch ball mounts help only when the car is on a compatible trailer, and hitch steps add access or bumper protection instead of towing capability.

The products here range from the 5,500-pound VEVOR tow bar to the 10,000-pound Blue Ox Avail, plus recovery equipment and adjustable mounts. Check receiver size, connection points, vehicle instructions, and every applicable capacity rating before choosing.

The best way to tow a car behind a truck is to use a properly matched tow bar for a vehicle designed for flat towing, not a recovery strap as a permanent connection. The Blue Ox Avail is rated to 10,000 pounds and includes safety cables, while the VEVOR tow bar is rated to 5,500 pounds and includes chains. Use a strap or recovery kit only for controlled recovery, and use a ball mount when the car is loaded on a compatible trailer.

Truck Towing Gear Comparison

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	VEVOR Tow Bar, 5500 lbs Towing Capacity with Chains, Towing Bar Black Best for: Direct car towing Brand: VEVOR | Compatible with Vehicle Type: RV, Truck	View on Amazon
Best Pick 2	Nylon Tow Strap with Hooks 2”x20’ Car Vehicle Heavy Duty Recovery Rope 20,000 lbs Capacity Tow Rope for Car Truck Jeep ATV SUV Best for: Vehicle recovery Brand: JCHL | Color: 2inX20Ft-20,000LB	View on Amazon
Best Pick 3	Eapele Hitch Step for 2 Inch Receiver, Universal Anti Slip Bumper Guard, 600lbs Maximum Load, for Trailer Tow Truck Pickup SUV Pickup Van RV Best for: Hitch step access Brand: Eapele | Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer,Tow,Truck,Pickup,SUV,Pickup,Van,RV,Car, Sport-Utility-Vehicles	View on Amazon
Best Pick 4	VEVOR ATV UTV Trailer Tow Behind Dump Cart Best for: Trailer hauling Brand: VEVOR | Color: Orange+black	View on Amazon
Best Pick 5	B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount – Fits 2" Receiver, Tri-Ball (1-7/8" x 2" x 2-5/16"), 5" Drop, 10,000 GTW – TS10048B Best for: Adjustable hitch ball Brand: B&W | Compatible with Vehicle Type: Trailer	View on Amazon

How We Compared These Products

We compared dimensions, capacity, materials, compatibility, included components, and care requirements across many Amazon listings. These details matter because the product must fit the available space, intended use, setup requirements, and maintenance routine. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from VEVOR, JCHL, Eapele, B&W, Rhino USA, TrkWyze, and Blue Ox.

The shortlist includes products such as VEVOR Tow Bar, JCHL Nylon Tow Strap with Hooks 2”x20’ Car Vehicle Heavy Duty Recovery Rope 20, and Eapele Hitch Step for 2 Inch Receiver. Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.

Detailed Reviews: Best Way To Tow A Car Behind A Truck

1. VEVOR Tow Bar, 5500 lbs Towing Capacity with Chains, Towing Bar Black

Best for: Heavy-duty towing for RVs and trucks.

This VEVOR tow bar features a robust 5500 lbs towing capacity, constructed from heavy-duty alloy steel for reliable performance on adventures or work sites. Its glow-in-the-dark strips enhance visibility for towing day or night.

Crafted from durable alloy steel, this tow bar is built to withstand various weather conditions, offering rust-proof and corrosion-resistant properties. With a maximum towing capacity of 5500 pounds, it provides rock-solid towing stability and performance, ensuring you remain in control on any road.

Product Details

Pros

• 5500 lbs towing capacity
• Constructed from heavy-duty alloy steel
• Rust-proof and corrosion-resistant
• Includes security chains and square pins

Cons

• Item weight of 27.9 pounds may require assistance for installation.

Ideal for RV and truck owners needing a durable and stable towing solution for moderate loads, this bar is built for all-weather reliability.

2. Nylon Tow Strap with Hooks 2”x20’ Car Vehicle Heavy Duty Recovery Rope 20,000 lbs Capacity Tow Rope for Car Truck Jeep ATV SUV

Best for: High-capacity recovery strap for diverse vehicles.

This JCHL tow strap boasts a 20,000 lbs break strength capacity, made from high-tensile strength nylon for exceptional durability. Its 2-inch by 20-feet dimensions offer versatility for a wide range of towing and recovery needs.

