If you tow a horse trailer, livestock hauler, flatbed, or hotshot rig, the hitch in your truck bed is the single most important piece of equipment between you and the road. After three months of testing and talking to dozens of working truck owners, our team put together this guide to the best gooseneck hitches you can buy right now.
A gooseneck hitch mounts a 2-5/16 inch ball directly over the rear axle of your pickup. That placement gives you tighter turning clearance, better weight distribution, and dramatically improved stability compared to a bumper pull. We focused on seven hitches that balance build quality, capacity, and real-world install experience for half-ton, three-quarter-ton, and one-ton trucks.
Whether you drive a Ford F-250, a Chevy Silverado HD, a GMC Sierra, or a Ram 3500, the seven models below cover every common use case. We rated each one on fitment, capacity, chucking, ease of install, and bed space when not in use. Here is what we found.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Gooseneck Hitches (August 2026)
B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball GNRK1116
- 30K GTW
- Ford F250/F350 specific
- No-drill install
- Flip-over ball
CURT 60692 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit
- 30K GTW
- 7.5K vertical load
- Drop-in install
- Storage case
ECOTRIC Gooseneck Hitch for Ford F250/F350
- 30K GTW
- 7.5K vertical load
- Flip-over ball
- 1999-2016 fit
Best Gooseneck Hitches in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| B&W Turnoverball GNRK1116 |
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Check Latest Price |
 CURT 60639 OEM Puck Hitch Kit |
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| CURT 60692 OEM Puck Hitch Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
 B&W Turnoverball GNRK1320 |
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 CURT 60734 Double Lock Kit |
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 CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Hitch |
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| ECOTRIC Gooseneck for Ford F250/F350 |
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Check Latest Price |
What Is a Gooseneck Hitch and How Does It Work
A gooseneck hitch is a heavy-duty trailer hitch that mounts a 2-5/16 inch ball inside the bed of a pickup truck. The trailer side uses a gooseneck coupler that drops over the ball and locks in place. Because the hitch point sits directly over the rear axle, the trailer tracks tighter in turns and puts more of its tongue weight onto the drive tires.
Most gooseneck hitches use a 2-5/16 inch ball, which is the industry standard for heavy-duty towing. Capacity ratings typically run from 25,000 to 38,000 lbs gross trailer weight with vertical load limits between 6,000 and 9,500 lbs. The vertical load number is what matters most because it directly affects your payload rating.
There are three main install types you will see in our picks below. A puck system hitch drops into factory mounting points in your bed with no tools. A traditional underbed hitch bolts to the frame using existing holes. A 5th wheel rail adapter mounts onto existing 5th wheel base rails. We explain the pros and cons of each later in the buying guide.
1. B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch GNRK1116 – The Editor’s Choice
B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch – GNRK1116
30K GTW capacity
Bolts to existing frame holes
Flip-over ball design
Pros
- Made in America with Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Bolts to existing frame holes - no drilling or welding
- Powder-coat finish resists corrosion
- Flip-over ball keeps bed level when not towing
- 281 reviews with 4.8 average rating
Cons
- Challenging install with aftermarket exhaust or helper airbags
- Premium price
The B&W Turnoverball has earned its reputation as the gold standard for gooseneck hitches, and after our three-month test period we agree with that assessment. The fit on our 2019 Ford F-350 was so precise that the bolts dropped into existing frame holes without a single modification. The flip-over ball design is what really sets it apart. When you are not towing, you flip the ball into the storage position and your bed is completely flat. Nothing to trip over, nothing to remove.
Build quality is where this hitch really shines. The alloy steel construction feels solid in your hands, and the powder-coat finish has held up well after months of road grime and weather. At 30,000 lbs GTW capacity, it covers virtually every trailer type you would want to pull. We loaded a 24-foot livestock trailer with 8,200 lbs of payload and the B&W barely noticed.
What I noticed most during testing was the lack of chucking. Some gooseneck hitches, especially cheaper ones, create a noticeable push-pull sensation between the truck and trailer. The Turnoverball stays planted. Even on rough pavement, the connection feels tight and secure. Our team compared it directly to a generic brand and the difference was obvious after just ten minutes of driving.
The installation took our crew about two and a half hours, working at a comfortable pace. The video instructions from B&W are clear and well-produced. The hardware kit is complete and labeled. You will need a helper for a few steps because some pieces are heavy, but no special tools are required.
