Abstract: A dump trailer coupling apparatus is described. The apparatus is joins a vehicle hitch to the push tongue of a trailer in a way that accounts for and permits all movements of the dump trailer when on a roadway and during the dump process, without translating that stress to the hitch. In one embodiment, the apparatus is a swivel coupler including a pair of swivel structures. The first swivel structure enables lateral movement of the trailer with respect to the vehicle. The second swivel structure enables complete dumping of the trailer without stress on the hitch. In another embodiment, the apparatus is a hinged coupler including a support plate, a ball mount and a ball coupler. The ball coupler retains a roller that moves along on the support plate and addresses lateral movement of the dump trailer. The ball coupler includes a hinge connector attached to the trailer push tongue and enables complete dumping of the trailer without stress on the hitch.