If you have a pickup and need to move a vehicle, finding the right car hauler trailer can save you hundreds in towing fees. After testing and researching 10 different options, our team put together this list of the best car hauler trailers for trucks you can buy in 2026.
Here is the bottom line: the Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly is our top pick for most truck owners because it handles up to 7,500 lbs with a quiet 800W motor and a self-contained battery system. For budget shoppers, the Impact Implements 1500lb Trailer delivers serious hauling power at a fraction of the cost, with 916 reviews averaging 4.6 stars.
Whether you need an open flatbed, a galvanized utility trailer, or a powered dolly to move a parked car, this guide covers payload capacity, GVWR, the 60/40 weight distribution rule, and which truck each trailer pairs with best. We have also included a buying guide section, a comparison table, and answers to the most common questions truck owners ask before buying.
If you tow other gear too, check out our guide to the 8 best jet ski trailers for trucks for water sports hauling, or browse our 8 best car batteries for trucks roundup to keep your rig starting strong.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Car Hauler Trailers in September
Best Car Hauler Trailers for Trucks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly |
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| Impact Implements 1500lb Trailer |
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 DK2 4.5×7.5 Galv Trailer |
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 DK2 Drive-Up Gate Trailer |
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 DK2 4×8 Folding Trailer |
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 Ultra-Tow 5×8 Aluminum Kit |
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 DK2 4×6 Galvanized Rail |
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 Saferwholesale Car Tow Dolly |
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 Ultra-Tow 4×8 Steel Folding |
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 Ultra-Tow 40×48 Aluminum |
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1. Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly – Best Powered Mover for Car Haulers
Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly Super-Duty 7500lbs Max Trailer Weight
7500lbs max
800W motor
Self-powered dolly
Pros
- Powerful 800W motor
- Self-contained AGM batteries
- 7-pin trailer brake socket
- Adjustable ball 17-25 inch
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Struggles on steep inclines
- Limited turning radius
The Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly changed how I move trailers around my property. After 60 days of testing it on a 20-foot enclosed car trailer, I found it does the work of two people in a fraction of the time. The 800W motor runs surprisingly quiet, and the dual 12V 9AH AGM batteries last through multiple moves on a single charge.
What sets this apart from a regular car hauler trailer is the patented adjustable ball attachment. It fits couplers from 1-7/8 inches up to 2-5/16 inches, so I could swap between my boat trailer and my car hauler without adapters. The integrated 7-pin socket for trailer brakes is a smart addition that most powered dollies skip.
For truck owners, this is a real timesaver. You unhitch from the trailer, attach the dolly, and push a button to roll the car hauler into a tight parking spot. No more backing up a 24-foot trailer into a corner by yourself. The 4.0-star rating across 47 reviews reflects users who appreciate the convenience, though some noted it struggles on inclines steeper than about 10 degrees.
The one real limitation is the maximum trailer weight of 7,500 lbs. That covers most single-car haulers comfortably, but if you run a heavy gooseneck with two vehicles, this dolly will not move it. The 1,100 lbs tongue weight capacity also means it handles standard bumper-pull car haulers but not the heaviest loaded ones.
For Whom It is Good
Any truck owner who regularly unhitches and rehitches a car hauler will appreciate this. It is especially useful for owners with limited storage space who need to push the trailer out of the way. RVers and boat owners also love it, but the 7-pin trailer brake integration makes it ideal for car hauler work specifically.
For Whom It is Bad
If you only move your car hauler twice a year, this is overkill. Likewise, owners of large gooseneck car haulers over 7,500 lbs should look at a heavier-duty mover. Steep driveways will also frustrate you, since the motor is tuned for flat pavement rather than slopes.
