The typical width of a car hauler trailer is around 8 feet, or 96 inches. This standard size facilitates the transport of most vehicles without special permits.
Choosing the right car hauler trailer is essential for safe and efficient vehicle transport. It’s crucial to consider the dimensions to ensure your cargo matches the hauler’s capacity.
With the average passenger vehicle width being approximately 6 to 7 feet, the 8-foot width of a car hauler allows for adequate space and secure loading.
Whether you’re a commercial transporter or an individual needing to move a vehicle, understanding the dimensions of your trailer can prevent legal issues and ensure a smooth journey.
As the transportation industry grows, the demand for reliable and properly sized trailers continues to rise. This brief guide aims to help you grasp the essentials when selecting a car hauler trailer for your transportation needs.
Car Hauler Trailer Basics
Exploring the road with a car hauler trailer is exciting! Even more, when you understand the essentials. A car hauler trailer needs to match your vehicle in size and capacity.
This ensures a safe and efficient transport. Let’s dive into what a car hauler trailer is and its different uses and types.
Defining A Car Hauler Trailer
A car hauler trailer is a specialized platform designed to transport vehicles. It differs from other trailers because it is built to secure cars for short or long hauls.
They come in various sizes but typically extend between 14 and 53 feet in width. The width matters for vehicle accommodation and road regulations.
Common Uses And Types
These trailers are not just for moving cars. They serve multiple purposes:
- Professional transport services use these to deliver cars nationwide.
- Racing enthusiasts transport their track cars to events.
- General towing needs, whether for a move or a road trip.
The types vary as well:
- Open trailers are common and budget-friendly.
- Enclosed trailers provide extra security and protection.
- Single-vehicle trailers are compact and easy to maneuver.
- Multi-vehicle haulers are large and efficient for several cars at once.
Whether you have a single classic car or a fleet, the correct trailer makes all the difference.
Importance Of Trailer Sizing
Choosing the right size for a car hauler trailer is critical. The trailer must fit the vehicle it’s meant to carry. It must also follow legal guidelines. This prevents fines and enhances safety on the road. Below we delve into why sizing matters.
Vehicle Compatibility
The width of a car hauler trailer plays a key role in vehicle compatibility. A mismatch can lead to damage or loss. Here are the aspects to consider:
- Car Size: The trailer needs to support the car’s width and weight.
- Load Distribution: Proper fitting ensures even weight distribution.
- Accessibility: Adequate space is necessary for safe loading and unloading.
Legal Restrictions And Standards
There are specific legal limits to a trailer’s dimensions. They vary by region. Trailers that exceed these limits could face penalties. Important points include:
- Maximum Width: Most regions cap trailer width at 8.5 feet.
- Permits: Wider loads often require special permits.
- Safety Measures: Over-sized trailers need extra safety flags or lights.
Standard Dimensions
Car hauler trailers help in transporting vehicles safely. Their size matters for smooth transit. Let’s explore the typical dimensions of a car hauler trailer.
Average Widths And Lengths
Car haulers vary in size. The width plays a key role in stability and capacity. Most measure about 8.5 feet wide.
This standard supports easy vehicle loading and complies with road regulations. Lengths differ based on needs. Common lengths range from 16 to 53 feet. Detailed sizes include:
- Single-car haulers: Typically 16 to 20 feet long
- Multi-car haulers: Can extend up to 53 feet for more capacity
| Type | Width (feet) | Length (feet) |
| Single-car | 8.5 | 16-20 |
| Multi-car | 8.5 | Up to 53 |
Height Considerations
Height is crucial for clearances. Standard car hauler trailers stand 7 to 8 feet tall. This height ensures vehicles fit under bridges and overpasses. Always check height limits before selecting a hauler. Factors to consider include:
- Destination path: Verify overpass heights on the route.
- Load type: Taller loads may need special trailers.
- Legal limits: Abide by local and national height restrictions.
Factors Affecting Size
Thinking about towing multiple cars? It’s essential to know how wide a car hauler trailer can be. Various factors can determine the size of the trailer you’ll need. Let’s dive into what influences the width of a car hauler trailer.
Customization Options
Car hauler trailers come in a range of sizes to meet different needs. Customization plays a big role in size. Buyers can opt for features that impact width. These might include:
- Additional Ramps: For easier loading of wider vehicles.
- Extended Decks: To accommodate a larger number of vehicles.
- Tool Boxes or Storage Compartments: Integrated into the trailer.
Custom options mean you can tailor the trailer’s width for specific uses.
Payload Capacities
How much a trailer can carry also defines its size. Higher payload capacities generally require wider trailers. Some key points include:
| Payload Capacity | Typical Width |
| Up to 5,000 lbs | 7 to 8 feet |
| 5,000 to 10,000 lbs | 8 to 8.5 feet |
| Over 10,000 lbs | 8.5 feet or wider |
Keep in mind, regulations can restrict trailer width, usually to a maximum of 8.5 feet.
Measuring Your Hauler Trailer
Before purchasing or using a car hauler trailer, knowing the exact dimensions of your vehicle is crucial. A misfit can lead to safety hazards and legal complications. Ensure your car will fit comfortably on the trailer by conducting precise measurements.
Step-by-step Guide
Follow these simple steps to measure your vehicle correctly:
- Prepare your vehicle by ensuring it’s on level ground.
- Measure the length from the front bumper to the rear bumper.
- Include any additional parts, like spoilers or tow hitches.
- Gauge the width at the widest point, such as the mirrors.
- Record the height from the ground to the tallest point of the car.
- Check for any protrusions that may require extra space.
Tips For Accurate Measurements
For precision, consider the following tips:
- Use a tape measure or digital laser for better accuracy.
- Assess vehicle attachments that might affect dimensions.
- Enlist a helper to ensure the tape measure is level and taught.
- Record measurements more than once to check for consistency.
- Compare your measurements with the car hauler trailer’s dimensions.
- Consider extra space for ease of loading and unloading.
FAQs About How Wide Is A Car Hauler Trailer
How Wide Is A 16 Foot Car Trailer?
A typical 16-foot car trailer is about 76 to 83 inches wide between the wheel wells. The overall width, including fenders, may extend up to 102 inches.
How Wide Is A 18ft Car Hauler?
An 18ft car hauler typically measures about 8 feet in width, adhering to standard trailer size regulations for safe road travel.
How Wide Is A Car Trailer Between Fenders?
The width between fenders on a car trailer typically ranges from 68 to 82 inches, depending on the design and model.
Will A Car Fit In An 8 Foot Wide Trailer?
Most cars will not fit in an 8-foot-wide trailer due to their average width. Standard cars typically require a trailer at least 8. 5 feet wide for proper accommodation and safe transport.
Conclusion
Selecting the right size for your car hauler trailer is critical for both safety and efficiency. With standard widths ranging around 8. 5 feet, accommodate most vehicles comfortably. Remember, precise measurements are key when matching your hauler to your transport needs.
Safe travels and successful hauling begin with informed choices!
Resources:
1. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/resources/consumer-advisory-automobile-transporters
