Buying the right enclosed trailer starts with understanding the measurements that matter.
Many buyers focus only on trailer length, but interior width, rear door opening, ramp height, wheel well clearance and overall exterior dimensions are just as important.
This guide explains the most common enclosed trailer measurements and provides an easy-to-read comparison chart so you can confidently choose the right trailer for your vehicle, equipment or business.
Whether you're hauling motorcycles, UTVs, lawn equipment, race cars or commercial cargo, these measurements will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Enclosed Cargo Trailer Measurements
Ramp Height Entry Opening
Ramp Width Entry Opening
Interior Length of V-Nose
Inside Width of Trailer
84" Between Wheel Wells
Total Exterior Length
**Highly Recommend Extended Tongue On All V-Nose Units**
Total Exterior Height
Total Exterior Width
Ground Clearance
*All Measurements Are Estimates Only*
Understanding Trailer Measurements
Interior Width
Interior width determines how much usable cargo space you actually have.
Many buyers assume an 8.5-wide trailer has 102 inches inside, but the usable interior width is actually approximately 96 inches.
This allows many full-size side-by-sides, golf carts and vehicles to fit comfortably while still leaving room for cabinets or shelving.
Width Between Wheel Wells
One of the most important measurements is the distance between the wheel wells.
For most 8.5-wide enclosed trailers this measurement is approximatelyΒ 84 inches.
This determines whether:
- Cars
- UTVs
- Golf carts
- Zero-turn mowers
can fit without climbing over the wheel wells.
Rear Ramp Door Opening
Many people measure their equipment but forget to measure the tallest point entering the trailer.
Always compare your equipment dimensions with:
- Rear opening width
- Rear opening height
before purchasing.
Exterior Height
Exterior height matters when storing your trailer.
Remember to account for:
- Garage doors
- RV storage buildings
- Carports
- Tree limbs
- Parking garages
Overall Trailer Length
A common question is:
"How long is an enclosed trailer including the tongue?"
As a general rule:
Add approximatelyΒ 3 feet 6 inchesΒ to the advertised trailer length.
Example:
| Trailer Size | Approx Exterior Length |
|---|---|
| 6x12 | 15'6" |
| 7x14 | 17'6" |
| 7x16 | 19'6" |
| 8.5x20 | 23'6" |
| 8.5x24 | 27'6" |
Common Trailer Sizes
| Trailer Size | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| 5x8 | Homeowners |
| 6x10 | Lawn Equipment |
| 6x12 | Motorcycles |
| 7x14 | UTVs |
| 7x16 | Contractors |
| 8.5x20 | Cars |
| 8.5x24 | Race Cars |
| 8.5x28 | Commercial |
| 8.5x32 | Large Equipment |
Which Trailer Width Should You Buy?
6-Wide Trailer
Best for:
β Lawn Equipment
β Small ATVs
β Motorcycles
β Homeowners
7-Wide Trailer
Best for:
β Side-by-Sides
β Contractors
β Landscapers
β Small Businesses
8.5-Wide Trailer
Best for:
β Cars
β Race Teams
β Commercial Equipment
β Mobile Workshops
β Concession Builds
Before You Buy
Always measure:
β
Overall vehicle width
β
Overall vehicle height
β
Vehicle length
β
Door opening
β
Future equipment purchases
Buying slightly larger often costs far less than replacing a trailer that becomes too small.
Frequently Asked Questions
How wide is an 8.5 enclosed trailer inside?
ApproximatelyΒ 96 inches wall-to-wallΒ with approximatelyΒ 84 inches between the wheel wells.
What is the rear opening height?
Approximately:
- 69.5 inches on most 6 and 7 wide trailers
- 75.5 inches on most 8.5 wide trailers
How much longer is the trailer than the advertised size?
Typically aroundΒ 3 feet 6 inchesΒ because of the tongue.
Are these measurements exact?
No.
Measurements vary slightly between manufacturers and optional equipment, but these dimensions are an excellent planning guide. Always verify dimensions before ordering a custom trailer.
Find the Perfect Trailer Size
Southern Trailer Depot stocks enclosed cargo trailers fromΒ 4Γ6 through 8.5Γ52 gooseneck models, with custom options available for work, recreation, racing and commercial use. We also offer financing, rent-to-own and nationwide delivery.
Need help deciding?
CallΒ 1-888-403-1902Β or request a free quote, and we'll help you choose the ideal trailer based on what you plan to haul.