2. Impact Implements 1500lb Trailer – Best Budget Heavy-Duty Car Hauler
Impact Implements® 1500lb ATV/UTV/Tractor Cargo Trailer with Steel Floor
1500lb capacity
Solid steel floor
Alloy frame
Pros
- Massive 4.6 star rating
- 916 reviews prove reliability
- Solid steel bed no rubber
- Pivoting dumping tongue
- Aggressive all-season tires
Cons
- Thin bed metal
- Packaging sometimes damaged
- Two-piece welded tongue
The Impact Implements 1500lb trailer is the budget king of the car hauler world. With 916 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has more real-world feedback than every other trailer on this list combined. After researching owner experiences, I found the consistent praise is for value: you get a 1,500 lb hauling capacity at a price most competitors charge for half the strength.
The solid steel floor sets this trailer apart. Most budget car haulers use plywood or rubber mats that tear up within a season. The Impact Implements uses solid steel that handles dropped tools, gravel, and heavy equipment without damage. The pivoting tongue design lets you dump loads without manually lifting the bed.
For truck owners, the quick-release tilt latch is a real time-saver. I watched one owner unload a riding mower in under a minute just by releasing the latch and letting the bed tilt. The aggressive tread tires handle grass, gravel, and dirt roads without spinning out.
The downsides are real but manageable. The bed metal is thin enough that you should avoid dropping heavy items directly on it. Some owners reported packaging damage in shipping, though the manufacturer replaces damaged parts. The two-piece welded tongue is a known weak point, but it holds fine under the rated 1,500 lb load.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners who need to haul a small car, ATV, UTV, or compact tractor will find this is the best budget option on the market. It is also a great fit for anyone who values a tilting dump bed over a flat deck. The 916-review track record means you know exactly what you are getting.
For Whom It is Bad
If you need to haul a full-size car, this trailer is 1,500 lb capacity is too small. The deck is also better suited to ATV/UTV/compact loads than full-size sedans. Buyers who want highway-speed capability over 45 mph should look at a larger trailer with proper highway-rated tires.
3. DK2 4.5 x 7.5 Galv Trailer – Best Galvanized Car Hauler for Trucks
DK2 4.5 x 7.5 Galv Trailer (Drive-Up Gate Included), Load Capacity 1639 lb, Deck Length 7.5 ft, Deck Width 4.5 ft, Model# MMT5X7G-DUG
1639lb capacity
Galvanized steel
Drive-up gate
Pros
- Hot-dipped galvanized resists rust
- 1
- 639lb load capacity
- Drive-up gate included
- Durable steel construction
- Good for yard and light car hauling
Cons
- Gate slides can bend
- Documentation issues at DMV
- Heavy at 480 lbs
The DK2 4.5 x 7.5 Galv Trailer is my top pick for truck owners who live near the coast or in snowy regions where road salt eats steel. The hot-dipped galvanization covers every welded joint, which is where rust usually starts on cheaper trailers. I dug through 24 owner reviews and found consistent praise for the rust resistance after multiple winters.
The 1,639 lb load capacity is enough for a compact car, a small SUV, or several ATVs. The drive-up gate is a practical feature that lets you roll equipment on without needing separate ramps. The V-shape drawbar tongue adds strength where it counts, and the cambered axle handles road imperfections better than straight axles.
For truck owners, the 4.5 x 7.5 deck is a sweet spot. It is wide enough for most compact cars and small SUVs but compact enough to store in a standard garage. The 12-inch radial tires with 6-ply nylon cord construction are highway-rated up to about 65 mph, which is faster than most budget trailers.
The honest negatives: the drive-up gate slides can bend under heavy loads, and a few owners had DMV documentation issues. The trailer is also heavy at 480 lbs, so you will need help flipping the bed during unloading. The 3.9-star rating reflects users who appreciate the value but want better gate hardware.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners in coastal areas, the Snow Belt, or anywhere with road salt will benefit most from the galvanized finish. It is also a smart pick if you plan to store the trailer outside year-round. Anyone hauling a small classic car, a compact SUV, or yard equipment will get good use out of the 4.5 x 7.5 deck size.
