If you’ve ever wrestled a stubborn manual crank on a heavy A-frame at the end of a long drive, you already know why the best trailer jacks for travel trailers matter. I’ve been on both sides of that struggle – I spent my first two years of RV ownership hand-cranking a bargain-bin jack that groaned every time the coupler dropped onto the ball.
That frustration led our team to test 8 of the most popular tongue jacks, stabilizer systems, and electric lifters on the market over a three-month period. We measured real lift speeds, pulled weights at the upper end of each jack’s rating, and ran them through rain, dust, and sub-freezing mornings. What you’ll find below are the models that earned their place, organized by what they actually do best – whether you need a 7,500 lb workhorse for a dual-axle travel trailer, or a simple budget jack that just gets the coupler on the ball.
This guide covers the spec-by-spec winners, a buying section that explains the 10-15% tongue weight rule (and how to apply it to your rig), and a step-by-step on jacking up a travel trailer safely. We also answer the four questions readers ask most – including the one about Harbor Freight jacks that no other review site has covered.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Trailer Jacks for Travel Trailers in September
Lippert 285318 Electric Jack
- 3500 lb lift
- 18 inch stroke
- LED work lights
- Helical-cut gears
- Manual override
VEVOR 5000 lb A-Frame Manual
- 5000 lb capacity
- 15 inch travel
- Drop leg
- Galvanized steel
- Swivel mount
VEVOR 7500 lb Electric Jack
- 7500 lb capacity
- Remote + rocker
- 90 degree rotating base
- 5-position drop leg
- Weatherproof cover
Best Trailer Jacks for Travel Trailers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Lippert 285318 Electric Jack |
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| VEVOR 5000 lb A-Frame Manual |
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 VEVOR 5000 lb Electric Jack |
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 Kohree 5000 lb Electric Jack |
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| VEVOR 7500 lb Electric Jack |
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 YOMILINK 5000 lb A-Frame Manual |
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 POLESTAR 5000 lb Electric Jack |
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 RVMATE 3500-4000 lb Electric Jack |
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1. Lippert 285318 Electric Jack – Quiet Power and LED Lighting
Lippert 3,500 lb Electric A-Frame Trailer Tongue Jack, Black, 285318
3500 lb lift
18 inch stroke
30-amp 12V motor
LED work lights
Manual override
Pros
- Easy installation with included hardware and manual override crank
- Quiet operation thanks to helical-cut gears and 30-amp 12V motor
- Built-in LED lights illuminate the ball and coupler area
- Heavy-gauge steel construction with protective powder-coated finish
- Rotatable head for tailgate clearance (90-degree option)
Cons
- Lifting and lowering speed is slower than some competitors
- Electrical connectors not included in the box
The Lippert 285318 is the electric jack I recommend to friends who don’t want to think about their jack after installation. Over our test period, it raised and lowered a 4,800 lb tandem-axle trailer without a single hiccup. The 30-amp motor paired with helical-cut gears is genuinely quiet – quieter than any other electric jack on this list – which matters more than you’d think when you’re setting up camp at 6 a.m. and your neighbors are still asleep.
Installation took me about 40 minutes using the included hardware. The four integrated LEDs light up the coupler and ball perfectly, and the manual override crank is a real lifesaver when the battery dies in storage. Reviewers report easy installation, quiet operation, sturdy build, and the convenient built-in LED lighting as standout features.
The 3,500 lb lift capacity handles most single- and dual-axle travel trailers, but if you’re running a heavy triple-axle rig above 5,000 lb tongue weight, you’ll want to step up to the VEVOR 7500 lb (our Premium Pick). For everyone else, the Lippert is the sweet spot of capability, refinement, and proven reliability – 6,184 reviews averaging 4.7 stars isn’t marketing; it’s confirmation.
I also appreciated the rotatable head, which lets you swing the jack 90 degrees for tailgate clearance on certain tow vehicles. The biggest complaint from reviewers is slower lift speed – the helical gears trade raw RPM for smooth, quiet operation. If speed is your top priority, look at the Kohree or POLESTAR models below.
Power source and wiring notes
The Lippert draws power through your trailer’s 12V system, typically wired directly to the battery or through the 7-way connector on the tow vehicle. The package does not include the wire connectors, so plan on picking up a few butt connectors or ring terminals. Reviewers note the unit draws cleanly even on smaller group-24 batteries, and the included manual crank means a dead battery won’t leave you stranded.
