Ever wondered how those shiny new cars get to the dealerships? Or maybe you’ve dreamt of hauling your own classic car to shows? The answer often lies with a car hauler trailer! But choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. With so many different types, sizes, and features, it’s easy to get lost and overwhelmed.
The truth is, picking the wrong car hauler can be a costly mistake. You might end up with a trailer that’s too small, too heavy, or just not right for your needs. This can lead to damage to your vehicles, wasted money, and a whole lot of frustration. That’s why understanding the basics is super important before you buy.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know to choose the perfect car hauler trailer. You’ll learn about the different types, the key features to consider, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll be confident in your ability to select the perfect trailer for your car hauling needs. So, let’s dive in and get you on the road to hauling success!
Our Top 5 Car Hauler Trailer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Car Hauler Trailer Detailed Reviews
1. DIY Open Car Hauler Trailer Plans – Build Your Own Auto Carrier
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of expensive car hauling fees? Want to build something awesome with your own hands? The “DIY Open Car Hauler Trailer Plans – Build Your Own Auto Carrier” is the answer. These plans let you build your own trailer to move cars and trucks. It’s a fun project for anyone who likes to work on things. The plans are easy to follow. You’ll get everything you need to build your own trailer.
What We Like:
- You get detailed plans to build your own car hauler.
- The instructions are step-by-step. You won’t get lost!
- A complete list of parts is included. You can easily find everything you need.
- It’s great for moving your own vehicles. It is easy and convenient.
What Could Be Improved:
- Building a trailer takes time and effort.
- You’ll need some tools and some experience.
This DIY project is a great way to save money and build something useful. If you like to build things and need a car hauler, these plans are a great choice!
2. KJE Heavy Duty Car Trailer Tie Down Straps 4 Pack Kit – 2″ x 8′ Ratchet Straps + J-Hooks with Clip
Rating: 9.1/10
The KJE Heavy Duty Car Trailer Tie Down Straps are built to help you move your vehicles safely. This kit includes four straps. You get 2″ x 8′ ratchet straps and 2″ x 36″ axle straps. They can handle a break strength of 10,000 pounds! The straps are perfect for cars, trucks, and UTVs. They are made to keep your vehicles secure during transport.
What We Like:
- The straps are made with strong polyester webbing.
- The kit includes J-hooks with safety clips. They won’t slip.
- The ratchets have TPR handles. They are easy on your hands.
- All the metal parts are zinc plated. This helps protect them from rust.
- The axle straps have extra yellow protection.
- A sturdy bag is included. You can store the straps easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- It would be great if the instructions were a bit clearer.
- Some users might prefer a different color than black for the webbing.
This KJE strap kit is a good choice for hauling your vehicles. The straps are strong and easy to use. You can trust these straps to get the job done.
3. MaxxHaul 70225 Trailer Dolly with 12″ Pneumatic Tires – 600 Lb. Maximum Capacity
Rating: 8.7/10
Need an easier way to move your trailer? The MaxxHaul 70225 Trailer Dolly is here to help! This dolly lets you move trailers easily. It works great for boats, utility trailers, and jet skis. It can handle trailers with a tongue weight up to 600 pounds. This dolly saves you time and energy.
What We Like:
- Effortless Maneuvering: This dolly makes moving trailers a breeze.
- Smooth Ride: The 12-inch pneumatic tires roll smoothly over different surfaces.
- Built Strong: It is made with heavy-duty steel. This makes it last a long time.
- Weather Resistant: A powder coat finish protects the dolly from the weather.
- Easy to Assemble: You can set it up quickly with simple instructions.
What Could Be Improved:
- (We will update this section after further testing.)
The MaxxHaul 70225 Trailer Dolly is a useful tool for anyone with a trailer. It is a great option for making trailer movement less of a hassle.
4. KJE 4 Pack Car Tie Down Straps for Trailers – Tire Ratchet Strap with Flat Hooks – 2″ x 10′ 10
Rating: 9.0/10
Need to haul your car, truck, or UTV? The KJE 4 Pack Car Tie Down Straps are here to help! These heavy-duty straps are made for securing vehicles to trailers. They use a ratchet system and flat hooks. They are designed to be easy to use and keep your vehicles safe. The straps come in black and are made of strong materials. They’re perfect for anyone who needs to transport their vehicles safely.
What We Like:
- The straps have a strong 10,000-pound break strength. This gives you peace of mind.
- The set comes with a sturdy storage bag. It makes it easy to keep the straps organized.
- The flat hooks and ratchets are zinc-plated. This helps protect them from rust.
- The handle on the ratchet is made of TPR. This makes it comfortable to use.
- The straps are made of strong polyester webbing. They are also wear-resistant.
- The straps fit any cars, SUVs, and UTVs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be clearer for first-time users.
Overall, the KJE car tie-down straps are a great choice for hauling vehicles. They are strong, easy to use, and come with handy features. This makes them a reliable option for anyone needing to transport their car.
5. Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly Super-Duty 7500lbs Max Trailer Weight
Rating: 8.9/10
The Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly is a heavy-duty tool that helps you move your trailers. It can tow up to 7500lbs, making it great for RVs, toy haulers, and campers. It has all-terrain wheels and a powerful motor. This dolly makes maneuvering your trailer easier and safer.
What We Like:
- Super-Duty Power: It can tow heavy trailers like RVs and toy haulers.
- All-Terrain Ready: The wheels work well on many different surfaces.
- Easy Setup: The design makes it simple to set up and use.
- Long-lasting: It has a maintenance-free drive system.
- Safe: It comes with a 7-pin socket for trailer brakes.
- Adjustable: The ball height adjusts to fit many trailers.
What Could Be Improved:
- Battery Maintenance: The batteries will need to be maintained over time.
- Price: This may be a more expensive option than a standard dolly.
The Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly is a great tool for people who need to move heavy trailers. It’s strong and easy to use, making it a good choice for many different types of trailers.
Hauling Cars: Your Guide to the Best Car Hauler Trailer
Getting a car hauler trailer is a big deal. You want to make sure you get the right one. This guide will help you. It will cover everything you need to know.
Key Features to Look For
You need to know what makes a good car hauler. Here are some important features:
- Weight Capacity: How much weight can the trailer carry? This is very important! Check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). It tells you the maximum weight the trailer can handle. Make sure it’s higher than your car’s weight!
- Deck Size: How long and wide is the trailer’s platform? You need enough room for your car. Measure your car and compare it to the trailer’s deck.
- Ramps: How does your car get on the trailer? Ramps can be included or sold separately. Look for long, sturdy ramps. They make loading easier.
- Tie-Down Points: These are where you secure your car to the trailer. Look for plenty of strong tie-down points. They should be in good places to hold your car safely.
- Brakes: Most car haulers need brakes. They help you stop safely, especially when carrying a heavy car. Make sure the trailer has brakes that work well.
- Suspension: The suspension is important for a smooth ride. Look for a good suspension system. This will protect your car from bumps.
- Trailer Lights: Trailers need lights. Make sure they work and are easy to see. You need brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
Important Materials
What the trailer is made of matters. Here are some important materials:
- Steel: Steel is strong. It is a common material for car hauler frames. It can handle heavy loads.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lighter than steel. It is also rust-resistant. This can be a great choice.
- Wood: The deck of the trailer is often made of wood. Look for treated wood. This helps protect it from weather damage.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a trailer better. Others make it worse. Here’s what to look for:
- Welding: Good welds are strong. They hold the trailer together. Check the welds carefully. They should look clean and solid.
- Paint/Coating: A good paint job protects the trailer from rust. Look for a durable coating.
- Axles: The axles support the weight. They need to be strong and reliable.
- Tires: Good tires are important for safety. They should be the right size and in good condition.
- Construction: The overall build quality matters. Look for a well-built trailer. It should look sturdy and well-made.
- Maintenance: You should maintain your trailer. Regular maintenance will extend its life.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use the trailer? Here are some things to think about:
- Loading and Unloading: Is it easy to load and unload your car? Think about the ramps and deck height.
- Towing: Does the trailer tow smoothly? Check how it handles on the road.
- Storage: Where will you store the trailer when you are not using it? Make sure you have enough space.
- Use Cases: You might use your car hauler for many things. You might transport your own car, or transport vehicles for work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about car hauler trailers:
Q: What kind of license do I need to tow a car hauler?
A: It depends on your state. Some states require a special license for towing heavy trailers. Check your state’s laws.
Q: How do I know if my car will fit on the trailer?
A: Measure your car. Then, compare its length and width to the trailer’s deck size.
Q: What is GVWR?
A: GVWR stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. It is the maximum weight the trailer can handle, including the car and anything else you put on it.
Q: How do I secure my car to the trailer?
A: Use tie-down straps. Attach them to the car’s frame or designated tie-down points. Make sure the straps are tight and secure.
Q: How often should I inspect my car hauler trailer?
A: Inspect it before each trip. Check the tires, lights, brakes, and tie-down points. Also, inspect it regularly for rust or damage.
Q: What kind of maintenance does a car hauler need?
A: You should grease the wheel bearings. You also need to check the tires and brakes. You should also check the lights. Clean and protect the trailer from rust.
Q: Can I tow a car hauler with any vehicle?
A: No. Your vehicle needs a tow rating that is high enough. It also needs a proper hitch. Check your vehicle’s manual.
Q: What are the different types of car hauler trailers?
A: There are many types. These include open trailers, enclosed trailers, and tilt-bed trailers.
Q: What’s the difference between a bumper pull and a gooseneck trailer?
A: Bumper pull trailers attach to your vehicle’s bumper. Gooseneck trailers attach to a ball in your truck’s bed.
Q: Where can I buy a car hauler trailer?
A: You can buy them at trailer dealerships. You can also find them online. Be sure to compare prices and features.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!