Find the Perfect Enclosed Trailer Size
Choosing the right enclosed trailer is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Whether you're hauling motorcycles, UTVs, lawn equipment, race cars, contractor tools, or valuable cargo, selecting the correct trailer size will save you money, improve towing performance, and give you room to grow.
At Southern Trailer Depot, we've helped customers find the perfect trailer since 2007. This guide explains every common enclosed trailer size so you can confidently choose the trailer that fits your needs today—and tomorrow.
Buying an enclosed cargo trailer is an investment. While appearance and price are important, selecting the correct trailer size has the biggest impact on how satisfied you'll be years from now.
One of the most common mistakes first-time trailer buyers make is purchasing a trailer that's too small. While it may save money initially, many customers quickly discover they need additional space for new equipment, tools, accessories, or future projects.
A slightly larger trailer often provides greater flexibility, better resale value, and eliminates the need to upgrade later.
Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, landscaper, motorsports enthusiast, or business owner, this guide will help you understand:
- Common enclosed trailer sizes
- Interior dimensions
- Payload considerations
- Single axle vs. tandem axle
- Interior height options
- Which trailer works best for different applications
- Tips for choosing the perfect trailer
Our goal is simple: help you purchase the right trailer the first time.
Why Trailer Size Matters
Many buyers focus only on price, but trailer size affects much more than your initial investment.
The size of your trailer influences:
- What you can haul
- Payload capacity
- Towing experience
- Fuel economy
- Storage space
- Maneuverability
- Future flexibility
- Resale value
For example, a contractor may initially think a 6x12 trailer will meet their needs. After adding shelving, ladders, compressors, generators, and additional tools, they often wish they had purchased a 7x16 instead.
The same applies to motorcycle owners, racers, landscapers, and homeowners.
Buying the right size today prevents expensive upgrades tomorrow.
Quick Trailer Size Comparison
| Trailer Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 4x6 | Small utility loads |
| 5x8 | One motorcycle |
| 5x10 | Small equipment |
| 6x10 | Lawn care |
| 6x12 | Multiple motorcycles |
| 7x12 | Side-by-side |
| 7x14 | Lawn & contractor |
| 7x16 | Contractors & UTVs |
| 7x18 | Multiple UTVs |
| 7x20 | Cars & commercial |
| 8.5x16 | Small race trailer |
| 8.5x20 | Race cars |
| 8.5x24 | Race teams |
| 8.5x28 | Commercial |
| 8.5x32 | Large race trailer |
| 8.5x36 | Maximum hauling capacity |
What Will You Be Hauling?
Before choosing a trailer, make a list of everything you expect to haul—not just today, but over the next several years.
Some common uses include:
Motorcycles
Most riders eventually purchase additional gear, toolboxes, spare tires, fuel cans, and camping equipment.
Buying slightly larger provides more flexibility.
Side-by-Sides
UTVs continue getting larger every year.
- Always measure:
- Overall length
- Overall width
- Overall height
- Including accessories.
Lawn Equipment
Many landscaping businesses quickly outgrow their first trailer.
Consider future additions such as:
- Stand-on mower
- Zero-turn mower
- Push mowers
- Blowers
- Trimmers
- Sprayers
- Fuel storage
- Tool racks
Contractors
Contractors often add:
- Shelving
- Compressors
- Generators
- Extension ladders
- Power tools
- Pipe storage
- Electrical supplies
- Material racks
A larger trailer quickly pays for itself by improving organization.
Race Cars
Race trailers frequently include:
- Tool cabinets
- Spare wheels
- Generator
- Air compressor
- Fuel jugs
- Work benches
- Spare parts
- Canopy equipment
Many racers discover that the trailer becomes their mobile workshop.
Pro Tip
Instead of buying the smallest trailer that fits your equipment today, purchase the trailer that will fit your equipment two or three years from now.
Most owners never regret buying slightly larger—but many regret buying too small.
Still unsure which trailer size is right for you?
Our trailer experts have helped customers choose the right trailer since 2007.
Contact Southern Trailer Depot today for a free recommendation based on your vehicle, cargo, and budget.