When transporting vehicles, choosing the right car hauler is critical for ensuring safety and cost-effectiveness. Whether you’re moving a vehicle to a new home, showcasing it at a car show, or delivering it to a client, a reliable car hauler is indispensable. Both open and enclosed trailers protect your vehicle from road debris and unpredictable weather, while also saving money in the long term by reducing wear and tear from extended road use. Using a car hauler preserves your vehicle’s value, appearance, and functionality, making it a smart investment for both personal and professional use.
With numerous options on the market, selecting the ideal trailer can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the essential considerations to help you choose the best car hauler for your needs.
What Is a Car Hauler Trailer?
A car hauler trailer is designed to transport vehicles, either one at a time or several simultaneously. When people refer to “car hauler trailers,” they could mean any trailer used to move cars. However, some may specifically mean wedge car haulers, which can carry multiple vehicles on a single trip.
Choosing the Right Trailer for Your Needs
Open Car Hauler vs. Enclosed Car Hauler
The choice between an open and enclosed car hauler depends largely on your budget and purpose.
- Open Car Haulers: These are economical and ideal for infrequent or short-distance vehicle transportation. Open car trailers are easy to load and unload, making them a practical choice for casual use. However, they leave the vehicle exposed to the elements, which is a consideration if transporting valuable or vintage cars.
- Enclosed Car Haulers: If you frequently transport vehicles or work with high-value cargo, enclosed car haulers provide superior protection from weather, theft, and debris. They are especially useful for longer trips or situations where preserving the vehicle’s pristine condition is crucial.
Car Hauler Size
Car haulers come in a range of sizes to suit different transportation needs. For a single vehicle, a standard size like 8.5’ x 20’ or 8.5’ x 24’ is sufficient. Larger trailers can carry multiple cars simultaneously, making them ideal for dealerships or transport companies. Always assess the size of the vehicles you’ll transport and how many you need to move at once.
Car Hauler Weight
Understanding weight limits is crucial for safe and efficient transportation. Trailers are rated by their Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which indicates the maximum weight they can safely carry.
To calculate your trailer’s total load capacity, subtract the trailer’s empty weight from its GVWR:
Trailer GVWR – Trailer Empty Weight = Safe Tow Weight
This calculation will help ensure your trailer can handle the weight of the vehicle(s) you plan to haul without risking damage to the trailer, tow vehicle, or cargo.
Tow Vehicle Considerations
The tow vehicle is just as important as the trailer itself. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to confirm its towing capacity, ensuring it can safely handle the combined weight of the trailer and its load.
Trailer Materials
Car haulers are typically constructed from either aluminum or steel, each with its own advantages:
- Aluminum Trailers: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and low-maintenance, aluminum is a great option for those prioritizing durability and ease of use.
- Steel Trailers: Known for their heavy-duty strength, steel trailers are highly durable and long-lasting. Ensure your steel trailer is coated to prevent rust and extend its lifespan.
Types of Car Hauler Trailers
Enclosed Car Haulers
- Standard Enclosed Trailer: A basic, box-enclosed trailer perfect for individual vehicle transportation.
- Multi-Car Enclosed Trailer: Designed to carry two or more vehicles, ideal for businesses needing efficient multi-car transport.
- Gooseneck or Fifth-Wheel Trailers: Equipped with specialized hitches, these trailers improve weight distribution and stability, making them ideal for heavier loads.
Open Car Haulers
- Standard Open Trailer: A budget-friendly, flatbed option for transporting individual vehicles.
- Multi-Car Open Trailer: Ranging from two to several cars in capacity, these are excellent for larger transport needs.
- Wedge Open Trailer: Features a slanted design that simplifies loading and unloading vehicles.
- Tilt-Deck Open Trailer: Uses a hydraulic lift to tilt the bed, making it easier to load low-clearance vehicles.
Popular Car Hauler Models
- Homesteader 8.5×20 Enclosed Car Hauler: This high-quality enclosed trailer includes a loading ramp for convenience, providing ample space and protection for vehicles.
- Sure-Trac 7×20 Open Car Hauler: A durable steel open trailer with slide-in ramps, diamond plate fenders, and a powder-coated finish for long-lasting use.
- Sundowner 8×24 Open Deckover Car Hauler: This lightweight aluminum trailer features a spacious design with rub rails, a bump rail, and an interlocking plank floor, perfect for motorcycles, ATVs, and cars.
Final Thoughts
A car hauler trailer is an invaluable tool for moving vehicles safely and efficiently. By considering factors like size, weight capacity, material, and trailer type, you can select the perfect hauler for your needs. Whether transporting a single car or managing large-scale vehicle deliveries, investing in the right trailer ensures your cargo reaches its destination in optimal condition.
Visit Grizzly Trailer Sales, or give us a call to explore our inventory and find your ideal car hauler today!
