Do you have a car that needs to be transported, but you’re not sure what size trailer is needed?
Transporting a vehicle can seem overwhelming, and it’s important to make sure your car is properly secured for travel. Knowing the size of trailer needed for the job can help you ensure that your car gets to its destination safely and securely.
In this article, we’ll discuss the factors that play a role in determining the size of trailer needed to haul a car. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right size trailer for your vehicle.
Read on to learn more about what size trailer is needed to haul a car.
The size of the trailer you need to haul a car will depend on the type and size of the car you are hauling. Generally, a standard enclosed trailer will be suitable for most vehicles, although larger vehicles such as SUVs or vans may require a larger trailer.
Enclosed Trailers
Enclosed trailers are the most common type of trailer used for hauling cars. They are typically made of aluminum or steel, and have either a flat or sloped roof. They come in a variety of sizes and can be customized to fit your specific needs. Enclosed trailers provide more protection from the elements than open trailers, and can be used for long-distance car hauling.
Open Trailers
Open trailers are the second most popular type of trailer for car hauling. These trailers are typically made of steel and have no roof. This makes them an ideal choice for short-distance hauling, as they provide less protection from the elements than enclosed trailers. Open trailers come in many different sizes, making them suitable for both large and small vehicles.
Flatbed Trailers
Flatbed trailers are a great option for those who need to transport large vehicles such as excavators, cranes, and bulldozers. These types of trailers feature a flat bed that can be customized with various attachments depending on what you need to haul. Flatbeds can also be used to transport cars, but it is important to be aware that they provide less protection from the elements than enclosed or open trailers.
Car Carrier Trailers
Car carrier trailers are specifically designed for transporting multiple cars at once. These types of trailers feature a number of levels on which cars can be loaded, allowing up to five cars to be transported at once. They are typically made of steel and have either an enclosed or open design.
Utility Trailers
Utility trailers are smaller versions of enclosed or open trailers that are typically used for smaller loads such as ATV’s, lawn mowers, and motorcycles. They come in many different sizes and can often be rented from local hardware stores or rental companies if you don’t need one long-term.
Calculating the Appropriate Size Trailer to Haul a Car
Hauling a car with a trailer can be a daunting task. It is important to calculate the appropriate size trailer for the job, as too large or too small a trailer can lead to a number of problems both in terms of safety and convenience. Here’s how to calculate the right size to safely and conveniently haul your car.
The first step when calculating the appropriate size trailer is to determine the weight of your vehicle. You can find this information on either the manufacturer’s label or from your car’s registration documents. Once you have established the weight of your car, you must add an additional 200-300 pounds for any additional items that you may be carrying with you, such as luggage or camping gear.
The next step is to determine what type of trailer will best suit your needs. The most common types are open trailers, flatbed trailers and enclosed trailers. Open trailers are typically used for light-duty hauling, while flatbed trailers are better suited for heavier loads and enclosed trailers provide greater protection from weather conditions while hauling heavier items.
Once you have determined which type of trailer will be best suited for your needs, it is time to determine what size trailer you need. Generally speaking, an open trailer should have a capacity of at least twice that of the total weight of your vehicle and any additional items that will be included in the hauling process. If you are using an enclosed or flatbed trailer, then you should aim for at least three times this amount in order to ensure sufficient capacity for safe and convenient hauling.
Finally, it is important to consider other factors such as the length and width of your vehicle when selecting a suitable size trailer. If your vehicle is larger than usual then it may require an oversize trailer in order to accommodate its dimensions safely and comfortably during transit. Additionally, if you plan on making frequent trips with your trailer then it may be beneficial to select one that has adjustable suspension settings in order to ensure optimal performance during all journeys.
By following these steps carefully and taking into account all relevant factors when selecting a suitable size trailer for hauling your car, you can rest assured that both yourself and your belongings will make it safely from point A to point B without any unwanted surprises along the way!
Checking the Tow Vehicle, Trailer and Car
When hauling a car on a trailer, it is essential to ensure that all safety measures are taken. The tow vehicle, trailer and car should be inspected for any signs of damage or wear before beginning the journey. Check the brakes and lights on both the tow vehicle and trailer. Make sure that the trailer is securely attached to the tow vehicle with chains, ropes or straps. Additionally, check the tire pressure of both vehicles, as well as any other parts of the vehicles that may need attention such as mirrors or windows.
