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 hire Sydney
- Cage trailer hire Melbourne
- Cage trailer hire Brisbane
- Cage trailer hire Perth
- Cage trailer hire Adelaide
- Cage trailer hire Gold Coast
- Cage trailer hire Newcastle
- Cage trailer hire Canberra
- Cage trailer hire Geelong
- Cage trailer hire Wollongong
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.
