Ever dreamed of taking your favorite car on an epic road trip, or maybe you need to move a classic beauty across town? Hauling vehicles can feel like a huge puzzle. Which trailer will handle the weight? How do you secure it safely? Choosing the wrong car trailer can lead to stress, damage, and wasted money.
Finding the perfect car trailer involves more than just picking the biggest one you see. You need to think about capacity, ramps, and brake systems. It’s easy to get lost in technical terms and confusing features when all you want is a reliable way to move your ride. That’s where we step in to clear the dust.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about car trailers. We will explore the different types available, explain key safety features, and give you simple tips for making the best purchase for your needs. Get ready to tow with confidence!
Top Car Trailers Recommendations
- 𝟱-𝗜𝗡-𝟭 𝗠𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗜-𝗨𝗧𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗥 – Get in on the action and start hauling your cargo with the 5-in-1 DK2 utility trailer! This single axle multi-utility trailer is one of the most versatile trailers sitting on a solid square tube cambered axle with 30.5cm (12 in.) 6 ply bias tires. Built for heavy duty performance and maximum efficiency helping you get the job done no matter how big or small. Whether you’re towing your favorite toys or doing hard work
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- MESH SURFACE: Prevents smaller objects from falling through, 14.4" raised tubular side rails(3.2" only when folded) to make sure cargo do not jolt or slide randomly.
- SAFETY REFLECTORS: Driving at night, rainy days or other severe weather is very dangerous. Equipped with 2 red reflectors to help you safety at night.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Fits any 2" trailer hitch opening, 500 Lbs distributed weight capacity. Works well if you distribute the weight evenly on platform when hauling a load, keep it balance for the cargo load or fix in the middle position.
- EXTRA LARGE SIZE & CAPACITY: Perfect for hauling extra cargo bags, camping equipment, luggage and more.
- LARGE LOAD CAPACITY: 1500lb; 15 cu.ft of hauling capacity
- Convenient Universal Connection: Embrace the effortless compatibility of our tow behind dump cart. No need for special tools - just connect the cart to your existing tractors, lawnmowers, ATV, UTV, and more. Turn your yard hauling work into a breeze.
- Efficient Hauling Assistant: Unlike most dump trailers, this metal trailer can carry up to 1500 pounds of items. The thickness of the pipe wall is increased to 0.07", the trailer rod is thickened to 2" x 2", and the side rod is reinforced to 1" x 1". This improves the overall load-bearing capacity while effectively preventing deformation and pipe breakage.
- High Capacity Trailer: Our ATV dump cart has added railings on four sides and can hold 15 cubic feet of yard waste. Collect more wood, soil, or garbage at once, reducing the need for frequent trips. Handle your yard work in one fell swoop with our high-capacity trailer.
- Flexible Dumping: Say goodbye to the strain of manual handling. Our garden ATV trailer boasts a user-friendly dump feature, allowing you to clear debris swiftly with a simple hand-pull or foot-step and a quick opening of the rear gate. Make your yard work less work and more comfortable.
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- MESH SURFACE: Prevents smaller objects from falling through, 14.4" raised tubular side rails(3.2" only when folded) to make sure cargo do not jolt or slide randomly.
- SAFETY REFLECTORS: Driving at night, rainy days or other severe weather is very dangerous. Equipped with 2 red reflectors to help you safety at night.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Fits any 2" trailer hitch opening, 500 Lbs distributed weight capacity. Works well if you distribute the weight evenly on platform when hauling a load, keep it balance for the cargo load or fix in the middle position.
- EXTRA LARGE SIZE & CAPACITY: Perfect for hauling extra cargo bags, camping equipment, luggage and more.
- TALL-RAIL, ALL-WEATHER CARGO HITCH CARRIER : Engineered with a robust 500 lbs. capacity, this high-side rail cargo carrier hitch mount basket is built tough for oversized & heavy payloads. With a spacious 60"x24"x14" frame, the Mockins Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier offers ample room for luggage, equipment, camping gear or construction materials. Made from weatherproof, rust-resistant steel, our vehicle cargo carriers are designed to withstand the elements for long-term cargo trailer performance.
- SECURE HITCH BASKET ACCESSORIES: Travel smoothly on rough roads with the Mockins High Rail Cargo Racks for Trailer Hitch , which include a stabilizer & 2" raised arm for steady ground clearance. Our folding tow hitch cargo carrier comes with a 50"x36" cargo net (expandable to 100"x75") sporting hooks with finger holes for easy attachment. Complete with a license plate bracket & brake lights with adapter (patent-pending), this trailer hitch rack cargo carrier provides a safe ride every time.
- WATERPROOF CARGO BAG FOR HITCH CARRIER : With fully waterproof zippers, the 60"x24"x36" soft-shell folding hitch cargo carrier bag delivers 30 cu.ft. of weatherproof trailer hitch storage . The Mockins Car Rack Cargo Carrier Bag is crafted from abrasion-resistant vinyl to endure harsh weather. Reinforced seams, a protective flap, & 5.5" Velcro closures enhance moisture protection, making our bags for vehicle cargo baskets ideal for road trips. Also suitable for use as a truck bed cargo bag .