Loading and Securing the Car
Once you have inspected all your vehicles, you can begin loading your car onto the trailer. Position your car in such a way that it will remain balanced while being towed. Securely fasten your car down using straps or tie-downs at each corner of the car to prevent it from shifting during transit. Make sure that these straps are tightened enough so that they will not come loose during transport but not too tight so as to cause damage.
Additional Safety Measures
It is important to also consider additional safety measures when hauling a car on a trailer. Make sure you have an emergency kit in case of breakdowns or accidents. This should include items such as flares, first aid kit, jumper cables, flashlight and a toolbox with basic items such as screwdriver set, pliers and wrenches. Additionally, it is always wise to tell someone where you are going and when you expect to arrive at your destination.
Finally, make sure you drive safely according to local speed limits and road conditions. It is also important to be aware of any sharp turns or hazardous road conditions as these may cause instability while hauling a car on a trailer. By following these essential safety measures when hauling a car on a trailer, you can ensure that your journey will be safe and successful.
Open Trailers
Open trailers are the most common type of trailer for hauling a car. They generally have no roof, walls or sides and are open to the elements. The advantages of using an open trailer for hauling a car include: they are cheaper to hire or buy compared to other types of trailers, they can be easily loaded and unloaded due to their open design, and they can haul more than one car at once. The main disadvantage of using an open trailer is that the car being transported is exposed to the elements and is more likely to suffer damage due to wind, rain or flying debris.
Enclosed Trailers
Enclosed trailers are great for protecting cars from the elements during transportation as they feature walls, roofs and sides that protect against wind, rain and flying debris. The advantages of using an enclosed trailer include: complete protection from the weather while being transported and increased security from theft. The main disadvantage of using an enclosed trailer is that they cost more than open trailers and cannot haul multiple cars at once.
Flatbed Trailers
Flatbed trailers are ideal for transporting heavier vehicles such as vans, trucks or tractors as they feature a flat bed with no sides or roof which makes loading and unloading easier than with other types of trailers. The advantages of using a flatbed trailer include: increased stability when transporting heavy objects due to the flat bed design, increased flexibility when loading and unloading vehicles due to its flat surface design, increased visibility while driving due to its lack of walls or roof. The main disadvantages associated with flatbed trailers include: increased risk of theft due to lack of walls or roof, increased risk of damage due to wind or flying debris while being transported.
Tilt Trailers
Tilt trailers are designed with a tilting bed which makes them ideal for hauling cars as they can be quickly loaded by simply pushing the vehicle up onto the tilt bed without having to lift it up onto a flatbed trailer. The advantages associated with tilt trailers include: ease of loading thanks to its tilt bed design, ability to transport low-clearance vehicles without having to lift them up onto a flatbed trailer, increased stability when transporting cars due to its tilt bed design. The main disadvantages associated with tilt trailers include: higher cost compared to other types of trailers, lower load capacity compared to other types of trailers as well as limited visibility while driving due to its closed side panels and roof.
Double Check Hitch and Coupler
When towing a trailer, it’s important to check the hitch and coupler connection before setting off on your journey. Make sure the coupler is securely latched onto the ball mount. Also, be sure to check the hitch ball itself is properly tightened and has enough lubricant. If any parts appear rusty or worn out, replace them before hitting the road.
Check Lights and Brakes
Before each trip, make sure all lights are working properly – including brake lights, turn signals and running lights. Checking your brakes is also essential for safe hauling – make sure they are in good working order before setting out. If you’re using electric brakes on your trailer, it’s a good idea to disconnect them when you’re not in use as this can help extend their life.
Secure Your Load
It’s important to secure your load so that it does not shift or become damaged during transport. Consider investing in straps or ratchet tie-downs to anchor your load down safely. Make sure you keep an eye on the straps throughout your journey as they may need adjusting if you encounter any bumps or unexpected movements.
Check Tire Pressure
Before each trip, make sure all of your tires are correctly inflated – including those on both the vehicle and trailer. Having correctly inflated tires will ensure maximum control while driving as well as better fuel efficiency. It’s also a good idea to check that they are wearing evenly by looking at each tire’s tread depth.
