What size trailer do I need?

The right trailer is the one that fits the load with a little room to spare, not the biggest one on the yard. Hiring too large means paying for space you do not use and towing more weight than you need, so start with what you are actually moving.

For a tip run, a few boxes or a boot-load too big for the car, a 6x4 or 7x5 box trailer (from $40) is the everyday workhorse. Drop-side versions make loading and shovelling out easier.

For light but bulky loads that would blow out or fall off a flat tray, add a cage. A cage trailer (from $50) suits a rubbish clear-out, a mattress, boxes or garden prunings, because the high mesh sides let you stack up without losing the load.

For a small move, a furniture trailer (from $70) that is enclosed or high-sided keeps a one or two bedroom shift dry, clean and secure. Look for a low deck or a ramp for lifting and enough internal height for a fridge or wardrobe.

For a vehicle, a ride-on mower or a small machine, you need a rated car carrier or transporter (from $80) with ramps and, for heavier loads, a braked coupling. For soil, sand, gravel or mulch, a tipper trailer (from $90) lifts and tips so you are not shovelling it out by hand.

When in doubt, describe the load to the yard: what it is, roughly how big and how heavy, and they will point you to the right trailer. Trailer Hire Near Me sends you the numbers of local yards so you can ask before you book, free of charge.