- FULL TRAILER HITCH LUGGAGE RACK FOR CAR SET: Get all you need for simplified packing: a 500 lbs. capacity high rail rear hitch cargo carrier for SUV & car, complete with a hitch lock & stabilizer. Also included is a waterproof car luggage carrier bag with combo lock & carry case. Secure gear with these hitch hauler accessories: 3 buckle straps, 2 ratchet straps, a 6mm thick cargo net, a license plate bracket & rear signal lights. Upgrade your hauling with the Mockins Car Hitch Cargo Carrier .
- CUSTOMER COMES FIRST: At Mockins, we always remain committed to quality & stand behind our luggage rack for hitch attachment. Your satisfaction is our top priority, which is why this hitch mounted cargo carrier set comes backed by a 10-year warranty. Have questions about the hitch cargo rack ? We're here to help. Whether you're heading to the mountains, the beach, or anywhere in between, the Mockins High Rail Trailer Hitch Storage Rack & Cargo Bag bundle keeps your gear secure on every trip.
- Universal Hitch Compatibility: Designed to fit all 2" x 2" Class III and IV hitch receivers, this cargo carrier offers versatile compatibility with a variety of vehicles.
- Optimal Dimensions: With outer dimensions of 50" x 29-1/2" x 8-3/4" and inner dimensions of 49" x 27-3/4" x 7-1/2", this cargo carrier provides ample space to transport your belongings securely.
- Impressive Weight Capacity: With a maximum distributed weight capacity of 500 lbs, this cargo carrier allows you to transport a range of items or loads.
- Durable Aluminum Construction: Crafted from lightweight, rust-proof aluminum, this cargo carrier is easy to clean and maintain. Its anchor points enhance security for your loads, ensuring a reliable transport experience. Under support frame is made from heavy duty powder coated steel.
- Enhanced Road Safety: Equipped with reflectors, this cargo carrier contributes to increased visibility on the road, enhancing safety for both you and other motorists.
- Robust Aluminum Construction: Crafted from extruded aluminum, this basket-style cargo carrier offers a blend of durability, lightweight design, and resistance to rust. Easy to install, clean, and maintain, it's a reliable choice for your hauling needs.
- Sturdy Under Support Frame: Boasting a heavy-duty steel under support frame, this carrier includes a 2" x 2" hitch shaft compatible with standard Class III and IV hitch receivers, ensuring secure attachment and dependable performance.
- Enhanced Safety Features: Equipped with reflector lenses and red corner accents, this carrier enhances visibility for safer journeys. The high side rails not only keep your cargo secure but also provide multiple tie-down points for added convenience.
- Instant Cargo Space Solution: Ideal for camping trips, long road adventures, or transporting items that you'd rather not place inside your vehicle, this cargo carrier offers instant and versatile storage space on demand.
- Generous Basket Dimensions: Outer basket dimensions measure 49-1/4 x 22-1/2 x 7-1/4 inches, while the inner basket dimensions are 47-1/4 x 20-1/4 x 6 inches, providing ample room for various cargo types and sizes.
- 【LOAD CAPACITY】750lb; 15 cu.ft of hauling capacity
- 【UNIVERSAL HITCH】Embrace the effortless compatibility of VEVOR utility trailer. Just connect the hitch of garden trailer to your existing tractors, lawnmowers, ATV, UTV, and more. Turn your yard hauling work into a breeze.
- 【HIGH CAPACITY TRAILER】 Our ATV dump trailer has added railings on three sides and can hold 15 cubic feet of yard waste. Collect more wood, soil, or garbage at once, reducing the need for frequent trips. Handle your yard work in one fell swoop with our high-capacity trailer.
- 【REINFORCED STEEL CONSTRUCTION】: Unlike most dump trailers, Unlike most dump trailers, VEVOR dump cart can carry up to 750 pound of items with improved details. The thickness of the side plates is increased to 0.04", and the side reinforcement is doubly secured. This improves the overall load-bearing capacity while effectively preventing deformation.
- 【TWO METHODS to QUICK RELEASE】: Say goodbye to the strain of manual handling. Our garden trailer boasts a user-friendly dump feature, allowing you to clear debris swiftly with a simple hand-pull or foot-step and a quick opening of the rear gate. Make your yard work less work and more comfortable.
The Ultimate Car Trailer Buying Guide
Buying a car trailer is a big decision. You need a safe way to move your vehicle. This guide helps you pick the right one. We cover what matters most.
Key Features to Look For
Good trailers have certain important features. These make loading, towing, and using the trailer easier and safer.
Capacity and Size
- Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. It tells you the maximum weight the trailer can safely carry, including the car and the trailer itself. Always buy a trailer rated higher than your heaviest car.