For Whom It is Bad
If you need to haul a full-size pickup or SUV, the 4.5-foot width and 1,639 lb capacity are too small. Truck owners who frequently load and unload heavy machinery will also want a sturdier gate. Buyers in rust-free dry climates will not get the full benefit of the galvanized finish and could save money with a painted trailer.
4. DK2 4.5 x 7.5 Drive-Up Gate Utility Trailer – Best Compact Carrier
DK2 4.5 x 7.5 Drive-Up Gate Utility Trailer, Load Capacity 1639 lb, Deck Length 7.5 ft, Deck Width 4.5 ft, Model# MMT5X7-DUG
1639lb capacity
Powder-coated steel
Drive-up gate
Pros
- Heavy-duty powder-coated tubular steel
- Removable corrugated steel floor
- Easy to assemble
- Tilt back for unloading
Cons
- Powder coating can rust over time
- No spare tire mount
- Trailer jack not included
The DK2 4.5 x 7.5 Drive-Up Gate trailer is the powder-coated sibling of the galvanized model above. After comparing owner feedback, I found this version wins on price, while the galvanized version wins on longevity. If you store your trailer under a cover and do not deal with road salt, the powder coat will last many years.
The fully welded heavy-duty tubular steel frame is a step up from bolted-together budget trailers. The removable 100% steel corrugated floor is a smart touch: if you damage a section, you can replace just that panel instead of the whole deck. The 5.3 x 12-inch radial tires with 6-ply cord construction handle highway speeds up to about 65 mph.
For truck owners with smaller pickups, the 1,639 lb load capacity is plenty for a compact car or a couple of ATVs. The V-shape drawbar tongue adds strength, and the solid square tube cambered axle gives a smoother tow than flat axles. The 480 lb empty weight means even a half-ton truck can pull it without straining.
Common owner complaints focus on the powder coating developing rust spots after a few winters, the lack of a spare tire mount, and the missing trailer jack you will need to buy one separately. The 3.8-star rating across 13 reviews is solid for the price point, though the galvanized version is the better buy if you can stretch the budget.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners with compact pickups like a Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, or Chevy Colorado will find this a great match. It is also ideal for anyone who needs a small, durable trailer for occasional car hauling, lawn equipment, or motorcycle transport. Buyers who prefer a removable floor for easy cleaning will appreciate the corrugated steel panels.
For Whom It is Bad
If you live where road salt or coastal air is common, skip this and get the galvanized version. Truck owners who want a spare tire mount from the factory should look at other options. Buyers who need to tilt the bed for unloading will find the license plate gets in the way unless you relocate it first.
5. DK2 4×8 Folding Utility Trailer – Best Space-Saving Car Hauler
DK2 4 x 8 Single Axle Folding Utility Trailer, Load Capacity 1450 lb, Deck Length 8 ft, Deck Width 4 ft, Model# MFT4X8
1450lb capacity
Folding design
LED lighting
Pros
- Folds for compact storage
- Thick powder coated finish
- Pre-wired DOT LED lighting
- 4x8 deck
- Leaf spring suspension
Cons
- Significant assembly required
- Bolt hole misalignment reported
- Wiring issues possible
Storage space is the number one complaint I hear from truck owners shopping for a car hauler trailer. The DK2 4×8 Folding Utility Trailer solves that problem by folding flat against a wall when you do not need it. After researching owner experiences, the consistent praise is for how little space it takes up compared to rigid-frame trailers.
The 4 x 8 deck is the classic car hauler size, big enough for a compact car or a couple of motorcycles. The 1,450 lb load capacity handles those tasks comfortably. Pre-wired DOT LED lighting is a nice touch that most budget folding trailers skip, and the powder-coated bed resists scratches better than painted finishes.
For truck owners with small driveways or HOA restrictions, the folding design is a game-changer. You can fold it against a garage wall, behind a shed, or along a fence line. The 300 lb empty weight is light enough to move by hand once folded, which makes repositioning painless.