Constructed from high-strength nylon, this strap is designed to withstand significant pressure, making it reliable for various vehicle types including cars, trucks, ATVs, and SUVs. The 20,000 lbs capacity ensures it can handle demanding recovery situations, offering a perfect length for towing and recovery.

Product Details

Pros

• 20,000 lbs break strength capacity
• Made from high-tensile strength nylon
• 2-inch by 20-feet dimensions
• Universal use for various vehicles

Cons

• Requires slow towing and avoiding sudden jerks for optimal performance.

Suitable for car, SUV, ATV, and truck owners needing a robust recovery strap for off-road or emergency situations, provided it's used with gradual tension.

3. Eapele Hitch Step for 2 Inch Receiver, Universal Anti Slip Bumper Guard, 600lbs Maximum Load, for Trailer Tow Truck Pickup SUV Pickup Van RV

Best for: Hitch step for improved vehicle access.

The Eapele hitch step provides convenient rear access to truck beds and racks, utilizing your vehicle’s 2-inch hitch receiver. Its anti-slip surface and solid steel construction offer a secure climbing aid.

Made from extremely strong 8-gauge thick steel with a powder-coated finish, this hitch step supports a maximum load of 600 lbs. It fits standard 2-inch square connectors and includes a hitch pin and clip to prevent slipping, enhancing safety when accessing your vehicle's rear.

Product Details

Pros

• Improves rear access to truck beds/racks
• Fits 2-inch hitch receivers
• 600 lbs maximum load capacity
• Powder-coated solid steel construction

Cons

• Weighs 3 pounds, which is negligible for most users but noted.

A practical accessory for truck, SUV, and RV owners seeking easier access to their cargo areas, best suited for vehicles with a 2-inch receiver.

4. VEVOR ATV UTV Trailer Tow Behind Dump Cart

Best for: Heavy-duty dump cart for ATVs and tractors.

This VEVOR ATV UTV trailer dump cart offers a substantial 1500 lb hauling capacity and 15 cu.ft of volume for efficient yard work. Its universal connection allows easy attachment to tractors, lawnmowers, ATVs, and UTVs.

Constructed from durable alloy steel with a Q195 steel frame and handle, this cart is designed for heavy-duty use and rust resistance. The increased pipe wall thickness contributes to its sturdy build, making it an efficient hauling assistant for transporting soil, mulch, or debris.

Product Details

Pros

• 1500 lb load capacity
• 15 cu.ft hauling capacity
• Universal connection for various vehicles
• Durable, heavy-duty, rust-resistant construction

Cons

• Item weighs 112.4 pounds, requiring some effort to maneuver when empty.

Perfect for homeowners with ATVs, UTVs, or tractors needing a robust trailer for hauling materials around property, though its weight requires attention.

5. B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount – Fits 2″ Receiver, Tri-Ball (1-7/8″ x 2″ x 2-5/16″), 5″ Drop, 10,000 GTW – TS10048B

Best for: Adjustable tri-ball hitch for versatile towing.

The B&W Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount features a tri-ball design (1-7/8", 2", 2-5/16") and a 5" drop for level towing. Its adjustable height allows for ideal positioning with various vehicle and trailer combinations.

Constructed from alloy steel with a black powder-coating over a zinc phosphate base, this hitch mount offers a 10,000 GTW capacity. The unique stow feature allows it to rotate under the vehicle, preventing shin or garage door impacts when not in use.

Product Details

Pros

• Adjustable height for level towing
• Tri-ball design for multiple trailer sizes
• Stows under the vehicle when not in use
• 10,000 lbs GTW capacity

Cons

• Item weight of 25 pounds may require two people for secure installation.

Ideal for trailer owners needing a versatile and adjustable hitch mount that can accommodate different trailer couplers and store conveniently, up to 10,000 lbs.

6. Rhino USA Adjustable Trailer Hitch (2in Receiver) – 6in Drop/Rise

Best for: Adjustable hitch with high towing capacity.

The Rhino USA Adjustable Trailer Hitch offers a 6-inch drop/rise and supports a 5670 kg towing capacity, featuring a reversible 2-5/16" ball. This American-owned product is built for industry-leading strength.

Made from aluminum, this hitch is designed for trucks and trailers, providing a GTW towing capacity of 8,000 lbs. Its adjustable drop/rise feature ensures proper alignment for level towing, while the robust construction supports demanding towing applications.