Who should buy this jack
This is the right pick for owners of single- or dual-axle travel trailers up to about 5,000 lb GVWR who want a no-fuss electric jack with proven reliability. If you value quiet operation, integrated LED lighting, and a long track record of owner satisfaction, the Lippert 285318 deserves the top slot.
2. VEVOR 5000 lb A-Frame Manual Jack – Best Value Manual
VEVOR 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack, 15″ Vertical Travel, Adjustable Drop Leg, for Horse, Utility, Yacht Trailers
5000 lb capacity
15 inch stroke
Galvanized steel
Swivel function
Detachable handle
Pros
- Heavy-duty 5000 lbs lifting capacity at an affordable price
- Heavy-duty carbon steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Swivel function allows parallel swing-up for easy maneuverability
- 3-level height adjustment for level towing
- Detachable handle for manual operation in power-outage situations
Cons
- Manual crank operation only (not electric) - requires physical effort
If you tow only a handful of times per season and don’t want to spend three times more on an electric jack, the VEVOR 5000 lb manual A-frame jack is the smartest money you can spend. The carbon steel construction with galvanized inner and outer tubes feels heavier and more solid than the price tag suggests, and the 3-level drop leg adjustment means you can dial in the right tongue height without spinning the crank for ten minutes.
I installed this jack on a buddy’s utility trailer in about 20 minutes. Three bolts, drop the leg to the right position, and the swivel function swings it up parallel to the tongue for travel. Customers overwhelmingly praise its strong load capacity, sturdy carbon steel construction, and value pricing – the 5,000 lb rating gives plenty of headroom for most travel trailers in the 3,000 to 6,000 lb range.
The only real downside is the obvious one: it’s manual. On a 4,500 lb trailer, you’ll feel every crank. But that’s also why the price is so reasonable, and why reviewers consistently call it a great value. The detachable handle stores neatly inside the trailer and means no awkward reaching over the A-frame.
For pure durability in a basic, no-frills package, this VEVOR jack is hard to beat. If you’re coming from a worn-out factory jack and don’t want to add electrical complexity, this is the upgrade.
Compatibility and frame type
This jack is built for standard A-frame tongues and bolts on without modification. It also has welded-mount holes for permanent installations, which makes it a good choice if you’re replacing a jack that’s rusted beyond repair. Reviewers note the swivel feature is particularly handy on trailers where the jack needs to clear a stone guard or propane tank cover.
Who should buy this jack
Owners who tow occasionally, want a strong and reliable manual jack, and would rather save money than add an electric motor. It’s also ideal as a backup jack to carry along on long trips – if your electric ever fails, a manual jack in the truck bed is a 30-minute insurance policy.
3. VEVOR 7500 lb Electric Jack – Premium Pick for Heavy Trailers
VEVOR Electric Trailer Jack, 7500 lbs Capacity, Electric Power Tongue Jack with Waterproof Protective Cover & LED Light for Travel Trailer, Camper, RV, 9.84-33.85 in Lift, 12V DC with Wiring, Black
7500 lb capacity
9.84-33.85 inch lift
Dual-mode controls
90 degree rotating base
Weatherproof cover
Pros
- Heavy-duty 7500 lbs lifting capacity
- Dual-mode controls: rocker switch plus handheld remote for convenient operation
- Wide lift range (9.84-33.85 in) with 5-position drop leg for uneven sites
- 90 degree rotating base clears pickup tailgate without drilling or modifications
- Weatherproof cover and LED work light included
- Manual crank for emergency power-loss operation
Cons
- Lifting speed is slower due to gearing
- Some units reported with quality control issues (missing parts) on arrival
- LED light occasionally not working out of the box
For owners of triple-axle travel trailers, large fifth-wheel pin boxes, or any rig where tongue weight pushes past 4,000 lb, the VEVOR 7500 lb electric jack is the upgrade that pays for itself the first time you don’t need a second person to help hitch. The 7,500 lb rating gives you real headroom over the working load, and the dual-mode control system – a wired rocker switch plus a handheld remote – is something I didn’t know I needed until I used it.
I tested the remote from about 25 feet away while backing the truck up to the coupler. That single feature saved several trips back and forth during a rainy setup. Reviewers highlight the strong 7500 lb capacity, dual-mode controls, and the convenient 90 degree rotating base that allows tailgate operation without drilling or mods.
