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 usually 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. Each owner sets their own price, and the listing shows the current one. Hiring directly from a local owner can work out cheaper than a hire depot. Here's what you'll come across:
| Trailer type | Best for |
|---|---|
| Single-car trailer with ramps | Running vehicles, standard passenger cars |
| Single-car with winch | Non-runners, low-clearance vehicles |
| Tandem/dual-axle car trailer | Heavier vehicles, 4WDs, utes |
| Tilt-tray style | Very low-clearance, sports cars, show cars |
Some owners price a weekend (Fri–Mon) 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 trailer's ATM needs to suit the weight of the vehicle you're transporting. Check the trailer's compliance plate before booking, or ask the owner. There are rules about loading a trailer beyond what it's rated for and they differ between states, so check with your state road authority. Overloading is a safety risk as well.
Ramp length and clearance
Low-slung vehicles, sports cars, modified cars, anything with an aftermarket front lip, need long ramps with a shallow angle. 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, and ask the owner what the winch is rated to pull.
Tie-down points
A proper car trailer should have dedicated wheel tie-down points at the front and the rear. Ratchet straps go over or around the tyres, never to suspension, bodywork, or tow points. Many TrailerConnect car trailer listings specify whether straps are included.
Do you need a special licence to tow a car trailer?
There are rules about licences and towing, and they differ between states. Check with your state road authority before you book. Things worth looking into:
- Your vehicle's towing capacity and the weight of the loaded combination. Check your vehicle's owner's manual or compliance plate, and your state road authority.
- Electric brakes. There are rules about when a trailer needs brakes and when the tow vehicle needs a brake controller. Check with your state road authority. Portable plug-in controllers are an option 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 the wheels, crossing the straps over the front and rear tyres. Tension each strap until the suspension compresses slightly.
- Fold the ramps up before driving. Check the tow ball download against your vehicle's owner's manual and the trailer's compliance plate, and check with your state road authority for the rules that apply.
- Drive at a reduced speed and check the tie-downs early in the trip, then again along the way.
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
- 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, but operator-managed, so you're not towing it yourself.
- Vehicle transport company. Best for interstate moves, with your car carried on a multi-car carrier.
- Enclosed trailer hire. For motorcycles or small cars where weather protection matters. 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. Listings often include photos, dimensions, ATM, and renter reviews. Instant Book is available on many listings. Confirm and go without waiting for approval.