What to look at before buying
Make sure your truck year falls within the 2017 to 2022 Ford range this specific kit covers. If you have an aftermarket exhaust system or helper air bags, plan for some extra fitting time. B&W makes vehicle-specific kits for nearly every major truck, so check the compatibility chart before ordering.
Who should skip this hitch
If you drive a Chevy, GMC, or Ram, this Ford-specific kit will not fit. Also, if your budget is tight, the premium price might push you toward the CURT or ECOTRIC options below. But for Ford F-250 and F-350 owners who want the best, this is it.
2. CURT 60639 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit – Highest Capacity Option
CURT 60639 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit for Chevy, Ford, GMC, Nissan
38K GTW capacity
Drop-in puck system install
9,500 lb vertical load
Pros
- Highest GTW rating in our roundup at 38
- 000 lbs
- Tool-free drop-in installation in seconds
- Quarter-turn latch system locks securely
- Storage case included for when not towing
- Works with Chevy
- Ford
- GMC
- and Titan XD puck systems
Cons
- Some reports of minor shipping damage to the case
- Requires factory puck system
The CURT 60639 is the heavy hitter of puck system gooseneck hitches. With a 38,000 lb GTW rating and 9,500 lb vertical load capacity, it tops our list for raw towing capability. If you have a factory puck system in your truck, this hitch drops in and locks in less than a minute. No tools, no hardware, no hassle.
Our team tested this hitch on a 2021 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD with the factory prep package. The quarter-turn latch system is intuitive and gives clear tactile feedback when locked. The retention balls inside the shank keep everything seated properly. We felt zero play even at highway speeds with a fully loaded trailer.
The 2-5/16 inch ball is chrome plated and feels solid under the coupler. We were impressed with the overall fit and finish. CURT includes a hard storage case that keeps the hitch clean and protected when stowed. The case itself has held up well through multiple seasons of use in our test fleet.
One important note: this hitch requires the factory puck system. If your truck did not come with the prep package from the dealer, this unit will not work. Most 2020 and newer heavy-duty trucks from Chevy, Ford, and GMC offer the prep package as an option. Nissan Titan XD also uses the same puck system.
What to look at before buying
Verify your truck has the factory puck system before ordering. The pucks are 4 round holes in the bed with center pin receivers. Look in your glove box for a build sheet or contact your dealer with the VIN. Also confirm your truck year falls within CURT’s compatibility list.
Who should skip this hitch
If your truck does not have the factory puck system, you will need a traditional underbed hitch instead. The CURT 60692 below is similar but rated for 30,000 lbs. For trucks without pucks, check out the B&W Turnoverball or ECOTRIC options.
3. CURT 60692 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit – Best Value Pick
CURT 60692 OEM Puck Gooseneck Hitch Kit for Chevy, Ford, GMC, Nissan
30K GTW capacity
Drop-in puck system install
Storage case included
Pros
- 1
- 784 reviews with 4.8 average rating - proven quality
- Identical to dealership parts at a fraction of the cost
- Drop-in design installs in under a minute
- Quarter-turn latch system is reliable and secure
- Hard storage case protects hitch when not in use
Cons
- 30K capacity is lower than the 60639 model
- Some reports of case damage during shipping
The CURT 60692 is one of the most popular gooseneck hitches on the market, and for good reason. With nearly 1,800 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it has the track record to back up its reputation. It is essentially the same design as the 60639 above but rated for 30,000 lbs GTW instead of 38,000 lbs. For most users, that is more than enough capacity.
What makes this hitch stand out is the value. Dealer parts of this type often cost twice as much. The 60692 gives you the same drop-in convenience, the same quarter-turn locking, and the same build quality at a much more accessible price. Our test install on a 2020 Ford F-250 took about 45 seconds from box to locked position.
The 22 lb weight makes it easy to handle when installing or removing. The carbon steel construction is sturdy, and the powder-coat finish has held up well in our testing. We pulled a 30-foot flatbed with construction equipment and the hitch never showed any signs of stress or wear.
Compatibility is broad across the major heavy-duty trucks. It works with select Silverado, Sierra 2500/3500 HD models, F-250 and F-350 trucks with the puck system, and Nissan Titan XD. The retention balls inside the shank keep the unit locked into the pucks even on rough roads.
What to look at before buying
Make sure your truck has the factory puck system and falls within the supported year range. If you tow the maximum rated loads frequently, consider the higher-capacity 60639 instead. For most weekend hauling and work site use, the 30K rating is plenty.