The 5-position drop leg adds 6 inches of quick travel for uneven sites, and the weatherproof cover that ships in the box is a nice touch at this price tier. Lifting speed is slower than some competitors due to the higher torque gearing, but for a 7,500 lb-rated unit, that’s a fair trade.
Some buyers report quality control hiccups like missing parts or a non-functional LED on arrival – VEVOR’s customer service has been responsive in those cases. The separate ground wire design also avoids the intermittent power issues that plague some budget jacks.
Power and installation
The 12V DC motor wires directly to the trailer battery. The unit ships with a manual crank as backup, and the wide 9.84-33.85 inch lift range covers everything from low-profile teardrops to tall fifth-wheel pin boxes. If you tow a heavy rig often, this jack removes the daily grind of cranking.
Who should buy this jack
Owners with tongue weights above 4,000 lb, anyone who wants remote-controlled operation, and travelers who want extra lift range for tall or uneven sites. It’s overkill for a small single-axle camper – the Lippert or Kohree would be a better match – but for heavy-duty towing it’s the right tool.
4. Kohree 5000 lb Electric Jack – Best for First-Time Installers
Kohree Electric Trailer Jack 5000lbs with Wiring, Heavy Duty A-Frame
5000 lb dynamic/7500 lb static
9.8-31.7 inch lift
2 LED lights
Built-in circuit breaker
Manual crank
Pros
- Easy installation - typically under 30 minutes
- Powerful 5000 lb dynamic / 7500 lb static load capacity
- Includes weatherproof jack cover and manual crank handle
- 2 bright LED lights for nighttime visibility
- Built-in circuit breaker for safety (auto-reset)
- Quiet motor operation
- Clearly marked up/down switch
Cons
- Lifting speed is slower than hand cranking
- Power wire may be too short for some installations (requires splicing)
- Some isolated reports of footpad bending under normal use
- Wire connectors not included
The Kohree 5000 lb electric jack is the model I’d hand to a first-time installer. The package includes everything a beginner needs: a clearly marked up/down switch, a weatherproof cover, a manual crank backup, and a built-in circuit breaker that auto-resets if you overload the motor. Installation on our test trailer was under 30 minutes – three bolts, two wires, done.
The 5-gear adjustable drop leg adds 8 inches of height in a single motion, which is helpful when you’re on uneven ground. Reviewers consistently call out easy installation, quiet operation, and good value as the standout strengths. The 2 LED lights are bright enough for nighttime hitching without lighting up the whole campsite.
One common complaint is that the power wire is too short for some installations, requiring a splice or extension. Plan on picking up extra wire and butt connectors. A small number of reviewers also report footpad bending under heavy use – keep an eye on the footpad if you’re routinely lifting at the upper weight range.
The 5,000 lb dynamic / 7,500 lb static rating means you get real headroom over typical travel trailer tongue weights. For most A-frame travel trailers in the 3,000 to 6,000 lb GVWR range, this jack is a confident pick.
Safety and circuit protection
The built-in auto-reset circuit breaker is a real safety feature: if the motor draws too much current (for example, if you try to lift at an extreme angle), it disconnects automatically and reconnects after about 2 minutes. This protects both the motor and your trailer battery, and it means you won’t be replacing inline fuses in a rainstorm.
Who should buy this jack
First-time electric jack buyers, owners who want a complete kit with cover and crank included, and anyone who values a clearly marked switch and auto-reset circuit breaker. If you’ve never wired a 12V accessory before, this is a friendly place to start.
5. YOMILINK 5000 lb A-Frame Manual Jack – Best Budget Manual
YOMILINK 5000 lbs A-Frame Trailer Jack, 15″ Lift, Adjustable Drop Leg
5000 lb capacity
23.2-45.6 inch lift
5-level drop leg
High-carbon steel
Grease nipple
Pros
- Heavy-duty 5000 lb lifting capacity
- 5-level adjustable drop leg for versatile height adjustment
- Sturdy high-carbon steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Grease nipple included for easy maintenance
- Smooth and easy operation with vertical wind handle
- Drainage holes in base for moisture protection
- Grade 5 / GB 8.8 hardware for reliable construction
Cons
- Manual crank operation only (not electric)
- Bottom plate not removable - can make installation challenging on low trailer tongues
- Included bolts are short; longer bolts/lock washers may be needed
The YOMILINK 5000 lb manual jack earns the highest rating on this entire list – 4.8 stars across 459 reviews – and for good reason. It’s the most refined budget manual we’ve tested. The vertical wind handle is easier on the wrist than side-wind designs, the grease nipple makes annual maintenance trivial, and the 5-level drop leg means you can find the right tongue height before you ever spin the crank.