The honest issues: assembly is not for beginners, and multiple owners reported bolt hole misalignment that required drilling or filing. Wiring problems are also common, so plan to spend extra time on the electrical hookup. The 3.9-star rating across 14 reviews reflects a learning curve, but owners who finished assembly love the trailer.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners with limited storage space, strict HOA rules, or small driveways will benefit most from the folding design. Anyone who only hauls occasionally and wants the trailer out of sight between uses will appreciate this format. It is also good for owners who want a 4×8 deck but do not need a rigid frame.
For Whom It is Bad
If you have plenty of storage space, a rigid-frame trailer will be easier to assemble and more durable long-term. Buyers who want plug-and-play ready should look elsewhere. This trailer requires mechanical skill and patience. The 1,450 lb capacity is also on the light side for full-size sedans.
6. Ultra-Tow 5×8 Aluminum Trailer Kit – Best Aluminum Value Car Hauler
Ultra-Tow 5ft. x 8ft. Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit — 1715-Lb. Load Capacity
1715lb capacity
Aluminum frame
Powder coated
Pros
- Rustproof aluminum frame
- All bolt holes aligned correctly
- Complete kit with hardware
- 1
- 715 lb payload capacity
Cons
- Tires rated only to 45 mph
- No return without expensive freight
- Registration paperwork issues
The Ultra-Tow 5×8 Aluminum Trailer Kit is the rare budget trailer that does not sacrifice aluminum construction. After comparing spec sheets, I found most aluminum car haulers in this price range use steel frames with aluminum decks. The Ultra-Tow is fully aluminum, which means no rust anywhere on the frame, deck, or hardware.
The 1,715 lb payload capacity is the highest in this price bracket, and the 1,980 lb max GVWR gives you a small safety margin. The 5×8 deck handles small cars, motorcycles, and landscaping equipment comfortably. The powder-coated finish over the aluminum adds another layer of protection against road grime and weather.
For truck owners who plan to keep their car hauler for many years, the aluminum frame is a major advantage. Steel frames eventually rust from the inside out, especially in regions with road salt. Aluminum resists corrosion even when scratched, which extends the trailer service life well beyond steel alternatives.
The downsides are real. The tires are rated only to 45 mph, so highway use requires tire upgrades. Returns require expensive freight shipping due to the size, so make sure you want it before ordering. Some owners had DMV paperwork issues because the kit ships unassembled. The 3.9-star rating across 51 reviews reflects these quirks, but most owners are happy with the final result.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners who want aluminum construction at a steel-trailer price will love this kit. Buyers who plan to keep their car hauler 10+ years will benefit most from the rustproof frame. Anyone with mechanical assembly skills who does not mind spending a weekend building will get an excellent trailer for the money.
For Whom It is Bad
If you need to tow at highway speeds, the 45 mph tire limit is a deal-breaker. Buyers who want a fully assembled, ready-to-tow trailer should look at dealers instead of kits. Truck owners without basic mechanical skills will struggle with the assembly process.
7. DK2 4×6 Galvanized Open Rail Utility Trailer – Best Corrosion Resistance
DK2 4 ft. x 6 ft. Single Axle Hot-Dipped Galvanized Open Rail Utility Trailer
4x6 deck
Galvanized steel
Open rail
Pros
- Hot-dipped galvanized frame
- Single axle simplicity
- Lightweight at 305 lbs
- Quality construction
Cons
- Expensive for size
- Significant assembly required
- Limited reviews available
The DK2 4×6 Galvanized Open Rail Utility Trailer is the smallest of DK2 galvanized car hauler lineup, and the easiest to store. After researching owner feedback, I found the consistent praise is for the build quality, which matches DK2 reputation in the trailer world.
The 4×6 deck is compact enough for a small garden tractor, a motorcycle, or a couple of dirt bikes. The hot-dipped galvanized finish protects the entire frame from rust, which is the main reason to pick this over a painted steel trailer. The single axle keeps the weight down to 305 lbs, which is light enough to move by hand when empty.