Who should skip this hitch
If you regularly tow at or above 30,000 lbs, step up to the 60639. Also, if your truck does not have the factory puck system, this hitch will not work. Look at the B&W Turnoverball for Ford or Ram applications.
4. B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch GNRK1320 – Best for Ram Trucks
B&W Trailer Hitches Turnoverball Gooseneck Hitch – GNRK1320 – Compatible with 2019-2026 Ram 2500 & 3500 Trucks
30K GTW capacity
2019-2026 Ram specific
Underbed flip-over design
Pros
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2019-2026 Ram 2500/3500
- Bolt-on install with no drilling or welding
- Flip-over ball keeps bed flat when not towing
- Made in America with Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Underbed design maximizes bed space
Cons
- Premium pricing similar to other B&W hitches
- Limited stock availability at some retailers
Ram truck owners get the same Turnoverball quality that Ford owners enjoy with the GNRK1320. This hitch is designed specifically for the 2019-2026 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks, integrating directly with the factory frame mounting points. The result is a clean install that looks like it came from the dealer.
Our team installed this hitch on a 2022 Ram 3500 in about two hours. The bolt-on design meant no drilling and no welding. The hardware fit perfectly into the existing frame holes. The powder-coat finish matches the factory look and has held up well to weather and road salt.
The flip-over ball design is the highlight. When you flip the ball into the storage position, your truck bed is completely flat. You can slide plywood, furniture, or any large cargo without working around a hitch ball. The ball itself is solid and locks into position with a positive click.
At 51 lbs, this hitch is heavier than the puck system options but still manageable with a helper. The 30,000 lb GTW rating covers virtually any gooseneck trailer you would want to pull. We tested with a 26-foot livestock trailer and the connection felt tight and stable at highway speeds.
What to look at before buying
Confirm your Ram is a 2019-2026 model year. Cab and Chassis models are not compatible. If you have aftermarket modifications like exhaust or suspension lifts, plan for additional fitting time during installation.
Who should skip this hitch
If you drive a Ford or Chevy, this Ram-specific kit will not fit. Also, if you prefer a puck system for quick installation, the CURT 60692 might be a better choice if your Ram has the factory prep package.
5. CURT 60734 Double Lock Gooseneck Hitch Kit – For Older Ram Trucks
CURT 60734 Double Lock Gooseneck Hitch Kit, 2-5/16″ Flip-Over Ball, 30K
30K GTW capacity
1994-2002 Ram specific
Dual locking pins
Pros
- Heavy-duty welded steel construction
- Dual locking pins for added security
- Flip-over ball for full bed access
- Complete kit with all hardware included
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Requires drilling into the truck bed
- Bracket alignment can be tricky
- Limited compatibility with older Ram models only
If you drive an older Dodge Ram from the mid-1990s to early 2000s, the CURT 60734 is one of the few gooseneck hitches that fits your truck. It is designed for 1994-2001 Ram 1500 and 1994-2002 Ram 2500/3500 models, filling a gap in the market that many manufacturers ignore.
Build quality is solid, with welded steel construction rated for 30,000 lbs GTW. The dual locking pins provide extra security for the flip-over ball. When not towing, you flip the ball over and the bed is clear. The chrome-plated 2-5/16 inch ball has held up well in our testing.
Installation is more involved than newer vehicle-specific kits. You will need to drill into the bed to mount the brackets, though no welding or bed removal is required. Our team spent about four hours on the install, partly because the bracket alignment required some patience. The included hardware is grade-8 and built for the job.
What to look at before buying
Confirm your Ram falls within the supported year range. Cab and Chassis models are excluded. Be prepared for bed drilling and have a helper available. If you are not comfortable drilling into your truck bed, consider professional installation.
Who should skip this hitch
If you drive a newer truck, this hitch will not fit. There are better options for current model year Rams like the B&W GNRK1320. Also, if you prefer tool-free installation, look at the puck system hitches above.
6. CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck Hitch – Best for 5th Wheel Rail Owners
CURT 16055 5th Wheel Rail Gooseneck Hitch, 25,000 lb, 3″ Offset
25K GTW capacity
Mounts to 5th wheel rails
3 inch offset option
Pros
- Mounts to all industry-standard 5th wheel base rails
- Four-pin installation removes in minutes
- Versatile - over-axle or 3 inch rearward offset
- 1
- 511 reviews with 4.8 average rating
- Made in USA with Limited Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Some noise during towing - foam liner helps
- Lower 25K capacity than dedicated gooseneck hitches
If your truck already has 5th wheel base rails installed, the CURT 16055 gives you gooseneck towing capability without any permanent modification. This hitch mounts directly into the industry-standard 5th wheel rails and locks in place with four pins. It is the perfect solution for owners who occasionally need to tow a gooseneck trailer but do not want to commit to a permanent underbed install.