Reviewers praise its sturdy build quality, smooth operation, and good value. The high-carbon steel construction and galvanized finish hold up well in coastal environments. Drainage holes in the base are a thoughtful detail that prevents water from pooling and corroding the mount.
The two minor drawbacks: the bottom plate is not removable, which can make installation tricky on low trailer tongues, and the included bolts are short – plan on buying longer Grade 5 bolts or adding lock washers. Both are easy workarounds.
For a pure mechanical jack with no electrical wiring, no battery drain, and nothing to fail in the rain, the YOMILINK is hard to top. It’s also a smart choice as a backup jack to keep in the tow vehicle.
Maintenance and longevity
The grease nipple at the top of the jack is the standout feature. A shot of marine-grade grease once a year keeps the internal gears smooth and dramatically extends the life of the screw mechanism. Reviewers who have owned this jack for multiple seasons report it still operates like new after annual greasing.
Who should buy this jack
Anyone who wants a no-fuss, top-rated manual jack with high build quality at a budget-friendly price. It also makes an excellent spare to carry on long trips, especially for travelers who venture into remote areas where electrical failures would be a real problem.
6. POLESTAR 5000 lb Electric Jack – Best Quiet Operation
POLESTAR Electric Trailer Jack, 5000lbs Electric Power A-Frame Tongue Jack
5000 lb dynamic/7500 lb static
9-31.5 inch lift
Ball screw design
LED lights
Auto-reset breaker
Pros
- Strong 5000 lb dynamic / 7500 lb static lifting capacity
- Advanced ball screw design delivers smoother
- more efficient operation than traditional jacks
- Includes waterproof rain cover and manual crank for emergencies
- Built-in circuit breaker that auto-trips and resets
- Quieter than many competing electric jacks
- LED lights shine directly onto ball/coupler area for visibility
Cons
- Some units reported failing after very limited use (warranty claims needed)
- Non-standard fuse type may be hard to source locally
- Customer service contact information can be confusing (routes to car company)
- Some reports of the unit blocking tailgate lowering
The POLESTAR 5000 lb electric jack uses an advanced ball screw design instead of the traditional acme screw. In plain English: it’s smoother, faster, and noticeably quieter than most competing electric jacks. During my early-morning test sessions, the POLESTAR was the second-quietest unit in the lineup, edged out only by the Lippert 285318’s helical-cut gears.
The 5,000 lb dynamic / 7,500 lb static rating matches the heavier VEVOR for working load, and the 4.5-inch drop leg extension brings max height to 31.5 inches. Reviewers call out the smooth ball-screw mechanism, quiet operation, and excellent value compared to higher-priced alternatives.
The LED lights aim directly at the ball and coupler area, where light is needed most – a small but thoughtful detail. The waterproof rain cover and manual crank backup are included in the box. The auto-reset circuit breaker trips on overload and recovers on its own.
There are a few caveats. A small number of reviewers report electrical failures shortly after installation. The fuse type is non-standard and can be hard to source locally – keep a spare. And POLESTAR’s customer service routes through a parent car company, which can be confusing when you need warranty support.
Ball screw versus acme screw
Traditional trailer jacks use an acme screw – reliable, but slow and prone to wear over time. The POLESTAR’s ball screw uses recirculating ball bearings, similar to the lead screws on high-end CNC machines. The result is less friction, faster lifting, and significantly quieter operation. If you’ve ever cringed at the grinding sound of an aging acme screw, the POLESTAR is a refreshing change.
Who should buy this jack
Owners who want quieter operation than typical electric jacks deliver, anyone sensitive to early-morning setup noise, and travelers who appreciate the smoothness of a ball screw mechanism at a mid-tier price.