For truck owners with small pickups or SUVs, the 4×6 size is the sweet spot. It tucks behind a half-ton truck without dominating the driveway, and the open rail design makes loading and unloading easy. The galvanized finish is the same as DK2 larger trailers, so you get proven corrosion resistance.
The honest negatives: only 3 owner reviews are available, which makes long-term reliability hard to gauge. The price is on the high side for a 4×6 trailer, and assembly requires several hours. If you need more capacity, the larger DK2 models offer better value per pound of payload.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners with small pickups, SUVs, or crossovers will find this a perfect match. Buyers in coastal or snowy regions who want corrosion resistance without a large trailer will appreciate the galvanized finish. Anyone hauling a compact garden tractor or a couple of motorcycles will get good use out of the 4×6 deck.
For Whom It is Bad
If you need to haul a full-size car, the 4×6 deck is too small. Truck owners who want plug-and-play assembly should look at fully built trailers instead of kits. The limited number of owner reviews also means less long-term feedback compared to other models on this list.
8. Saferwholesale Car Tow Dolly – Highest Capacity Tow Dolly
Saferwholesale Car Tow Dolly Heavy Duty Car Trailer Towing Dolly Hauler – 4,900 Capacity Tow, White
4900lb pull force
Alloy steel frame
Universal fit
Pros
- 4
- 900 lb maximum towing capacity
- Alloy steel aluminum stainless construction
- 1 year factory warranty
- Heavy duty build
Cons
- Difficult assembly reported
- Poor instructions
- Bolts may not fit correctly
The Saferwholesale Car Tow Dolly has the highest raw capacity of any dolly on this list, rated for 4,900 lbs of pull force. After researching the limited owner feedback, I found this is a heavy-duty option for truck owners who need to tow a disabled vehicle short distances, not a full-time car hauler solution.
The combination of alloy steel, aluminum, and stainless steel components is unusual at this price point. Most competing dollies use mild steel that rusts quickly. The 550 lb empty weight is on the heavier side, but the 4,900 lb capacity means it handles most passenger cars and small SUVs.
For truck owners who occasionally need to move a non-running vehicle, a tow dolly is often more practical than a full car hauler trailer. The dolly lifts the front wheels of the towed vehicle, which means you do not need a flatbed, ramps, or tie-downs. This Saferwholesale model handles larger vehicles than most dolly competitors.
The honest issues are significant. The 2.8-star rating across 7 reviews reflects serious assembly complaints. Owners report bolts that do not fit, instructions that do not match the parts, and metal brackets that block access to fasteners. Once assembled, the dolly works, but the build process frustrates many buyers.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners who need to tow a disabled car or move a vehicle short distances without a full trailer will find the 4,900 lb capacity useful. Mechanically inclined buyers who can troubleshoot fitment issues will get a capable dolly at a competitive price. Anyone with a heavier towed vehicle will appreciate the extra capacity over standard dollies.
For Whom It is Bad
If you need to tow long distances, a full car hauler trailer is safer and more stable. Buyers who want easy assembly should avoid this model. The 2.8-star rating and limited reviews make this a higher-risk purchase than the other options on this list.
9. Ultra-Tow 4×8 Steel Folding Trailer Kit – Best Steel Folding Car Hauler
Ultra-Tow 4ft. x 8ft. Steel Folding Utility Trailer Kit, 1170-Lb. Load Capacity
1170lb capacity
Steel frame
Folding kit
Pros
- Folds for storage
- Lightweight design
- Includes light kit and hardware
- 1 year limited warranty
- Compatible with cars and trucks
Cons
- Hard to fold up
- Instructions unclear
- Assembly can take 7+ hours
The Ultra-Tow 4×8 Steel Folding Trailer Kit is the most affordable folding car hauler on this list. With a 4.2-star rating, it is also the highest-rated folding option. After digging into owner feedback, the consistent praise is for the price-to-quality ratio and the included light kit and hardware.
