Car Hauler / Equipment Trailers

Car haulers are designed around transporting vehicles, while equipment trailers often offer heavier frames and loading setups for machinery. Some models handle both. Compare payload, deck dimensions, ramp ratings and tie-down points for your load.

Measure the vehicle or machine, including attachments, and confirm its operating weight. Allow room for proper load placement and tie-downs. Check deck width between fenders, overall deck length and the trailer's actual payload capacity.

A tilt deck can simplify frequent loading by lowering the deck to the ground. Ramps work with a fixed deck and suit many hauling routines. Compare loading angle, ground clearance and the ratings of the deck and ramps.

Drive-over fenders are reinforced fenders designed to support a rated wheel or track load while loading wider equipment. Standard fenders aren't designed for this. Confirm the manufacturer's fender rating and available loading width.

A deckover places the deck above the wheels, creating a wider, unobstructed loading surface. It usually has a higher deck than a trailer with the bed between the wheels, so consider loading angle and equipment ground clearance.

Use payload capacity, not GVWR alone. Subtract the trailer's actual empty weight and added equipment from its GVWR, then include the vehicle, attachments and gear in your load. Check axle, tire, hitch and tow vehicle limits too.

Load on firm, level ground with the trailer coupled to the tow vehicle and any required supports in place. Follow the trailer and equipment manufacturers' loading instructions. Use properly rated tie-downs and designated anchor points, and secure attachments separately as required.

Match your truck's towing, payload and hitch ratings to the fully loaded trailer. Tongue or pin weight, passengers and truck-bed cargo all affect available capacity. The right truck depends on the specific trailer and load, rather than truck class alone.