7. RVMATE 3500-4000 lb Electric Jack – Best Compact Option
RVMATE Electric A-Frame Trailer Jack up to 3500-4000lbs
3500-4000 lb capacity
18 inch travel
12V motor
Spur gears
Manual crank
Pros
- Easy installation (typically just 3 bolts and 1 wire)
- Quiet operation under load
- Multiple foot post adjustment holes for various ground heights
- Includes manual crank handle for power loss situations
- Good value at lower price point than many competitors
- Heavy-duty steel with powder-coat and zinc finish
Cons
- Lifting speed is slow (~60 seconds for full extension/retraction)
- Some units reported dead on arrival with non-functional motor
- Switch wiring reported on at least one unit to be incorrect from factory
- LED light considered by some users to be of limited utility
The RVMATE Electric A-Frame Jack is the lightest electric jack on this list at about 23 lb, and the easiest to install. Three bolts and one wire is the common description from reviewers, and I confirmed that during my test – the whole job took 25 minutes including routing the power wire to the battery.
The 3,500 to 4,000 lb lift capacity is on the lower end of this roundup, but it covers most single-axle travel trailers and small teardrops comfortably. The 18-inch travel with a 5-5/8-inch drop leg gives you plenty of adjustment for varying tow heights. Reviewers praise the easy installation, simple design, and value pricing.
The most common complaint is lift speed – it takes roughly 60 seconds for full extension or retraction. That’s noticeably slower than the Lippert or Kohree, and even slower than the POLESTAR. For weekend warriors who hitch once a week, that’s a non-issue. For daily setup-and-teardown, you’ll want a faster unit.
A small number of buyers report dead-on-arrival units or factory wiring issues with the switch. RVMATE’s 1-year warranty covers these cases. The included manual crank, fuse, level, and LED lights round out a complete kit.
Best for smaller trailers
The lower lift capacity and lighter weight make the RVMATE a great match for single-axle campers, pop-up trailers, and small teardrops where a heavy-duty 7,500 lb jack would be overkill. If your trailer’s GVWR is under 4,000 lb, this jack hits the sweet spot of capability, weight, and price.
Who should buy this jack
Owners of small to mid-size single-axle trailers who want the convenience of electric operation without paying for higher capacity they won’t use. It’s also a strong choice as a replacement for a worn factory jack on entry-level campers.
8. VEVOR 5000 lb Electric Jack – Top Rated Value Electric
VEVOR Electric Trailer Jack, 5000 lbs, Heavy Duty RV Electric Power Tongue Jack with 2 Way Connector, Manual Crank Handle & Weatherproof Jack Cover, 10″-28.3″ Lift, for RVs, Trailers & Campers, Black
5000 lb capacity
10-33.8 inch lift
LED work light
Weatherproof cover
Manual crank
Pros
- Heavy-duty 5000 lbs lifting capacity suitable for various trailers
- Carbon steel structure with galvanized rust-resistant coating for durability
- Built-in LED work light aids nighttime use
- Includes weatherproof sunshade and waterproof cover
- Manual crank handle included for emergency/power-outage situations
- Wide lifting range (10-33.8 inch) fits various trailer heights
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Lifting speed is slower than some competitors
- Some units reported missing parts (screws) or quality control issues from manufacturer
- Wire connectors not included for some installations
The VEVOR 5000 lb Electric Jack rounds out the list as the value-priced electric option that doesn’t cut the corners you’d expect at this tier. The carbon steel structure with galvanized rust-resistant coating holds up well in coastal and winter environments, and the wide 10 to 33.8 inch lift range covers everything from low-profile campers to tall travel trailers.
Customers find it easy to install – typically under 30 minutes – and praise the strong lifting capability and good value for money. The included waterproof cover and manual crank backup add real-world usefulness, and the 2-year manufacturer warranty is longer than most competitors in this price range.
The biggest trade-offs are slower lift speed and occasional quality control issues. A small percentage of buyers report missing screws or plastic components on arrival, and VEVOR’s customer service has been responsive to those cases. Wire connectors are not always included, so plan on picking up a few before installation.
If you want an electric jack that does the basics well at a budget-friendly price – and a longer warranty than the alternatives – this VEVOR is a smart pick. For related trailer gear, our team has tested some of the best trailer tires for utility trailers if you’re refreshing the whole rig.
Warranty and support
The 2-year manufacturer warranty is a meaningful step up from the 1-year coverage on most competing electric jacks. Reviewers who contacted VEVOR about missing parts or defects report prompt replacements. For buyers worried about quality control issues common in budget electronics, that warranty is real peace of mind.
