With a swift uptick in popularity each year, the stacker trailer has become a well-loved solution for transporting vehicles with ease. The stacker trailer design is ideal for transporting motorbikes, automobiles, and other similar vehicles.
Its unique construction allows multiple vehicles to be transported in a more compact manner. Choosing the right trailer can be based on two considerations: your vehicle’s overall towing capacity and the cargo that will be transported. However, there are more factors to consider.
Keep reading to find out what stacker trailers are, why you should purchase them, and what to look our for.
What Is a Stacker Trailer?
Based on a similar design to a conventional hydraulic lift, a stacker trailer can raise a vehicle in the air to provide enough space for an additional vehicle below. The main purpose of this type of trailer is to hold and transport multiple vehicles within a shorter length.
It’s usually recommended that the towing vehicle be equipped with a hitch rating equal to the trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating. A motor coach or industrial truck usually has a strong enough hitch rating, but other towing vehicles can comfortably tow a stacker trailer.
A towing vehicle needs to have a stable wheelbase that can withstand strong wind conditions while in transit. Stacker trailers are usually constructed with aluminum or steel. Specific stacker trailer designs vary, depending on the manufacturer and the available options.
How Tall Is a Stacker Trailer?
It’s always a good idea to contact a professional to ensure the vehicle lengths are legally allowed on the roads in your area.
Stacker Trailer Height and Width
Motor coaches or industrial trucks are needed as towing vehicles due to their height, which ranges from 18 to 32 feet. The gooseneck stacker trailer is designed up to 48 feet in length.
Most stacker trailers are about 8.5 feet wide and can reach heights of up to 11 feet on the interior and 13 feet on the exterior. Stacker trailers can be constructed with V-nose or flat fronts, full-width front goosenecks, or slant-nose goosenecks.
Stacker Trailer Weight
Various elements comprise a stacker trailer’s weight:
- hitch weight (the percentage of curb weight)
- the GVWR (total capacity trailer and cargo)
- the approximate curb weight
- the approximate payload capacity
The hitch weight is 10 to 15% of the curb weight. The GVWR is usually about 15,500 lb. The curb weight is approximately 6,800 lb. The payload capacity can be over 8,000 lb, depending on the size of a stacker trailer.
What Are the Types of Stacker Trailers?
Here are the most popular types of stacker trailers offering various features:
Bumper Pull Stacker Trailer
The smaller option compared to the gooseneck trailer, the Bumper Pull is specifically designed to transport smaller vehicles and cargo. To use it, you must attach the trailer to the bumper or hitch on a vehicle. The hitch needs to be frame-mounted. Keep in mind that these types of stacker trailers can be difficult to position easily and don’t hold the road as effectively as the gooseneck stacker trailer.
Gooseneck Stacker Trailer
This stacker trailer hitches to the gooseneck ball located in the truck bed. It’s larger in size and designed to fit more vehicles. These types of stacker trailers are sturdier than Bumper Pulls and are also easier to maneuver.
Fifth-Wheel Stacker Trailer
The Fifth-Wheel Stacker is the smallest of the three options mentioned. It’s designed with a unique hitching mechanism. Compared to bumper pull stacker trailers, they offer more stability and maneuverability.
What Are the Benefits of Stacker Trailers?
If you aren’t sure whether a stacker trailer is the right choice, here are the main reasons why you should consider buying it:
Reduced Risk
If stacker trailers are designed well, they will ensure vehicles are properly protected while in transit, especially when loaded with valuable cargo. The risk of vehicle damage, potential road accidents, and liabilities for drivers are significantly reduced if the stacker trailer has a well-designed and secure structure. A premium stacker trailer from Millenium Trailers will save you money in the long run. The lowered risk of accidental damages will help to prevent repair costs and insurance issues.
Space Savvy
Space is optimized as multiple vehicles can be transported in a single trip. The vehicles can be securely stacked on top of one another, offering the ultimate space-saving solution. Additional fuel and time costs for multiple trips are no longer a problem.
