The most important four letters here are GCWR. This stands for Gross Combined Weight Rating, and refers to the weight not only of the vehicle, passengers and cargo, but also the trailer and its load. This number is determined by a car or truck manufacturer to be the maximum safe weight that a vehicle can tote all-in, so it's important not to exceed this guideline. read more

Flat trailers: When towing cars, all-terrain vehicles or general cargo, a flat-floor trailer works just fine. Single-axle trailers are better for light loads, up to about 2,500 pounds, while double-axle trailers are best for heavier items. Enclosed trailers are better for hauling general cargo, but are heavier than open trailers. read more

Most cars and crossovers come with Class 1, 2 or 3 hitches, while larger trucks and SUVs can be equipped with Class 3, 4 or 5 hitches. Each conventional hitch has a different sized receiver tube. This is where the ball and ball mount go. read more

Secure the ball mount in the hitch's receiver tube.

Line up the vehicle so it's directly in front of the trailer coupler.

Be sure the trailer coupler is higher than the ball on the hitch.

Back up slowly so the ball is directly under the trailer coupler. Use your vehicle's backup camera for this, or have a friend spot you.

Put the tow vehicle in park and set the parking brake.

On the trailer tongue, you'll find a twist handle that can raise or lower the metal bar/pipe -- the one your trailer rests on when not attached to a vehicle. This is called the jack. Twist the trailer jack to lower the coupler completely onto the ball.

Use the attached cotter pin on the latch to secure the coupler to the ball.

Lift up on the tongue to make sure everything is connected.

Raise the trailer jack up and out of the way completely.

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A few other things to remember:

Use ratchet straps or tie-downs to ensure your load is secure.

Adjust your mirrors. If you're towing a wide trailer and you can't see around it, consider adding telescoping tow mirrors to your vehicle.

Make sure the trailer has actual trailer tires -- not passenger car tires -- and that they are properly inflated and in good shape (plenty of tread, no dry rot, etc.). Check your vehicle's tires while you're at it, too.

Keep your trailer wheel bearings greased so as not to risk damaging the axles. read more