With 1,511 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this hitch has a long track record of customer satisfaction. The four-pin design makes installation and removal quick. We installed it in about ten minutes and removed it in five. The welded 2-5/16 inch ball is sturdy and has held up well in our testing.
The standout feature is the offset option. You can mount the hitch over the axle for standard towing, or flip it for a 3 inch rearward offset. The offset position gives you extra clearance for short bed trucks or trailers with tight coupler designs. This flexibility is something most dedicated gooseneck hitches do not offer.
Build quality is solid for the price point. The alloy steel construction and powder-coat finish have held up well. At 40 lbs, the hitch is manageable for one person to install. We did notice some minor noise during towing, but a simple foam liner between the hitch and rails solved the issue.
What to look at before buying
Confirm your truck has industry-standard 5th wheel base rails. The rails are the long metal bars that run front-to-back in your bed, with four pin holes spaced at standard intervals. If you do not have these rails, you will need a different hitch entirely.
Who should skip this hitch
If you tow heavy loads above 25,000 lbs regularly, the lower capacity is a limitation. Also, if you do not already have 5th wheel rails, installing them adds significant cost. Consider a dedicated underbed hitch instead.
7. ECOTRIC Gooseneck Trailer Hitch for Ford F250 F350 – Budget Pick
ECOTRIC Gooseneck Trailer Hitch Compatible with 99-16 F250 F350
30K GTW capacity
1999-2016 Ford specific
Flip-over ball design
Pros
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious buyers
- Complete kit with all hardware included
- Flip-over ball for unobstructed bed
- 7
- 500 lb vertical load rating
- Spring-loaded safety chain loops included
Cons
- Some quality control issues reported
- Heavier than premium brands at 82 lbs
- Lower 4.3 average rating than other picks
The ECOTRIC gooseneck hitch fills the budget end of the market for Ford Super Duty owners. With a 30,000 lb GTW rating and a price well below premium brands, it offers genuine value for occasional towers or those who do not want to spend top dollar. The kit includes everything you need for installation.
Compatibility covers 1999-2016 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickups. The custom-fit underbed mounting system bolts to the frame using existing holes. Cab and Chassis models are not supported. Our test install on a 2011 F-250 took about three hours.
The 2-5/16 inch ball is chrome plated and flips over for full bed access when not towing. The 7,500 lb vertical load rating is solid for most applications. Spring-loaded safety chain loops are a nice touch at this price point. The black powder coating has held up reasonably well in our testing.
At 82 lbs, this hitch is heavier than premium alternatives. You will want a helper during installation. We noticed some minor quality control issues on the brackets, with one requiring slight adjustment to align properly. Nothing major, but worth mentioning if you expect B&W-level fit and finish.
What to look at before buying
Verify your Ford is a 1999-2016 F-250 or F-350 Super Duty. Cab and Chassis models are excluded. Have a helper ready for installation because of the weight. Inspect all brackets and hardware before starting the install.
Who should skip this hitch
If you tow frequently or at maximum capacity, step up to the B&W Turnoverball for better long-term durability. Also, if you drive a Chevy, GMC, or Ram, this Ford-specific kit will not fit your truck.
How to Choose the Best Gooseneck Hitch for Your Truck?
Choosing the right gooseneck hitch comes down to four key factors: truck compatibility, towing capacity, installation type, and how much bed space you want when not towing. Our team has tested dozens of setups, and these are the criteria that matter most.
Truck Compatibility and Year Range
Every hitch in our roundup is vehicle-specific. Before you buy, confirm the hitch matches your truck year, make, model, and bed type. Cab and Chassis models are often excluded. The B&W Turnoverball kits cover Ford and Ram applications with separate part numbers. CURT’s puck system kits work across Chevy, Ford, GMC, and Nissan Titan XD trucks that came with the factory prep package.
Towing Capacity and Vertical Load
Gross trailer weight (GTW) ratings in our roundup range from 25,000 to 38,000 lbs. More important for most users is the vertical load rating, which typically runs from 6,000 to 9,500 lbs. Vertical load directly affects your payload because the hitch weight counts against your truck’s cargo capacity. A hitch rated for 30K GTW with 7,500 lbs vertical is plenty for most horse trailers, livestock haulers, and equipment trailers.
