Enclosed car carrier trailers

Types of Enclosed Car Carrier Trailers

When it comes to transporting valuable vehicles, the choice of trailer plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and protection. Among the various options available, enclosed car carrier trailers stand out as the epitome of vehicle transport solutions. These trailers provide a protective and secure environment for transporting cars, shielding them from external hazards. But what exactly are enclosed car carrier trailers, and what types are there?

Enclosed car carrier trailers are specialized trailers designed for transporting vehicles, particularly high-value or delicate cars. These trailers enclose the transported vehicles in a structure, offering protection and security. The enclosed design safeguards against weather elements like rain, snow, or wind and shields against road debris, theft, and other potential risks.

There are three main types of enclosed car trailers:

• Enclosed auto trailers

  These are the standard types of trailers that most people think about when the topic of trailers comes up. They are called ""enclosed"" because they have walls and a roof that covers the car being towed. The covering protects the car from weather elements like rain, snow, and strong winds. Enclosed car trailers are the best option for transporting cars, motorcycles, and other valuables.

• Two-car trailers

  These trailers are designed to transport two cars simultaneously. They come in both enclosed and open trailers, with the main difference being the number of cars they can transport. Two-car trailers are ideal for dealerships that need to move a small inventory of cars or for car enthusiasts who attend car shows or events.

• Three-car trailers

  As the name suggests, these trailers can carry three cars. They are often used for commercial purposes, such as car transport businesses. Three-car trailers are usually open, although some models are enclosed. They are designed to be aerodynamic and lightweight, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Specifications and Maintenance of Enclosed Car Carrier Trailers

• Structure

  Enclosed car trailers are heavy-duty trailers built from durable components. The frame of the enclosed trailer is made of wood or steel. Steel is more durable than wood and can last for many years without damage. The floor of the trailer is made of a plywood deck that is strong enough to support the load. Some trailers also have a ramp door that is used to load and unload the cargo. The ramp door is usually made of aluminum, which is a strong and lightweight material. The walls of the car trailer are made from steel or aluminum. Steel is thicker than aluminum. Therefore, it offers more protection. The roof of the enclosed car trailer is made of fiberglass or steel.

• Capacity

  The weight of the enclosed car carrier trailer is a specification that will determine how much it can carry. Enclosed car trailers have a gross weight of between 3,000 to 10,000 pounds. They can carry a load of 5,000 pounds. The payload capacity of a car trailer will determine the number of cars that can be transported in a single trip. For instance, a trailer with a capacity of 3,000 pounds may carry one luxury car, while a trailer with a capacity of 10,000 pounds can carry five standard-sized cars.

• Size

  Enclosed car trailers are built in different sizes to accommodate various loads. They are also designed to fit different vehicle sizes. The enclosed car trailer has a length of between 16 and 30 feet. The height and width vary depending on the model. The height of the enclosed car trailer is between 6 and 8 feet, while the width is between 7 to 8 feet.

Take the following steps to maintain a car trailer:

• Clean the trailer: It is important to clean the enclosed car trailer after every use. Washing the trailer gets rid of dirt, mud, and debris. Cleaning the trailer also increases visibility and safety.
• Inspect the trailer: Inspecting the enclosed car trailer helps identify potential problems before they become serious. Check the tires for wear and tear and replace them if necessary. Also, check the lights, bearings, and brakes to see if they are in good condition.
• Lubricate the trailer: Lubricating the moving parts of the enclosed car trailer reduces friction and makes them work smoothly. Apply lubricant to the axles, wheel bearings, and hinges.
• Protect the trailer: Enclosed car trailers are protected from harsh weather conditions. However, prolonged exposure to extreme weather can damage them. To prevent this, use a UV protector during summer and winterize the trailer.
• Secure the trailer: It is important to secure the enclosed car trailer to prevent theft. Use a lockable coupler to secure the hitch and a padlock to lock the trailer door.

