Open and Enclosed Car Trailers: A Buying Guide

If you’re in the market for a car trailer, one big decision point is whether you want an open or closed trailer. Here’s some info about navigating that choice from Victory Custom Trailers, your trailer experts in Metamora, Michigan. We serve a loyal clientele from Detroit to Flint and beyond who rely on us for the very best in car carrier trailers, also called car-carrying trailers, car haulers, or auto transport trailers.

What Is Your Hauling Vehicle?

You’ve got to know the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your tow vehicle. This number refers to the total amount of weight your vehicle can safely haul or carry. This info is often found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. If you can’t find it, consult your owner’s manual, contact your vehicle manufacturer, or ask a technician to ascertain your vehicle’s GVWR.

What Are You Hauling?

First, let’s talk weight. Any trailer will have its own GVWR limit, and the total weight of your cargo plus the weight of your trailer must stay well within your tow vehicle’s GVWR. Remember to include the weight of any passengers and additional items inside the cab of your vehicle when doing these calculations.

Exactly how precious is your vehicle that you’re transporting? If it’s a prize-winning vintage Bugati, we definitely recommend a closed trailer! If it’s your beater 4WD, maybe not so much. 

It goes without saying, but we’ll say it: The type of trailer you need and the degree of protection you require will vary depending on your vehicle, your needs and your risk tolerance. 

Open Car Trailers: Pros and Cons

The pros of an open car hauling trailer: it’s affordable, versatile, and comes in a broad range of shapes and sizes. You can choose between wood or steel diamond-patterned flooring. Wood flooring is cheaper but requires more upkeep. Steel flooring is more durable and washable, and its textured surface makes for an easier loading experience.

For an extremely easy-loading open hauler, consider a tilt trailer. These will angle down to serve as their own ramp.

The problem with open car trailers is they offer less protection against damage from weather, road debris, theft, and mischief. 

Enclosed Car Trailers

Enclosed trailers cost more, but if you are hauling something valuable, it’s worth it. These offer much greater protection against damage and theft. They are also much more discreet -- when that vintage Rolls Royce is under wraps, it won’t attract opportunists. 

Your enclosed car trailer can also double as a cargo trailer or stationary storage. They generally range in length from 16-24 feet.

Customization Options

Another bonus of a closed trailer: you can customize it for maximum convenience. Our experienced techs can install accessories like built-in cabinets, electrical outlets, deluxe flooring, upgraded interior and exterior lighting, siding, winches, and more. 

We’d be happy to talk through your options and give you an idea of the costs at Victory Custom Trailers. We’re in Metamora, Michigan, where we serve folks from Detroit to Flint and beyond.