Most of the time it does not matter what kind of trailer moves your car, as long as the carrier is reputable and insured. Sometimes it does. Inoperable vehicles, and vehicles with modified height or ground clearance, need specific equipment. A lowered race car usually needs an enclosed trailer with a lift gate or extra-long ramps. Here are the main types.
Flatbed trailers
The most common small trailer. Minimal strapping, easy loading, stable. Used for cars, boats, heavy equipment, race cars, and military vehicles. Usually carries one to four vehicles and is pulled by a large pickup rather than a semi. Flatbeds can fit into places larger rigs cannot.
Wedge trailers
Similar to a flatbed but angled, with a narrower body and built-in storage. Wedges are easier to maneuver and handle one to four vehicles. The angled deck makes them a good fit for vehicles with low ground clearance such as lowered trucks and SUVs.
Open car trailers
No shelter over the load area. Affordable, high capacity, and the most common way cars move long distances. The trade-off is exposure to weather and debris, and loading takes longer than you might expect. Covers and careful load placement reduce the risk.
Enclosed car trailers
Boxed in on all sides, shielding the cargo from weather and from attention. High-end sports cars, vintage cars, and vehicles bound for film sets usually travel enclosed.
Hardside
Rigid walls of metal, wood, or composite. Two varieties:
- Single deck. An enclosed box behind a pickup, carrying one or two vehicles. Think toy hauler.
- Double deck with lift gate. Looks like an ordinary freight trailer. A rear lift gate raises the vehicle like an elevator, which is required for very low cars that cannot climb a ramp.
Softside
Flexible PVC-coated curtains instead of hard walls. More room to strap and unstrap, and more room to winch an inoperable vehicle up the ramp.
Tow dollies
Small one-car units usually rented from U-Haul or Penske for DIY moves. The front wheels ride on the dolly; the rear wheels roll on the road and take the wear. Loading is entirely on you, towing speed is reduced, and the rig can sway in bad weather. Check weight and clearance limits before using one.
Quick comparison
| Flatbed | Wedge | Open | Enclosed | Tow dolly | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pros | Easy loading, stable, good for heavy or high-value vehicles | Maneuverable, good for low clearance | Cheap, high capacity | Full protection, right for valuable cars | Cheap for short moves |
| Cons | No weather protection | Tight spaces can be hard | Exposed to elements, slower loading | Higher cost | You do the loading; can sway |
| Best for | Heavy equipment, boats, high-clearance vehicles | Lowered vehicles | Most moves, any distance | Classic, luxury, sensitive vehicles | Local relocation |
What to consider
- Cost. Weigh the price against what each type offers.
- Insurance. Confirm the carrier's coverage and its limits.
- Reputation. Read reviews before you book.
Conclusion
The right trailer depends on the car and the move. For most vehicles any reputable carrier will do; for the rest, knowing the options means you can ask for the right equipment. Questions? Get in touch.