The typical width of an enclosed car trailer ranges from 8.5 to 10 feet (102 to 120 inches), measured from the trailer’s outer walls. This width is crucial for safely transporting vehicles while adhering to legal regulations and ensuring ease of maneuvering.
Understanding Enclosed Car Trailer Width
The width of an enclosed car trailer is more than just a number; it’s a critical factor influencing its functionality, legal compliance, and overall suitability for different hauling needs. Several elements contribute to the variance in widths, and understanding these nuances is essential for anyone considering purchasing or using such a trailer.
Standard Width Dimensions
While the most common widths fall between 8.5 and 10 feet, it’s important to note that these are external dimensions. The internal width will be slightly smaller due to the thickness of the trailer walls and any interior components. Therefore, when selecting a trailer, consider the dimensions of the vehicles you intend to transport and ensure adequate clearance inside.
Factors Influencing Width
Several factors dictate the final width of an enclosed car trailer. These include:
- Axle Configuration: The type and placement of axles can significantly impact the overall width. Single-axle trailers tend to be narrower, while tandem or triple-axle trailers often require greater width for stability and load distribution.
- Wall Construction: Thicker walls provide greater structural integrity and insulation but also increase the trailer’s overall width. Different materials, such as aluminum or steel, have varying thicknesses, affecting the final dimensions.
- Fender Design: Fenders, which protect the trailer’s wheels, protrude beyond the trailer’s main body. Their design and size contribute to the trailer’s overall width.
- Door Configuration: The type and placement of the door(s) can also impact the overall width. A ramp door, for instance, may require a wider trailer to accommodate the ramp’s width when folded up.
Legal Considerations and Width Restrictions
It’s crucial to be aware of legal width restrictions imposed by federal, state, and local authorities. These regulations typically dictate the maximum permissible width for vehicles and trailers operating on public roads. Exceeding these limits can result in fines, penalties, and even the impoundment of the trailer. In the United States, the standard maximum width is 8.5 feet (102 inches) without requiring special permits in most states. Wider trailers, exceeding 8.5 feet, are often considered wide load and necessitate permits, escorts, and specific route restrictions. Before purchasing or using an enclosed car trailer, consult your local Department of Transportation (DOT) or equivalent agency to understand the applicable regulations.
Choosing the Right Width for Your Needs
Selecting the appropriate enclosed car trailer width depends heavily on your specific needs and intended usage. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Vehicle Size: The primary consideration is the size of the vehicles you plan to transport. Measure the width of your widest vehicle, including side mirrors and any other protruding elements, to ensure it fits comfortably within the trailer’s internal dimensions. Allow for adequate clearance on all sides to prevent damage during loading, unloading, and transport.
- Maneuverability: Wider trailers can be more challenging to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or urban environments. Consider your towing vehicle’s capabilities and your own driving experience when assessing the trade-off between trailer width and maneuverability.
- Storage: Where will you store the trailer when it’s not in use? A wider trailer requires more storage space, so factor this into your decision-making process.
- Budget: Wider trailers generally cost more than narrower ones due to the increased materials and construction effort involved. Establish a budget beforehand and weigh the benefits of a wider trailer against its cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the width of enclosed car trailers to further clarify this topic:
FAQ 1: What is the legal maximum width for an enclosed car trailer without requiring permits?
The standard legal maximum width in most US states is 8.5 feet (102 inches). Going beyond this width generally requires permits and may involve route restrictions.
FAQ 2: How do I measure the width of my enclosed car trailer?
Measure the trailer’s width from the outermost points of the body, including fenders, rub rails, and any other protruding elements. Ensure you are measuring the overall width, not just the internal width.
FAQ 3: What happens if my enclosed car trailer is wider than the legal limit?
Operating a trailer exceeding the legal width limit without the necessary permits can result in fines, penalties, and potential impoundment of the trailer. You may also be liable for any damage caused by the oversized load.
FAQ 4: Will I need special permits to tow a 10-foot wide enclosed car trailer?
Yes, a 10-foot wide enclosed car trailer generally requires special permits in most jurisdictions. Contact your local Department of Transportation for specific requirements.
FAQ 5: How much narrower is the internal width compared to the external width?
The internal width is typically several inches narrower than the external width, depending on the thickness of the trailer walls. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for exact internal dimensions.
FAQ 6: Does the length of the trailer affect its width requirements?
No, the length of the trailer does not directly affect its width requirements. Width restrictions primarily focus on the overall width regardless of length. However, longer trailers may be more difficult to maneuver, especially wider ones.
FAQ 7: What are the advantages of a wider enclosed car trailer?
Wider trailers offer advantages such as: easier loading and unloading of vehicles, the ability to transport wider vehicles, and increased interior space for storing tools or equipment.
FAQ 8: Are there specific width regulations for enclosed motorcycle trailers?
While motorcycle trailers are often smaller, the same width regulations apply. Even smaller trailers must adhere to the 8.5-foot maximum width unless permits are obtained.
FAQ 9: How does axle configuration affect the width of an enclosed car trailer?
Trailers with multiple axles (tandem or triple) often require a wider platform to ensure stability and proper weight distribution. The axle configuration itself doesn’t mandate a specific width, but practical considerations often lead to wider designs for multi-axle trailers.
FAQ 10: What should I consider when choosing between an 8.5-foot and a 10-foot wide enclosed trailer?
Consider the size of the vehicles you’ll be transporting, your maneuvering needs, storage space, budget, and the need for permits. If you routinely haul wide vehicles and can navigate the permit process, a 10-foot trailer may be beneficial. Otherwise, an 8.5-foot trailer is often more practical.
FAQ 11: Do enclosed car trailers with “spread axles” affect the width?
“Spread axles,” where the axles are spaced further apart, don’t directly increase the width of the trailer, but they can improve stability. However, the placement and type of fenders used on trailers with spread axles may influence the overall width measurement.
FAQ 12: Where can I find reliable information about specific state regulations on trailer widths?
Consult your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) website or contact their offices directly. These sources provide the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding legal trailer width restrictions.