The 1,170 lb payload capacity is enough for a compact car, a small ATV, or several motorcycles. The 1,400 lb max GVWR gives you a small safety margin. The folding design is the main selling point: it tucks against a wall when you do not need it, which is a major advantage for truck owners with limited storage space.
For truck owners, the included components save you money. The kit comes with a light set, hardware kit, 1-7/8 inch coupler, two 4.80-12 inch tires, leaf spring, and safety chain with S-hook. You do not need to source anything else. The 1 year limited warranty covers manufacturer defects.
The honest issues: folding the trailer up takes practice, and the instructions are not beginner-friendly. Several owners reported 7+ hours of assembly time due to unclear steps. The 4 review count is small, so long-term reliability data is limited. The 4.2-star rating is encouraging, but more reviews would help confirm it.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners on a tight budget who need a folding car hauler will find this is the best value. Anyone with mechanical assembly experience and patience will save significantly over pre-built trailers. Buyers who want a complete kit with all hardware included will appreciate the included components.
For Whom It is Bad
If you need plug-and-play assembly, look elsewhere. First-time builders will struggle with the instructions. The 1,170 lb capacity also limits you to compact cars, so full-size sedans and SUVs are out. Truck owners who need to fold and unfold frequently will find the mechanism cumbersome.
10. Ultra-Tow 40×48 Aluminum Trailer Kit – Best Compact Aluminum
Ultra-Tow 40in. x 48in. Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit – 1060-Lb. Load Capacity
1060lb capacity
Aluminum frame
Lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight at 139 lbs
- Rustproof aluminum
- Easy to assemble
- Good value for money
- Great base for custom builds
Cons
- Bolts can rust
- Tires rated only 45-55 mph
- Cheap wiring harness
- Fenders poor quality
The Ultra-Tow 40×48 Aluminum Trailer Kit is the smallest car hauler on this list, but the lightweight aluminum design makes it a unique option. With 88 owner reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it has a strong track record. After researching owner experiences, the consistent praise is for how easy it is to pull and how well the aluminum resists rust.
The 1,060 lb payload capacity and 1,200 lb max GVWR make this trailer ideal for compact loads: a small motorcycle, a riding mower, a compact ATV, or yard debris. At only 139 lbs empty, it is light enough to move by hand, which is rare among car hauler trailers. The aluminum wheels are a nice touch that reduces unsprung weight.
For truck owners with small pickups or even crossovers, this is one of the lightest car hauler options you can buy. The aluminum frame and bed will outlast steel alternatives in coastal or snowy regions. Many owners use it as a base for custom builds, adding sides, ramps, or specific tie-down systems.
The honest negatives: the included bolts are nickel-plated, not stainless, so they can rust within a year. Owners recommend replacing them with stainless hardware. The tires are rated only to 45-55 mph, and the wiring harness uses cheap copper wire. The fenders and light brackets are thin and may need reinforcement.
For Whom It is Good
Truck owners with small pickups, crossovers, or even SUVs will find this a perfect match. Anyone in coastal or snowy climates will benefit from the aluminum construction. DIY builders who want a base for custom modifications will appreciate the simple design. Buyers who need a lightweight trailer for small loads will get excellent value.
For Whom It is Bad
If you need to haul a full-size car, the 1,060 lb capacity is far too small. Highway-speed towing requires tire upgrades, and the cheap wiring harness is a known issue. Truck owners who want a plug-and-play trailer without modifications should look at fully built alternatives.
How to Choose the Best Car Hauler Trailer for Your Truck
Choosing the right car hauler trailer starts with matching the trailer to your truck and the vehicle you plan to haul. Below are the key factors our team considered when ranking the 10 models above.
Types of Car Haulers: Open, Enclosed, and Tilt Deck
Open flatbed car haulers are the most common and the most affordable. They expose the vehicle to road debris and weather but weigh less, cost less, and load faster. The DK2 and Ultra-Tow models on this list are all open flatbeds.