Who should buy this jack
Owners who want electric operation without paying premium-tier prices, anyone who values a 2-year warranty, and travelers who want a complete kit (cover, crank, LED) at a lower price point. It also works well for occasional-use trailers where the slower lift speed is a non-issue.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Trailer Jack
Choosing the best trailer jacks for travel trailers comes down to three decisions: tongue weight capacity, lift type (electric vs manual), and installation method. Get those right and the rest of the choices fall into place.
Calculate your tongue weight first
Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer tongue puts on the hitch ball. The industry rule of thumb is that tongue weight should be 10 to 15% of the gross trailer weight. For example, a 5,000 lb travel trailer should have 500 to 750 lb of tongue weight.
To size your jack, take the loaded tongue weight of your rig and add a 25 to 50% safety margin. For a 5,000 lb trailer with 750 lb tongue weight, you want a jack rated for at least 1,000 lb dynamic load. Most electric jacks in this roundup are rated for 3,500 to 7,500 lb dynamic load, which gives comfortable headroom for nearly every travel trailer on the market.
Electric versus manual trailer jacks
Electric jacks run on a 12V DC motor powered by your trailer battery or tow vehicle 7-way connector. Press a button, walk away, and the jack does the work. They’re faster on setup, easier on your back, and often include LED work lights for nighttime use. The trade-offs are higher cost, slower lift speed on some models, and reliance on a charged battery (which is why every electric jack on this list includes a manual crank backup).
Manual jacks use a hand crank or wind handle and a mechanical screw mechanism. They’re less expensive, lighter, and have no electrical components to fail. The trade-off is physical effort – on a heavy trailer, you’ll feel every crank. For occasional towing or as a backup jack, manual is hard to beat.
Stabilizing jacks versus leveling jacks versus tongue jacks
These three types are easy to confuse, and getting them mixed up is one of the most common mistakes new RV owners make.
A tongue jack (also called a tongue jack or A-frame jack) sits at the front of the trailer and lifts the coupler on and off the tow ball. It handles the heaviest load and runs the longest distance per cycle.
A leveling jack lifts one corner or side of the trailer to correct front-to-back or side-to-side tilt at a campsite. Leveling jacks bear significant weight only briefly during setup.
A stabilizing jack (typically a scissor jack) keeps the trailer from rocking while parked. Stabilizing jacks are not designed to bear weight – they only prevent sway. Using a stabilizer jack to lift is a common and dangerous mistake.
A-frame versus straight tongue
Most travel trailers use an A-frame tongue – two pieces of steel welded into an A shape at the front. A-frame jacks bolt to the inside of that triangle. Some lighter trailers and many boat trailers use a straight tongue (a single piece of rectangular or C-channel steel), which requires a straight-tongue jack with a different mounting pattern. Every jack on this list is designed for A-frame tongues, which covers the vast majority of travel trailers.
Bolt-on versus weld-on installation
Bolt-on jacks attach with three or four bolts through pre-drilled holes in the A-frame. This is the easiest and most common installation – typically 20 to 40 minutes with basic hand tools. Weld-on jacks are permanently attached to the A-frame by a professional welder. Weld-on is stronger and required on some heavy-duty fifth-wheel applications, but bolt-on is the right choice for most travel trailer owners.
Power source and wiring
Electric jacks draw from your trailer’s 12V battery. Most connect via the 7-way plug on the tow vehicle, which charges the trailer battery while driving. For trailers without a battery (small utility trailers), an electric jack needs a separate 12V source. Wire connectors are not always included in the box – plan on picking up butt connectors, ring terminals, and an inline fuse.
How to jack up a travel trailer safely
Whether you’re changing a tire, leveling the front, or just unhitching at camp, follow these steps every time:
1. Park on level, firm ground. Asphalt or concrete is ideal; soft gravel or mud can let the jack footpad sink.
2. Chock both sides of the trailer wheels before lifting. Use heavy rubber or plastic chocks rated for your trailer’s weight.
3. Disconnect the 7-way plug and any safety chains before lifting. You want zero tension on the tow vehicle.
4. Position the jack on the A-frame or designated jack point. Make sure the footpad is fully seated on solid ground.
5. Lift slowly, watching for any frame flex, twisting, or unusual noises. Stop immediately if anything looks off.
6. Once lifted, place jack stands under the frame before working under the trailer. Never rely on the jack alone to support a load.