Secure Solution
The stacker trailer design emphasizes protection and security for all the vehicles in transit. These trailers are fully enclosed, protecting the vehicle from harsh weather conditions.
Accessible
The time needed to prepare the vehicles for transport is significantly reduced. The lift system is designed to elevate and pull down the deck for seamless vehicle loading and off-loading.
Tailor-Made
You’ll have the choice of size, axle number, and other configurations to create the perfect stacker trailer to suit your individual needs.
Factors to Consider when Buying a Stacker Trailer
Dimensions
The size of the trailer should be large enough to fit all your vehicles. The dimensions of stacker trailers vary, so ensure that enough space is available for the type of vehicles you wish to transport simultaneously.
Hitching
The type of hitch included with the stacker trailer needs to be compatible with your towing vehicle. Fifth-wheel and gooseneck stacker trailers require a specific hitch, whereas bumper pull stacker trailers are compatible with various towing vehicles.
Manufacturing
Strength and durability are important factors when choosing a stacker trailer. Premium materials will ensure a sturdy construction. The vehicle’s suspension is also an important consideration.
Additional Features
Specific features such as interior lighting, multiple storage options, air conditioning, a generator option, and a lift system will help to ensure convenience and satisfaction on any trip. Other features include rear ramp doors, transition flaps, and ramp extensions. These items will ensure the convenience of loading and retrieving vehicles.
Stacker Trailer Maintenance in 4 Steps
Caring for your stacker trailer is important to ensure decent long-term use. Regular maintenance will help reduce future costs that may arise.
Inspect
Your stacker trailer should undergo regular inspections. Test brakes and lights, and check tires for wear and tear or replace them when necessary. Any issues should be handled immediately to prevent a more costly situation in the future.
Clean
Regular cleaning is also essential. Avoid using chemical or abrasive products, as these can cause lasting damage to the trailer. Simply apply soap and water to clean the interior and exterior.
Oil
The components of the stacker trailer, especially the lift system, require regular lubrication. Invest in a premium lubricant product to ensure that the trailer’s mechanics can perform effectively.
Protect
When your stacker trailer isn’t in transit, stow it away in a covered area that isn’t exposed to the elements. Proper protection will help to limit rust and corrosion issues. Outside storage must include a cover to ensure damage from sun and rain.
Axle Capacity
Understanding the role of the axle is important. It’s not just a case of choosing the largest axle and fitting it under your trailer. If there isn’t a large enough load for the axle, the trailer frame can become easily damaged, and the trailer won’t provide sufficient stability while in transit.
Calculate the weight of your desired cargo to be transported, and get in touch with us to help you select the correct axle or customize your stacker trailer from scratch.
Millennium Trailers – Your Partner in Customizing the Perfect Stacker Trailer
With the right research and preparation, choosing a stacker trailer becomes a smart, safe, and convenient option for towing, helping you avoid unexpected costs by reducing potential damage.
A well-designed lift system makes loading easier, and at Millennium Trailers, you can fully customize your stacker trailer to suit your specific needs. Consider the required size and your vehicle’s towing capacity, and soon, you’ll be transporting all your vehicles smoothly and efficiently.
Explore Millennium Trailers today to find or customize the perfect stacker trailer for your needs!
References
- https://www.theindustryoutlook.com/services-and-consulting/news/the-importance-of-stacker-trailer-design-for-safe-transportation-of-your-vehicles-nwid-9517.html, June 2024, Bangalore, India.
- https://www.statista.com/statistics/470503/industrial-trucks-tracktors-trailers-and-stackers-industry-ad-spend-usa/, 2021-2022, New York, USA.
- https://data.census.gov/profile/333924_-_Industrial_truck,_trailer,_and_stacker_machinery_manufacturing?n=333924&g=010XX00US, 2024, US Department of Commerce.