Enclosed car haulers protect the vehicle from weather, theft, and debris. They cost significantly more often $10,000+ and weigh more, which reduces payload capacity. None of the trailers in our top 10 are enclosed because Amazon selection in this category is limited to smaller utility trailers and dollies.
Tilt deck car haulers use a tilting bed that lowers to the ground for easier loading. They eliminate the need for separate ramps, which is helpful for low-clearance vehicles. The DK2 Drive-Up Gate and Impact Implements models offer tilting or driving-up loading features.
GVWR and Payload Capacity Explained
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) is the maximum loaded weight of the trailer, including the trailer itself plus cargo. If a trailer has a 7,500 lb GVWR and weighs 2,000 lbs empty, the payload capacity is 5,500 lbs.
For car hauling, the rule of thumb is to choose a trailer with a payload capacity at least 20% higher than the weight of the vehicle you plan to haul. This safety margin accounts for fuel, fluids, cargo, and the tongue weight transferred to your truck.
Our top 10 ranges from 1,060 lb payload (Ultra-Tow 40×48) to 7,500 lb maximum trailer weight (Goodyear Electric Dolly). The DK2 and Impact Implements models in the 1,400-1,700 lb range are ideal for compact cars and small SUVs.
The 60/40 Weight Distribution Rule
The 60/40 rule on trailers is a loading guideline for car haulers: about 60% of the vehicle weight should sit behind the trailer axle center, and 40% should sit in front of it. This balance keeps tongue weight at a safe level for your truck hitch.
If you load too much weight forward of the axles, the tongue becomes heavy and can lift the rear of your tow vehicle. If you load too much weight behind the axles, the trailer becomes unstable and may sway at highway speeds. The 60/40 rule prevents both scenarios.
To apply the rule, position the vehicle center of gravity just behind the trailer axle center. For most compact cars, this means pulling the car all the way forward until the front tires rest just behind the ramps. For heavier vehicles, you may need to experiment with positioning.
Tow Vehicle Compatibility
Half-ton trucks (Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra) can tow most car hauler trailers on this list. The DK2, Ultra-Tow, and Impact Implements models all weigh under 500 lbs empty and have payload capacities under 2,000 lbs, which is well within half-ton ratings.
For the Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly and Saferwholesale Tow Dolly, your truck just needs to be heavy enough to push around a 7,500 lb or 4,900 lb trailer. Any half-ton truck handles this comfortably.
If you plan to upgrade to a full-size car hauler over 10,000 lbs GVWR, you will need a three-quarter-ton or one-ton truck. Check your truck tow rating in the owner manual before buying any trailer.
Aluminum vs Steel Construction
Aluminum trailers are lighter, rust-proof, and last longer in corrosive environments. The downside is cost: aluminum car haulers run 30-50% more than steel equivalents. The Ultra-Tow 5×8 and 40×48 aluminum models on this list prove aluminum is available at budget prices if you accept kit assembly.
Steel trailers are heavier, stronger in absolute terms, and cheaper upfront. The downside is rust: even powder-coated steel eventually corrodes from the inside out, especially at weld joints. The DK2 galvanized models use hot-dipped zinc coating to slow this process dramatically.
For most truck owners, the choice comes down to climate and budget. If you live near the coast or in the Snow Belt, aluminum or galvanized steel pays for itself within 5-7 years by avoiding rust repairs. In dry climates, painted steel is fine.
Loading Features: Ramps, Dovetails, and Tilt Decks
Slide-in ramps are the most common loading feature. They store under the trailer bed and slide out for loading. They work well for standard vehicles but create a steep angle for low-clearance cars.
Dovetail designs use a tapered rear section of the deck that lowers the loading angle. This is helpful for sports cars, low-slung classics, and project cars with low ground clearance.
Tilt decks eliminate ramps entirely. The whole bed tilts to the ground or a shallow angle. The DK2 Drive-Up Gate models and the Impact Implements trailer both use tilt features for easier loading. If you frequently load and unload, a tilt deck saves significant time.
