Figuring out the right car trailer size is actually quite a simple task. Regardless of what you are hauling – whether it’s a classic coupe or a large SUV – knowing your car trailer dimensions can mean the difference between a comfortable car trailer towing experience and a journey full of headaches.
The finer points of a car trailer size are important. From the width of your typical car trailer to the car trailer length, each measurement directly affects how your vehicle fits, how it tows, and how it handles on the road.
Through this short guide, we shall delineate the standard car trailer dimensions before offering a few tips for choosing the right trailer size. We have even included a handy car trailer dimensions chart to make your decision-making simple.
Key Points
- Choose the Right Length: Car trailer lengths typically range from 16 to 50 feet, depending on whether you’re hauling one car or multiple vehicles.
- Check the Width: The standard car trailer width is between 6.5 and 8.5 feet, allowing for most vehicles to fit comfortably.
- Enclosed vs. Open Trailers: Enclosed trailers offer protection from weather, while open trailers are lighter and easier to tow.
- Understand Weight Limits: Always match the trailer’s weight capacity to your vehicle’s size and the towing vehicle’s capacity.
- Consider Special Features: Tilt beds, gooseneck designs, or hydraulic lifts may be necessary for specific hauling needs.
- Verify Clearance: Ensure the trailer’s ramp length and door height accommodate the car’s ground clearance and size.
Car Trailer Sizes
When considering car trailer dimensions, three measurements are relevant: width, height, and the car trailer length. Each one is important for making sure your car fits securely while ensuring the trailer is compatible with your tow vehicle.
In general terms, the car trailer length, width, and height can be broken down as follows:
- Car Trailer Width: Most car trailers are between 7 and 8.5 feet wide. A compact car may fit on a 7-foot-wide trailer, but larger vehicles typically need an 8.5-foot width to avoid scraping the sides.
- Car Trailer Length: The typical car trailer length ranges from 16 to 24 feet. A 16-foot trailer can handle most sedans, while longer trailers are ideal for SUVs or multiple vehicles.
- Height for Enclosed Trailers: Enclosed car trailers often have heights ranging from 6 to 8 feet. This added dimension protects vehicles from the weather but can increase wind drag while towing.
What Size Enclosed Trailer Do You Need for a Car?
If you are leaning toward an enclosed trailer, you might be wondering, “What size enclosed trailer do I need for a car?” Generally, the answer depends on your car’s size and how much room you want for extras like tools or spare parts.
Larger SUVs or trucks often need a 20 to 24-foot enclosed trailer to comfortably accommodate their length and height. As a result, you are probably looking at similar sizes.
Generally speaking, a 16-foot enclosed trailer is perfect for smaller vehicles like sedans or coupes.
Common Enclosed Trailer Sizes
Enclosed trailers offer a variety of options, but some sizes are more common than others:
- 7×16 feet: Suitable for compact cars or single vehicles with minimal storage.
- 8.5×20 feet: A versatile option that fits most standard cars and provides additional storage space.
- 8.5×24 feet: Best for larger vehicles or those needing extra room for tools and accessories.>/li>
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Car Trailer Size Guide
While the most common car trailer size relates to open car and enclosed trailers, the following chart details the various car trailers available, together with their corresponding car trailer dimensions.
Trailer Type | Length | Width | Features/Uses |
Open Car Hauler | 16–24 feet | 6.5–8.5 feet | Lightweight, cost-effective, suitable for single-car transport, with ramps for easy loading. |
Enclosed Car Hauler | 16–28 feet | 8–8.5 feet | Protects vehicles from weather and debris, ideal for classic or luxury cars. |
Gooseneck Trailer | 20–40+ feet | 8.5 feet | Heavy-duty hauling for multiple or oversized vehicles, offers better stability. |
Hydraulic Tilt Trailer | 16–22 feet | 6.5–8.5 feet | Hydraulic tilt bed for easier loading of low-clearance vehicles. |
Multi-Car Hauler | 40–50+ feet | 8.5 feet | Transports two or more vehicles, used by dealerships or for cross-country transport. |
Deckover Trailer | 18–30+ feet | 8.5 feet | Deck positioned over the wheels, suitable for wide or unconventional vehicles. |
Aluminum Car Trailer | 16–24 feet | 6.5–8.5 feet | Lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to tow, available in open or enclosed configurations. |
How Wide Are Car Trailers?
Car trailer width varies depending on the type and purpose of the trailer:
- Standard Car Trailer Width: The standard width for most car trailers is 8.5 feet, which fits almost all vehicles.
- Narrower Options: Some trailers, like those designed for compact cars, are as narrow as 7 feet.
- Wider Trailers: Trailers exceeding 8.5 feet are often custom-built or designed for specific needs, like hauling oversized vehicles.
When considering the car trailer width, always account for the total width, including wheel wells, to ensure proper clearance!
Pro Tip!
When selecting a car trailer size, always account for extra space. A trailer slightly longer than your car ensures easier loading, prevents damage, and accommodates additional equipment like tie-downs or ramps.
Choosing the Right Car Trailer Size
Picking the right car trailer size usually starts with measuring the towing vehicle. Start by using a tape measure to determine its width, length, and height, and compare these numbers to standard car trailer dimensions.
Here’s a quick guide:
- If your car is 16 feet long or less, a 16-foot trailer will suffice.
- For larger vehicles, opt for 20 to 24-foot trailers.
- Always check the weight rating of the trailer to ensure it matches your tow vehicle’s capacity.
Bottom Line on Car Trailer Size
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Knowing the correct car trailer sizes, from width to length, should result in smooth and stress-free hauling. Just use the chart and tips provided in this guide to find the perfect trailer for your requirements, and you should be good to go.
Ready to find the perfect car trailer size for your towing needs? At Millennium Trailers, we have a wide selection of quality used trailers of all types and sizes. Our experienced team will guide you through every aspect of your purchase so that you can drive away with a reliable, safe, reasonably priced car trailer!
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Sources
https://www.4wheelparts.com/articles/everything-you-need-to-know-about-car-trailers
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210983817301232
https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/articles/car-trailer-key-piece-racing-equipment-never-sets-/