Hiring a car carrier: weights, ramps and braked couplings

A car carrier or transporter is a heavy tandem trailer with a flat deck and loading ramps, built to move a car, 4WD, ride-on mower, race car or small machine. It is a big step up from a box trailer, so a few checks keep the job safe and legal.

Weight is the first thing to get right. Add the trailer's own weight to the vehicle you are loading and the total must sit under your tow vehicle's towing capacity. A loaded car carrier is often well over a tonne, so a light car simply cannot tow it, no matter how good the deal.

Braked couplings matter at these weights. Heavier trailers have their own braking system and a coupling to match, so your tow vehicle needs the wiring and the rating to suit. If you are unsure whether your car has what is needed, the yard can tell you once they know the make and model.

Loading is a careful, low-speed job. Line the ramps up square, drive on slowly and straight, set the handbrake, and chock the wheels. Then tie the vehicle down at rated points with proper straps or chains, front and back, so it cannot roll or shift on the drive.

Do the same walk-around as any tow: coupling locked, safety chains on, plug in and lights working, jockey wheel up. Then drive gently, brake early, and take corners wide, because a loaded transporter changes how your car stops and turns.

A car carrier starts from $80 a day, and a heavier plant trailer (from $110) covers machinery. Trailer Hire Near Me lists local yards that hire both, free, so you can confirm the fit for your tow vehicle before you book.