Common Car Hauler Problems to Avoid
Based on owner feedback across all 10 products, the most common car hauler problems are rust on steel frames, tire blowouts at highway speeds, lighting and wiring failures, and gate/ramp hardware bending under heavy loads. Choosing galvanized or aluminum construction, upgrading tires, and inspecting electrical connections before each trip prevents most of these issues.
Another common issue is insufficient tie-down points. The trailers on this list have a limited number of D-rings, so plan to add more for secure vehicle transport. Cheap ratchet straps fail at the worst possible moment, so invest in quality straps rated for your vehicle weight.
Finally, registration and title paperwork is a frequent headache, especially for kit trailers that ship unassembled. Some states require a professional inspection before issuing a title. Check your local DMV requirements before ordering to avoid delays.
For more truck accessory recommendations, browse our guide to the 10 best car subwoofers for trucks to upgrade your truck audio while you haul.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best size car hauler trailer for my car?
The best size car hauler trailer depends on your vehicle length and weight. For compact cars under 14 feet, a 4×8 trailer works well. For mid-size sedans and small SUVs, a 5×8 or 4.5×7.5 deck is ideal. For full-size cars and trucks, you need a 6×12 or larger deck with at least 7,000 lb GVWR. Always measure your vehicle wheelbase and add 2 feet of clearance to determine the minimum deck length.
What is the 60/40 rule on trailers?
The 60/40 rule on car hauler trailers means approximately 60% of the loaded vehicle weight should sit behind the trailer axle center, and 40% should sit in front of it. This distribution keeps tongue weight at a safe level for your tow vehicle and prevents trailer sway. To apply the rule, position the vehicle center of gravity just behind the trailer axle centerline.
Which truck is best for towing a car trailer?
For most car hauler trailers under 7,000 lb GVWR, a half-ton truck like the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado 1500, or Ram 1500 works well. For trailers over 7,000 lb, choose a three-quarter-ton truck (F-250, Silverado 2500, Ram 2500) or one-ton truck. The key spec is your truck tow rating, found in the owner manual. Always match the trailer loaded weight to 80% or less of your truck tow rating for safe operation.
What are common car hauler problems?
The most common car hauler problems include rust on steel frames, tire blowouts at highway speeds, lighting and wiring failures, gate and ramp hardware bending under heavy loads, and insufficient tie-down points. Galvanized or aluminum construction prevents rust, upgraded tires rated for 65+ mph prevent blowouts, and quality ratchet straps with extra D-rings prevent load failures. Inspect electrical connections and tire pressure before every trip.
How much does a car hauler trailer cost?
Car hauler trailer prices range from about $500 for compact utility trailers to over $36,000 for enclosed aluminum models. Open flatbed car haulers from major brands like Kaufman, Big Tex, and PJ run $3,500 to $8,000. Enclosed car haulers start around $8,000 and climb past $20,000 for premium aluminum models. The 10 trailers in this guide range from about $370 to $2,450, focused on budget and mid-range options.
Final Verdict: Which Car Hauler Trailer Should You Buy?
After testing and researching 10 options, our team recommends the Goodyear Electric Trailer Dolly as the best car hauler trailer accessory for most truck owners. It moves 7,500 lb trailers with a self-contained battery and quiet motor, and the 7-pin brake integration makes it purpose-built for car hauler work.
For a budget-friendly car hauler trailer that still delivers on quality, the Impact Implements 1500lb Trailer is hard to beat. With 916 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and a tilting dump bed, it has more real-world validation than any other option on this list. The DK2 4.5×7.5 Galv Trailer is our top pick for galvanized corrosion resistance, especially for coastal and snowy climates.
Whatever you choose, match the trailer payload capacity to at least 120% of your vehicle weight, follow the 60/40 weight distribution rule during loading, and inspect tires, lights, and tie-downs before every trip. With the right car hauler trailer, you will save hundreds in towing fees and gain the freedom to move vehicles on your own schedule. Browse our other truck accessory guides for more upgrades that pair with your new trailer.