Pack Wisely
Pack your items carefully so there is no risk of them falling off or shifting during transit. Place heavier items towards the front of the trailer and lighter items closer to the rear. Use dividers between different types of cargo if necessary and make sure everything is securely fastened down with straps or bungee cords.
Test Drive
Before setting off on a long journey with a trailer in tow, it’s important to do a ‘test drive’ first around a local area where you’re familiar with the roads so that you get used to how it feels when driving with a load behind you.<
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a trailer is the biggest factor to consider when selecting an appropriate trailer for hauling a car. When loading a vehicle, it’s important to keep the gross weight of the trailer and the vehicle combined within its rated capacity. You should also factor in other items such as fuel, supplies, and tools that may be stored in the trailer. For this reason, it’s best to look for a trailer that offers more than enough capacity so you can be sure you can haul your car safely.
Size
The size of your trailer will depend on the type of car you’re hauling and how much room it needs to fit comfortably. A larger trailer will provide more space for cargo and supplies and can easily accommodate bigger vehicles such as SUVs or trucks. However, be sure to take into account the tow vehicle’s capabilities when selecting a size so you can ensure it won’t be overloaded.
Towing Features
When selecting an appropriate trailer for hauling a car, it’s important to consider what type of towing features are included. Look for features such as electric brakes, breakaways, adjustable couplers, safety chains, and surge brakes that will help make your journey safer and more stable. You should also check if there are any special features such as air ride suspensions or tilt beds that can provide added convenience.
Material & Construction
When selecting an appropriate trailer for hauling a car, it’s important to look at the material and construction of the trailer. Look for trailers made from durable materials such as aluminum or steel with heavy-duty frames and welded joints that will provide strong support while on the road. Additionally, look out for details such as rust-proofing or waterproofing treatments to ensure your vehicle remains secure even in harsh weather conditions.
Security Features
Security is also an important factor to consider when selecting an appropriate trailer for hauling a car. Look for trailers with multiple locks that offer protection against theft while on the road. Other security features such as enclosed cargo areas or heavy-duty straps can help secure any loose items inside your cargo area so they don’t shift around during transit.
Check Tire Pressure
Before hauling your vehicle, it is important to check the tire pressure. Make sure the tires are properly inflated and that the pressure is equal on all four tires. This will ensure a smooth ride while your vehicle is being hauled. Be sure to check both the front and rear tires, as well as the spare if you have one. If any of the tires are low on air, add additional air until they are all at the same level.
Check Tire Condition
Inspect your tires for any signs of wear or damage. If you can see any worn treads, bald patches, or cracks in the sidewall of your tires, they need to be replaced before you haul your vehicle. It is also a good idea to check for any nails or other foreign objects that may have gotten stuck in your tire.
Check Fluids
Checking your fluids is an important step when preparing your vehicle for hauling. Make sure all of your fluids are at their proper levels and that there are no leaks from any hoses or other components. Check the oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid levels.
Unnumbered List:
– Oil
– Transmission Fluid
– Brake Fluid
– Coolant
– Power Steering Fluid
Check Battery Connections
It is important to make sure that all battery connections are secure before hauling your vehicle. Check that all connections are tight and free of corrosion. If any connections appear loose or corroded, replace them before you try to haul your vehicle.
Check Lights and Signals
Make sure all of your lights and signals are working properly before hauling your vehicle. This includes headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights. Have someone help you by standing behind the car while you use each light or signal to make sure it works properly.
Conclusion
To haul a car, you need to determine the trailer size that is suitable for the car. Generally, a trailer should be 15-20% longer than the car being hauled and at least 8 feet wide. The size of the trailer should also depend on the type of car being hauled and its weight. If you are hauling a large vehicle, such as an SUV or truck, then you may need a larger trailer. Additionally, it is important to consider the total weight of your cargo and choose a trailer that is capable of safely carrying your load.
Overall, it is important to consider the size and weight of your vehicle when selecting the right size trailer. Make sure to choose a trailer that is capable of safely carrying your load and has enough room for your cargo.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you select the right size trailer for hauling your car or other vehicle safely and securely.
About the author
William Getty lives and breathes cars. He started driving cars as a 12 year old on the racetrack with his dad. Since then cars has always been a big part of Williams life.
In his garage you can find his beloved 2005 Ford Mustang, as well as a 2020 Audi A3.