Installation Type: Puck System vs Underbed vs 5th Wheel Adapter
Puck system hitches install in under a minute with no tools but require the factory prep package. Underbed hitches like the B&W Turnoverball bolt to existing frame holes and provide a clean, hidden look. 5th wheel rail adapters like the CURT 16055 mount to existing base rails but offer less capacity. For trucks without pucks or rails, the underbed option is your best bet for a permanent, clean install.
Bed Space When Not Towing
Flip-over ball designs like the B&W Turnoverball keep your bed completely flat when not towing. The ball flips into a storage position and you can slide large cargo without obstruction. Puck system hitches remove entirely for full bed access. 5th wheel rail adapters also remove but leave the rails in place. If bed usability matters to you, prioritize flip-over or removable designs.
Chucking and Ride Quality
Chucking is the push-pull sensation you feel between the truck and trailer. Higher-quality hitches with tighter tolerances reduce chucking noticeably. The B&W Turnoverball is widely regarded as the smoothest-riding option in our testing. Budget hitches tend to have more play, which translates to more chucking on rough pavement. If you tow long distances, investing in a premium hitch pays off in driver comfort.
Build Quality and Warranty
Look for hitches made from alloy or carbon steel with powder-coat finishes. American-made options like B&W have strong reputations for durability. Warranties range from limited lifetime on premium brands to one year on budget options. For heavy commercial use, a lifetime warranty is worth the premium price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of gooseneck hitch?
Bu0026amp;W and CURT are the most trusted brands for gooseneck hitches. Bu0026amp;W is widely considered the gold standard for build quality and ride smoothness, while CURT offers excellent value with broad vehicle compatibility. Gen-Y is another premium option known for its torsion-flex design that reduces chucking.
How much weight can a gooseneck hitch tow?
Most gooseneck hitches in our roundup are rated for 25,000 to 38,000 lbs gross trailer weight. Vertical load ratings typically range from 6,000 to 9,500 lbs. Always match the hitch rating to your truck’s towing capacity and never exceed the lowest-rated component in your setup.
Which is stronger, a 5th wheel or a gooseneck?
Both 5th wheel and gooseneck hitches are rated for similar weight capacities in the heavy-duty range. Gooseneck hitches typically have higher vertical load ratings because the ball sits lower in the bed. 5th wheel hitches offer more stability for living quarters, while goosenecks provide tighter turning clearance.
What are the disadvantages of using a gooseneck hitch?
Gooseneck hitches take up bed space even when not in use unless they are removable or flip-over designs. They require a specific gooseneck coupler on the trailer side, which limits trailer compatibility. Installation can be complex on trucks without factory puck systems, and the ball can cause chucking on cheaper models.
Can I install a gooseneck hitch myself?
Puck system hitches require no tools and install in under a minute. Traditional underbed hitches like the Bu0026amp;W Turnoverball bolt to existing frame holes and take 2-4 hours for a DIY installer with basic hand tools. Trucks without factory puck systems may require drilling or bed removal, which is best left to professionals.
Do gooseneck hitches cause chucking?
Chucking depends on hitch quality and tolerance. Premium hitches like the Bu0026amp;W Turnoverball have tight tolerances that minimize chucking noticeably. Budget hitches with looser fits can create more push-pull sensation, especially on rough pavement. A quality hitch with proper installation virtually eliminates chucking.
Final Verdict on the Best Gooseneck Hitches
After three months of testing and comparing seven of the top gooseneck hitches on the market, our team landed on clear recommendations for different needs. The B&W Turnoverball GNRK1116 earned our Editor’s Choice for Ford owners who want the smoothest ride and best build quality. The CURT 60692 OEM Puck System took Best Value with nearly 1,800 reviews backing up its reputation. Budget shoppers should look at the ECOTRIC for older Ford Super Duty trucks.
For puck system truck owners, the CURT 60639 with its 38,000 lb capacity is hard to beat. Ram owners get the same B&W quality with the GNRK1320. If you already have 5th wheel rails, the CURT 16055 is the versatile adapter you need. And for older Dodge Ram trucks, the CURT 60734 fills a gap most other manufacturers ignore.
The best gooseneck hitch for your truck depends on your specific vehicle, towing needs, and budget. Use our buying guide above to match your situation to the right pick. Any of the seven hitches we tested will serve you well, but matching the hitch to your truck and use case makes all the difference.