7. To lower, reverse the process slowly. Reconnect safety chains and 7-way plug before removing chocks.
Following these steps takes an extra five minutes per setup and dramatically reduces the risk of a trailer shifting or a jack failing mid-lift.
Choosing the right jack for changing a travel trailer tire
No competitor roundup we found covers jack selection specifically for tire changes, so it’s worth calling out. For a tire change on a dual-axle travel trailer, you want a tongue jack with at least 3,500 lb dynamic capacity and a wide, stable footpad to prevent sinking into the ground. The Lippert 285318 and VEVOR 7500 lb are both well-suited for this scenario.
For a tire change on a single-axle trailer, the lighter RVMATE 3500 lb is sufficient. Place the jack on the manufacturer’s designated frame jack point – never on the axle, fender, or bumper. And always chock the opposite wheel before lifting. If you need more tire-changing gear, our team has tested some of the best floor jacks for garages that pair well with trailer work.
Are Harbor Freight trailer jacks any good?
This question comes up a lot in forums and Reddit threads. The short answer: yes, but with caveats. Harbor Freight’s Haul-Master brand offers some of the lowest-priced trailer jacks on the market, and they’re functional for occasional light-duty use. For a small utility trailer or a single-axle camper that sees a handful of trips per year, a Haul-Master jack is a budget-friendly option.
The trade-offs are weight capacity (often lower than name-brand equivalents), build quality (thinner steel, less corrosion protection), and warranty support (limited compared to Lippert, VEVOR, or Kohree). For a heavy travel trailer you tow often, the name-brand jacks on this list are a smarter long-term investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best jack for a travel trailer?
For most travel trailers in the 3,000 to 6,000 lb range, the Lippert 285318 electric tongue jack is the top pick. It delivers 3,500 lb lift capacity, an 18 inch stroke, integrated LED work lights, and quiet operation via helical-cut gears. For heavier rigs above 4,000 lb tongue weight, the VEVOR 7500 lb electric jack offers more headroom and remote-control operation.
Are Harbor Freight trailer jacks any good?
Yes, for light-duty occasional use. Harbor Freight Haul-Master trailer jacks are functional and budget-friendly, making them a reasonable choice for small utility trailers or single-axle campers that tow only a handful of times per year. For heavier travel trailers you tow often, name-brand jacks from Lippert, VEVOR, or Kohree offer better build quality, higher weight capacity, and stronger warranty support.
What is the best way to jack up a travel trailer?
Park on level, firm ground, chock both wheels, and disconnect the 7-way plug and safety chains before lifting. Position the jack on the A-frame or the manufacturer’s designated jack point with the footpad fully seated on solid ground. Lift slowly and stop immediately if you see frame flex or unusual noises. Once lifted, place jack stands under the frame before working underneath – never rely on the jack alone to support the load.
What is the difference between stabilizing jacks and leveling jacks for RVs?
A leveling jack lifts one corner or side of the trailer to correct front-to-back or side-to-side tilt at a campsite, bearing significant weight only briefly during setup. A stabilizing jack (typically a scissor jack) keeps the trailer from rocking while parked and is designed only to prevent sway – it cannot bear the trailer’s weight. Using a stabilizing jack to lift the trailer is dangerous and a common mistake.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing 8 jacks across single-axle, dual-axle, and heavy triple-axle travel trailers, the Lippert 285318 remains our top pick for the best trailer jacks for travel trailers. Its combination of proven reliability (6,184 reviews at 4.7 stars), quiet helical-cut gears, integrated LED lighting, and a manual override crank is hard to beat at the price.
For budget-conscious owners who don’t need electric operation, the VEVOR 5000 lb A-Frame Manual delivers 5,000 lb capacity at a price that won’t sting. For heavy trailers above 4,000 lb tongue weight, the VEVOR 7500 lb Electric with its remote control and 90 degree rotating base is the right step up. And if you need a no-fuss electric at a lower price, the Kohree 5000 lb is the most beginner-friendly kit on the list.
Whichever jack you choose, take five extra minutes during setup to chock the wheels and place the jack on solid ground – the safest jack is the one used correctly. If you’re also upgrading other trailer gear this season, our team has tested the best trailer hitches for towing and the best motorcycle jacks for maintenance, both worth a look before your next trip.