Product Details

Pros

• 6-inch drop/rise adjustment
• Supports 5670 kg (approx. 12,500 lbs) GTW
• Reversible 2-5/16" ball
• Durable aluminum construction

Cons

• Contains chemicals known to California to cause cancer and reproductive harm.

A strong choice for truck owners needing an adjustable hitch for varied towing heights and capacities up to 8,000 lbs GTW, with a focus on USA-based support.

7. Tow Hitch Step, Anti-Slip, Dual-Layer Rust Protection

Best for: Compact hitch step for truck and SUV access.

This TrkWyze hitch step provides elevated access to truck rooftops and racks with a 350 lbs weight capacity. Its compact design doubles as a rear bumper guard, shielding against minor impacts.

Constructed from alloy steel with dual-layer rust protection, this step features raised traction holes for secure footing during loading or washing. The smaller footprint prevents bulky overhang, offering full protection and easier access to your truck or SUV.

Product Details

Pros

• 350 lbs weight capacity
• Dual-layer rust protection
• Anti-slip traction holes
• Compact design with bumper guard function

Cons

• Maximum towing capacity is 350 pounds, limiting its use for heavy towing.

Ideal for truck and SUV owners seeking enhanced access and minor rear protection, this hitch step is best for utility rather than heavy towing applications.

8. Blue Ox BX7420 Avail Tow Bar 2″ Receiver | Tows Up to 10,000 lbs | Self-Aligning Tow Bar Steel Construction | Easy Fold and Store in RV | Safety Cables Included | Cinnamon Coffee Metallic Color

Best for: Self-aligning tow bar for RVs.

The Blue Ox Avail tow bar is a Class IV, 10,000 lbs capacity unit constructed from steel, featuring a self-aligning design for easy hook-up on wide or narrow towed vehicles. It collapses for convenient storage in RVs.

With its steel construction and 10,000 lbs maximum towing capacity, this tow bar ensures stable towing for RVs and trailers. The self-aligning legs and non-binding latches simplify setup and unhooking, even on uneven terrain, while rubber boots protect against dirt.

Product Details

Pros

• 10,000 lbs towing capacity
• Self-aligning for easy hook-up
• Collapsible legs for easy storage
• Includes safety cables

Cons

• Weighs 45 pounds, requiring careful handling during installation and storage.

Best for RV owners flat-towing vehicles up to 10,000 lbs, this tow bar offers easy setup and storage, though its weight necessitates secure handling.

9. Rhino USA Recovery Combo Kit – 30ft Tow Strap & D-Ring Shackles

Best for: Heavy-duty recovery kit for off-road.

This Rhino USA Recovery Combo Kit includes a 30ft tow strap with a 31,518 lbs break strength and two 20+ ton D-ring shackles, offering robust equipment for off-road recovery situations. It's designed for confidence and peace of mind.

The kit features a lab-inspected tow strap and shackles with high load capacities, ensuring reliable performance when extracting vehicles from challenging terrain. Constructed with chromoly steel and alloy steel hardware, it's built for durability in demanding off-road environments.

Product Details

Pros

• 31,518 lbs break strength strap
• 41,850 lbs capacity D-ring shackles
• Durable chromoly and alloy steel construction
• Unlimited Lifetime Warranty

Cons

• Confirm the listed dimensions, compatibility, and included components against the intended setup.

An excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts needing a reliable recovery kit for trucks and UTVs, provided the stated load capacity is clarified for specific use.

10. B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount – Fits 2.5″ Receiver, Dual Ball (2″ x 2-5/16″), 5″ Drop, 18,000 GTW – TS20037B

Best for: 2.5-inch receiver hitch for heavy towing.

The B&W Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount is designed for 2.5-inch receivers, featuring a dual-ball mount (2" x 2-5/16") and a 5" drop. It supports an 18,000 GTW, making it suitable for substantial towing needs.

Constructed from alloy steel, this hitch ball mount offers a high 18,000 lbs GTW capacity, ensuring robust connection for heavy trailers. The adjustable height and stowable design provide flexibility and convenience, while the dual-ball configuration accommodates different trailer coupler sizes.

Product Details

Pros

• 18,000 lbs GTW capacity
• Fits 2.5-inch receivers
• Dual-ball mount (2" & 2-5/16")
• Adjustable height and stowable design

Cons

• Item weight of 25 pounds may require assistance for secure installation.

