What is an enclosed trailer?
An enclosed trailer has four solid walls and a roof, completely enclosing the cargo area. Unlike open box or cage trailers, everything inside is protected from rain, wind, dust, and theft. Many enclosed trailers have a rear ramp or swing-door for loading and a lockable latch. They're the go-to choice when you need your load kept dry, secure, and out of sight.
When to hire an enclosed trailer
- Motorcycle transport: bikes are expensive and vulnerable. An enclosed trailer protects against weather, road grit, and curious eyes overnight.
- Interstate moves: driving across multiple states? Enclosed trailers keep furniture and boxes dry over long distances, even in unexpected rain.
- Fragile or valuable items: artwork, electronics, antiques. Enclosed keeps them safe from both weather and road debris.
- Overnight or multi-day hire: if you need to park a loaded trailer overnight, enclosed means it's lockable.
- Business use: contractors and tradespeople often use enclosed trailers to transport tools, parts, and equipment securely.
Enclosed trailer sizes in Australia
- 6×10 foot (single-axle): compact, suits one motorcycle or a small load. Easier to tow, fits in most garages.
- 7×14 or 7×16 foot: a common size. Fits two motorcycles side-by-side or a full bedroom's worth of furniture.
- 8×20 foot (tandem-axle): large loads, multiple vehicles, or business use. Requires a capable tow vehicle.
Many enclosed trailers for hire in Australia are single or tandem axle. Tandem-axle trailers can be more stable at highway speeds and can carry heavier loads, worth choosing for longer trips.
Enclosed vs open trailer: which is right for me?
Choose enclosed when:
- Weather protection matters: rain, dust, wind
- Security matters: overnight parking, lockable storage
- You're transporting a motorcycle or sensitive equipment
Choose open (box or cage) when:
- You're doing a quick local move in fine weather
- Your load is too bulky for an enclosed space
- You need to load from the sides, not just the rear
- You want the cheapest option for a short trip
How much does enclosed trailer hire cost?
Enclosed trailers cost more than open trailers because of their size, weight, and the weather and security protection they give. On TrailerConnect, enclosed trailers start from around $80 a day. Each owner sets their own price, and the listing shows the current one. Traditional hire companies often charge more, so hiring from a local owner can work out cheaper.
What do I need to tow an enclosed trailer?
- Tow bar rated for the load: enclosed trailers are heavier. Check your tow bar's rated capacity, not just your vehicle's.
- Towing capacity: a loaded enclosed trailer can be heavy. Check your vehicle's towing capacity in the owner's manual, and check the trailer's weights on its compliance plate or with the owner.
- Electric brakes and a brake controller: there are rules about trailer brakes and they differ between states, so check with your state road authority. Your vehicle may also need a compatible brake controller.
- 7-pin flat or round connector: verify which plug type the trailer uses before booking.
- Safety chains: the rules differ between states, so check with your state road authority.
If you're not sure whether your vehicle can tow the trailer you're looking at, check your owner's manual or contact your vehicle manufacturer. Never exceed your vehicle's towing rating, and check with your state road authority for the rules that apply where you're towing.
Do I need special insurance?
Talk to your own insurer before you hire. Ask whether your cover extends to towing a trailer, and to a trailer of the value you're looking at. Enclosed trailers often have accessories like ramps and tie-downs that can be damaged, so ask about those too. Your insurer is the only one who can tell you what you're covered for.
Find an enclosed trailer near you
Browse available enclosed trailers at trailerconnect.com.au/hire/enclosed-trailer. Search by suburb to find the closest listing. Many owners offer Instant Book, with no waiting for approval. If you're transporting a motorcycle, check the listing dimensions against your bike's footprint before booking.