What is a car trailer?
A car trailer — also called a vehicle transport trailer or car carrier — is a flat-bed trailer with ramps that lets you drive or winch a vehicle on board and transport it behind your tow vehicle. They're used for moving non-runners, transporting show or race cars, delivering recently purchased vehicles, and recovering broken-down cars. Car trailer hire in Australia is far cheaper than booking a tilt-tray tow truck or a transport company for a single trip.
Car trailer hire prices in Australia (2026)
Prices vary by city, trailer size, and whether the trailer includes a winch. On TrailerConnect, hiring directly from a local owner is typically 30–50% cheaper than a hire depot. Here's what to expect:
| Trailer type | Typical daily rate | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Single-car trailer with ramps | $60–$90/day | Running vehicles, standard passenger cars |
| Single-car with winch | $80–$110/day | Non-runners, low-clearance vehicles |
| Tandem/dual-axle car trailer | $90–$140/day | Heavier vehicles, 4WDs, utes |
| Tilt-tray style | $100–$160/day | Very low-clearance, sports cars, show cars |
Weekend hire (Fri–Mon) is often priced as two days rather than three. Always check the listing — many owners offer discounted multi-day rates for interstate or longer trips.
Choosing the right car trailer: what to check
ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass)
The ATM must exceed the weight of the vehicle you're transporting. A typical passenger car weighs 1,200–1,800kg. A loaded SUV or ute can reach 2,500kg. Check the trailer's compliance plate before booking — ATM is always stamped there. You cannot legally overload a trailer, and it's a safety risk even if you try.
Ramp length and clearance
Low-slung vehicles — sports cars, modified cars, anything with an aftermarket front lip — need long ramps with a shallow angle (ideally under 15°). Short ramps on standard trailers can ground out the front bumper. Ask the owner for the ramp angle or load height if your car sits low.
Winch
If the vehicle you're transporting doesn't run, you need a winch. Not all car trailers include one — filter listings or check the description before booking. Electric winches rated at 2,000–3,500kg are standard on most hire trailers that include one.
Tie-down points
A proper car trailer should have at least four dedicated wheel tie-down points — two at the front axle and two at the rear. Ratchet straps go over or around the tyres, never to suspension, bodywork, or tow points. Most TrailerConnect car trailer listings specify whether straps are included.
Do you need a special licence to tow a car trailer?
In most states, no special licence is needed — a standard car licence (Class C) allows you to tow a car trailer as long as the loaded combination is within your vehicle's rated towing capacity. The exceptions are:
- The loaded trailer exceeds your vehicle's towing capacity — this is illegal regardless of licence class. Check your vehicle's owner's manual or compliance plate.
- The combination exceeds 9 tonnes GCM — relevant for commercial transport only, not private hire.
- Electric brakes — any trailer over 750kg GTM must have brakes. Over 2,000kg GTM requires a brake controller in the tow vehicle. Portable plug-in controllers work if your vehicle doesn't have a permanent one fitted.
How to safely load a car onto a trailer
- Park the trailer on the flattest ground available. Chock both trailer wheels.
- Extend and lock the ramps — confirm they're fully engaged before driving onto them.
- Drive the car up slowly, keeping it centred. Use a spotter to guide you — it's almost impossible to judge wheel position alone.
- Apply the car's handbrake. Leave it in gear (manual) or Park (automatic).
- Attach ratchet straps to all four wheels — cross the straps over the front and rear tyres. Tension each strap until the suspension compresses slightly.
- Fold the ramps up before driving and check your load doesn't exceed tow ball weight limits (usually 10% of ATM, max 350kg).
- Drive at reduced speed and check the tie-downs after the first 5km.
Car trailer hire by city
TrailerConnect lists car trailers from local owners across Australia. Browse by your nearest city:
- Car trailer hire Sydney
- Car trailer hire Melbourne
- Car trailer hire Brisbane
- Car trailer hire Perth
- Car trailer hire Adelaide
- Car trailer hire Gold Coast
- Car trailer hire Canberra
- Car trailer hire Newcastle
- Car trailer hire Geelong
Alternatives to hiring a car trailer
If you can't find a car trailer nearby or your vehicle is too heavy, consider:
- Tilt-tray tow truck — more expensive ($200–$500 for a short trip) but operator-managed, no licence or towing experience needed.
- Vehicle transport company — best for interstate moves. Rates start around $400–$800 per vehicle on a multi-car carrier.
- Enclosed trailer hire — for motorcycles or small cars where weather protection is important. See enclosed trailer hire.
Book a car trailer today
Browse verified car trailers from local owners across Australia at trailerconnect.com.au/hire/car-trailer. Most listings include photos, dimensions, ATM, and renter reviews. Instant Book is available on many listings — confirm and go without waiting for approval.