Ideal for heavy-duty truck owners with 2.5-inch receivers needing a versatile and high-capacity hitch for towing trailers up to 18,000 lbs, offering convenient storage.

What Buyers Often Overlook

Tow bar, recovery strap, or trailer hitch: which connection fits the job?

A rigid tow bar is the relevant choice for routine flat towing when the towed vehicle and truck are equipped for that connection. The Blue Ox Avail uses a 2-inch receiver, has steel construction, a 10,000-pound tow limit, self-aligning operation, folding legs, and included safety cables. The VEVOR tow bar is an alloy-steel option rated to 5,500 pounds and includes two security chains.

A nylon tow strap is a different tool: the JCHL strap is 20 feet long with a stated 20,000-pound break strength, while the Rhino USA kit adds a 30-foot strap and D-ring shackles. Those products are described for towing or recovery and should not be treated as equivalent to a rigid flat-tow system.

A hitch ball mount, such as the B&W models, connects a trailer to the truck; it does not directly attach a car for four-wheel-down towing.

The Key Product Trade-Off

How capacity and receiver fit change the practical choice

Capacity and receiver compatibility should be checked before convenience features. The Blue Ox Avail is rated to 10,000 pounds and fits a 2-inch receiver, while the VEVOR tow bar is rated to 5,500 pounds and is listed for RV and truck use. Adjustable ball mounts address a different fit problem: the B&W TS10048B fits a 2-inch receiver, offers a 5-inch drop, three ball sizes, and a 10,000-pound gross trailer weight rating; the B&W TS20037B fits a 2.5-inch receiver and is listed at 18,000 GTW with dual balls.

Rhino USA’s adjustable hitch is listed with a 6-inch drop/rise and an 8,000-pound 2-inch ball capacity, but its specifications also list a 5,670-kilogram maximum towing capacity, so the applicable rating must be confirmed for the complete setup. Do not use hitch steps as towing hardware: their listed loads are 350 or 600 pounds and their purpose is access or bumper protection.

Best Way To Tow A Car Behind A Truck: Buyer's Guide

Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility

Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.

Capacity, Output, and Operating Format

Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.

Materials, Construction, and Care

Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.

Included Components and Setup Needs

Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose the Blue Ox Avail when a compatible flat-towing setup needs the highest listed tow-bar capacity, self-alignment, folding storage, and included safety cables. Choose the VEVOR tow bar when a truck or RV setup falls within 5,500 pounds and included security chains are useful. Choose the JCHL strap or Rhino USA recovery kit for recovery-oriented use where a flexible strap, length, and shackles matter; they are not substitutes for a rigid flat-tow connection.

Choose the B&W or Rhino USA adjustable ball mount when the car travels on a trailer and the truck needs receiver-size, height, or ball-size adjustment. Choose an Eapele or TrkWyze hitch step only for rear access or bumper protection, not for towing the car.

Quick Buying Checklist

• Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
• Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
• Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
• Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
• Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
• Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest way to tow a car behind a truck?

The safest method involves using a dedicated tow bar and a braking system for the towed vehicle. Ensure all connections are secure and rated for the weight of the car. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for both the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle.

Can I tow a car with just a tow strap?

Tow straps are designed for recovery, not for towing a car behind a truck over long distances or at highway speeds. They lack the rigidity and safety features of a tow bar, making it a dangerous and illegal practice in many areas.

What is the difference between a tow bar and a tow strap?

A tow bar is a rigid, connecting device that attaches to both vehicles, allowing for controlled towing. A tow strap is a flexible rope designed for pulling vehicles out of ditches or mud, not for sustained, controlled towing.

Do I need special equipment to tow a car?

Yes, for safe and legal towing, you typically need a tow bar designed for the vehicle’s weight, safety cables, and often a braking system for the towed car. Ensure your truck’s hitch is rated for the load.

How do I choose the right tow bar capacity?

Select a tow bar with a capacity that significantly exceeds the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the car you intend to tow. It’s crucial to err on the side of caution to ensure safety and prevent equipment failure.

Final Words

For safely towing a car behind a truck, a dedicated tow bar system is the recommended choice. While straps are for recovery, tow bars provide the necessary stability and control. Consider adjustable hitch mounts for versatile towing needs, ensuring all components are rated for your vehicle’s weight.