- Bed Dimensions: Measure the length and width of the car you plan to haul. Make sure the trailer bed is slightly larger than your car’s footprint.
Loading and Securing
- Ramps: Look for strong, easy-to-use ramps. Aluminum ramps are lighter. Steel ramps are often more durable. Some trailers have ramps that slide underneath for easy storage.
- Tie-Down Points (D-Rings): These metal loops let you strap your car down securely. More D-rings mean you have more options for safe securing.
Braking and Suspension
- Brakes: Electric or hydraulic brakes are essential, especially for heavier loads. Brakes on both axles (tandem axles) offer the best stopping power.
- Axle Type: Single-axle trailers are lighter but can be less stable. Tandem-axle trailers handle heavier loads better and offer redundancy if one tire fails.
Important Materials: What Makes a Strong Trailer?
The materials used directly affect how long your trailer lasts and how much weight it safely handles.
Frame and Decking
- Steel: Steel frames are very strong and usually cost less. However, steel needs good paint or protective coating to prevent rust. Rust reduces the quality over time.
- Aluminum: Aluminum trailers are much lighter. This means your tow vehicle uses less gas. Aluminum resists rust naturally, which is great for wet climates. They are often more expensive upfront.
- Wood Decking: Plywood is common for the floor. Pressure-treated wood lasts longer against weather. Check the thickness; thicker wood handles heavy vehicles better.
Hardware
- Always check the quality of the hinges, couplers, and jacks. Heavy-duty components last longer under stress.
Factors That Affect Quality
Not all trailers are built the same. A few details show you the real quality.
Factors That Improve Quality (Go For These)
- Sealed Wiring: Wiring that is protected inside the frame resists water damage and corrosion. This prevents lights from failing later.
- Quality Axles and Bearings: Reputable brands use better axles. Well-greased bearings stay cool while you tow, which prevents dangerous blowouts.
- Good Welds: Look closely at the joints where the metal pieces meet. Strong, smooth welds show expert construction.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Avoid These)
- Thin Paint Jobs: A thin coat of paint chips easily. Water gets underneath, and rust starts quickly.
- Light-Duty Tires: Cheap tires wear out fast and can fail under sustained highway speeds.
- No Suspension Components: Trailers that use simple leaf springs without proper shock absorption might bounce more, stressing the frame and the car being towed.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about why you need the trailer. This guides your choice.
Hauling Race Cars or Show Cars
If you move expensive vehicles, you need a low-profile trailer. A tilt deck or a very low ramp angle prevents scraping expensive bumpers or spoilers. You should look for a smooth ride, often provided by torsion axles.
Towing Everyday Vehicles or Project Cars
For general use, a durable, open-deck utility trailer works well. Ease of loading is key here. If you load and unload often, ramps that store easily underneath are a huge plus for user experience.
Towing Heavy Trucks or Equipment
Heavy loads demand heavy-duty construction. Ensure the trailer has tandem or triple axles and brakes on all wheels. The frame must be thick steel to manage the significant tongue weight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between a flatbed and a deck-over trailer?
A: A flatbed trailer has fenders that stick out past the main bed area. A deck-over trailer has the deck sitting above the wheels, offering a wider, unobstructed surface area.
Q: Do I need a license to tow a car trailer?
A: Most states do not require a special license if the combined weight (truck plus trailer and car) stays under a certain limit, often 10,000 or 26,000 pounds. Check your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) rules.
Q: How often should I grease my trailer bearings?
A: You should inspect and grease your wheel bearings at least once a year, or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. More frequent greasing is smart if you tow long distances or in very hot weather.
Q: What is tongue weight, and why does it matter?
A: Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer puts on your tow hitch. It should usually be 10% to 15% of the total trailer weight. Too little tongue weight causes dangerous swaying. Too much can overload your tow vehicle’s rear axle.
Q: Should I choose electric or hydraulic brakes?
A: Electric brakes are common and easy to control from your truck’s brake controller. Hydraulic brakes are more powerful and often used for very heavy commercial trailers, but they need more maintenance.
Q: How do I prevent my car from shifting during transport?
A: You must secure the car using heavy-duty ratchet straps attached to the car’s frame or axles and connected firmly to the trailer’s D-rings. Use at least four straps, crossing them in an X pattern for maximum stability.
Q: Are used trailers a good idea?
A: Used trailers can save money, but you must inspect them thoroughly. Look closely for frame cracks, rust damage, and check that all lights and brakes work perfectly before you buy.
Q: What is the easiest way to load a car by myself?
A: A trailer with built-in ramps that slide out is the easiest. Ensure the trailer is level, and always use wheel chocks once the car is positioned correctly on the deck.
Q: How does frame height affect loading?
A: A lower frame height means a shallower angle when the ramps are down. This reduces the risk of scraping the car’s undercarriage or front bumper during loading.
Q: What safety equipment must I have when towing?
A: You need safety chains connected under the hitch, proper trailer lights (brake, turn, running), working brakes (if required by weight), and breakaway battery systems for electric brakes.