How to choose enclosed car carrier trailers

Wholesale buyers should consider several factors when buying car trailers for sale. These factors will help them cater to their target market's needs. Here are some of the factors to consider:

• Load Capacity

  Business owners need to understand their customers' requirements. They should know the types of cars their clients will transport and the number of vehicles. Then, calculate the combined weight of the vehicles to be transported. Select enclosed car trailers with a higher load capacity than the calculated weight to avoid overloading.

• Size

  The size of the enclosed trailer for car transport is vital when selecting the right unit for the target market. It determines the number of cars that can be accommodated during transport. The trailer size should fit the client's parking space and vehicle clearance height.

• Ramp System

  Another essential feature to consider when choosing a car carrier is the ramp system. A good ramp system offers clients quick loading and unloading of vehicles. Business owners should select enclosed trailers with durable ramps that can withstand frequent use.

• Security Features

  Buyers should consider the security features of enclosed car trailers. The trailers should have lockable side doors, a roof vent, and a secure ramp door to protect the vehicles during transport. Additionally, they should have a trailer brake system and a secure tie-down system to keep the car in place.

• Price

  Different suppliers offer various prices for enclosed car trailers. Therefore, buyers should set a budget and look for trailers that fit their needs within the set budget. They can compare different suppliers to get a good deal.

How to DIY and Replace Enclosed Car Carrier Trailers

Replacing parts of an enclosed car trailer can be a DIY-friendly task. Some essential tools that will be needed include a wrench set, ratchet, sockets, and jack stands. Trailer parts are easy to work on, and simple tasks like replacing the wheel bearings or brakes should be manageable. Always refer to the manufacturer's manual for guidance on simple maintenance tasks and repairs. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace a part of the enclosed car carrier trailer:

• Identify the Problem

  Find out which part of the enclosed car trailer is problematic. Is it the axle, brake, or wheel bearing?

• Gather the Necessary Tools and Parts

  Get the tools that will be needed for the replacement. This could be a wrench set, jack stands, or a drill. Buy the replacement part before starting the work.

• Refer to the User Manual

  Check the user's manual to get the instructions for replacing the specific part. The manual will give guidance on disassembling the trailer and replacing the part.

• Prepare the Trailer

  Park the trailer on a level surface and ensure that it is stable. Refer to the manual for instructions on how to prepare the trailer before replacing the part.

• Disassemble and Replace

  Follow the manual's instructions to disassemble the part that is being replaced. After that, install the new part and assemble everything back together.

• Test

  Before hitting the road, conduct a safety check to ensure that everything is working as it should. Test the part that was replaced to ensure that it is functioning properly.

Q and A

Q1: What are the advantages of enclosed car trailers for businesses?

A1: For businesses, the benefits of these trailers include the ability to transport high-value or delicate vehicles safely, enhancing their professional image, and offering a unique service that can justify higher pricing.

Q2: Can any vehicle be towed by an enclosed car trailer?

A2: Yes, in theory, any vehicle can be towed by an enclosed car trailer, provided the trailer is compatible with the towing vehicle in terms of towing capacity and hitch system. However, the specific details would depend on the trailer size and the towing vehicle's capacity.

Q3: Do enclosed car trailers have a good resale value?

A3: Yes, enclosed car trailers generally maintain a good resale value, especially if they are well maintained. Their value can be influenced by factors such as brand, condition, age, and market demand.

Q4: Are enclosed car trailers suitable for transporting motorcycles?

A4: Enclosed car trailers are absolutely suitable for transporting motorcycles. They provide a safe and protected environment, especially for high-value or specialty motorcycles.

Q5: How can users ensure the security of their vehicles during transport in enclosed trailers?

A5: To ensure vehicle security during transport in enclosed trailers, users should select trailers with robust lock systems, security cameras, and alarm systems. Additionally, they should ensure the trailer is properly locked and secured before every transport.