Cage Trailer Hire in Australia: Sizes, Prices & What to Know

What is a cage trailer?

A cage trailer is an open-sided trailer with high mesh or steel cage walls — typically 400–600mm tall — that prevent loose loads from falling out. They're the most common trailer type in Australia and the go-to choice for tip runs, garden waste, furniture, building rubble, green waste, and general moving. Cage trailer hire is available from local owners across Australia on TrailerConnect, usually for $40–$80/day depending on size.

Cage trailer sizes explained

Australian cage trailers are measured in feet — width × length (e.g. 6×4, 8×5, 10×6). The first number is the width, the second is the deck length. Here's what each size suits:

Size	Approx deck area	Best for	Typical ATM
6×4	1.8m × 1.2m	Small tip runs, bags of mulch, household waste	500–750kg
7×4 / 7×5	2.1m × 1.5m	Garden waste, boxes, small furniture loads	750–1,000kg
8×5	2.4m × 1.5m	Furniture moves, larger tip runs, renovation waste	1,000–1,500kg
10×5	3.0m × 1.5m	Full room of furniture, long items like timber or pipe	1,500–2,000kg
10×6	3.0m × 1.8m	Big moves, bulky items, large tip loads, ride-on mowers	2,000–3,500kg

If you're doing a tip run with a full load of soil or concrete rubble, be aware these materials are very heavy. A cubic metre of soil weighs around 1,400–1,600kg. An 8×5 trailer loaded 300mm deep with soil can easily exceed 1,000kg — check the ATM before loading.

How much does cage trailer hire cost?

On TrailerConnect, cage trailer hire typically costs:

6×4 trailer: $35–$55/day
8×5 trailer: $45–$70/day
10×5 or 10×6 trailer: $60–$90/day
Tandem-axle cage trailer: $75–$110/day

These are local-owner rates — typically 20–40% cheaper than hire depot prices. Weekend rates are often slightly higher. Many owners offer half-day rates for short jobs like a single tip run.

Do I need a ramp?

Many cage trailers include a drop-down rear ramp, which makes loading ride-on mowers, motorcycles, wheelbarrows, or wheeled equipment much easier. If you're loading anything that can't be lifted, make sure the listing specifies a ramp. Search filters on TrailerConnect let you filter by trailer features.

Towing requirements for cage trailers

The key rules for towing a cage trailer in Australia:

ATM under 750kg — no trailer brakes required. Any car with a tow bar can tow it.
ATM 750kg–2,000kg — trailer must have brakes. Check the listing — most 8×5 and larger trailers have override brakes built in.
ATM over 2,000kg — trailer must have electric brakes, and your vehicle must have a brake controller fitted. This applies to large tandem trailers.
Ball size — most Australian trailers use a 50mm tow ball. Confirm your tow bar has the correct ball size.
Towing capacity — the loaded trailer weight must not exceed your vehicle's rated towing capacity (found in your owner's manual or on a compliance plate in the engine bay).

Tips for tip runs

Cage trailers are the standard choice for tip runs across Australia. A few tips to make the trip smooth:

Call your local tip before you go to confirm they accept the material you're dropping — some sites don't take asbestos, treated timber, or certain chemicals.
Cover light loads (mulch, grass clippings, plastic bags) with a tarp or net — it's a legal requirement on Australian roads and prevents debris from hitting other vehicles.
Don't overload. Tipping fees are often calculated by weight at the gate. Overloading is also illegal and can damage the trailer's axle or your tow vehicle.
Allow extra time — tip queues are longest on weekend mornings. Arriving just before close on a weekday is often the fastest option.

Cage trailer hire by city

Browse cage trailers from verified local owners across Australia:

Cage trailer vs enclosed trailer: which should you hire?

A cage trailer is the right choice for most everyday jobs — tip runs, garden waste, furniture, building material. If you're moving items that can't get wet (mattresses, electronics, cardboard boxes), or you want a lockable load, consider an enclosed trailer instead. For a full comparison, see our cage trailer vs enclosed trailer guide.

Start your search

Find a cage trailer near you at trailerconnect.com.au/hire/cage-trailer. Browse by suburb, compare sizes and prices, and book instantly. Most listings are available 7 days, with flexible pickup times to suit your schedule.