Whether you’re a car enthusiast taking your prized vehicle to a show, a mechanic moving customer cars, or a business owner transporting fleet vehicles, having the right car hauler trailer makes all the difference. Transporting vehicles safely requires reliability, balance, and quality craftsmanship—and choosing the wrong trailer can result in costly damage or safety hazards.
At Wright-Way Trailers in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, we’ve helped customers find the right car hauler for decades. Our team knows how important your vehicles are to you, and we take pride in providing trailers that deliver dependable performance for years to come. This guide will cover everything you need to know about car hauler trailers, including the different types, must-have safety features, maintenance tips, and what to consider before purchasing.
Why Choose a Car Hauler Trailer?
Car hauler trailers are designed specifically to carry vehicles—anything from classic cars to race cars, SUVs, or ATVs. Compared to standard flatbeds or utility trailers, car haulers have enhanced load distribution, lower deck heights, and secure tie-down systems to prevent shifting during transit.
A car hauler’s specialized design ensures that your vehicle rides smoothly over bumps and inclines, keeping it safe from road debris and weather exposure.
Statistic: According to the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, nearly 60% of car owners who transport their vehicles more than twice per year report fewer issues when using a purpose-built car hauler compared to a modified flatbed or tow dolly.
1. Open vs. Enclosed Car Haulers
One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to purchase an open or enclosed car hauler.
Open Car Haulers
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Typically lighter and more affordable.
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Easier to load and unload with ramps or tilts.
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Perfect for short-distance transport or durable vehicles that can handle exposure.
Best for: Towing companies, local dealerships, and contractors needing frequent, short-distance hauling.
Enclosed Car Haulers
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Offer full protection from weather, dust, and debris.
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Provide added security for classic or high-value cars.
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Allow you to transport multiple vehicles with confidence.
Best for: Auto enthusiasts, professional race teams, and anyone who values vehicle protection.
Pro Tip: In Iowa’s unpredictable climate—with snow in winter and storms in summer—many customers prefer enclosed car haulers for year-round use and long-distance trips.
2. Trailer Material: Steel vs. Aluminum
The material of your car hauler plays a huge role in its performance, maintenance, and lifespan.
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Steel Trailers: Strong and affordable but require rust prevention—especially during Iowa winters when salt and moisture can corrode metal.
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Aluminum Trailers: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and easier to tow—ideal for long-term use and resale value.
At Wright-Way Trailers, we proudly carry trusted brands like Aluma, Big Tex, and H&H Trailers, offering both steel and aluminum options so you can choose what fits your hauling needs best.
3. Weight Capacity and Size
Knowing your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) ensures you stay within safe limits for both the trailer and the towing vehicle.
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Single-car haulers: Generally range from 7,000 to 10,000 lbs GVWR.
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Dual-car haulers: Can exceed 14,000 lbs GVWR and require larger trucks for towing.
Tip: Always verify your tow vehicle’s capacity before buying. Wright-Way’s sales experts help customers calculate safe weight combinations, preventing overloading that could lead to tire blowouts or axle damage.
4. Essential Safety Features
Safety is at the heart of every Wright-Way trailer recommendation. Whether you’re hauling across Cedar Rapids or across state lines, these features are must-haves:
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Heavy-duty ramps or tilt beds for easy loading.
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D-rings and E-track tie-downs to secure the vehicle at all four corners.
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Electric brakes on all axles for smooth, controlled stopping.
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Breakaway switch systems to engage brakes if disconnected.
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LED lighting for visibility in low-light conditions.
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Proper tire load ratings for added stability.
Did you know? The U.S. Department of Transportation found that trailers with integrated braking systems and proper tire inflation reduce accident risk by up to 40% compared to non-braked trailers.
5. Maintenance for Longevity
Like any vehicle, your trailer needs care to ensure safety and performance. At Wright-Way Trailers, our service department in Cedar Rapids helps customers protect their investments with regular inspections and tune-ups.
Maintenance Checklist
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Check tire pressure and tread before every trip.
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Inspect bearings and grease them every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
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Clean and wax aluminum surfaces to prevent corrosion.
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Test lights and wiring frequently for secure connections.
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Examine the brake controller and adjust it for load weight.
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Lubricate ramps, hinges, and couplers for smooth operation.
Proper maintenance is the difference between a trailer that lasts five years and one that lasts twenty.
6. Loading and Hauling Tips for Vehicle Safety
Even with a high-quality car hauler, the way you load your vehicle affects safety and control.
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Balance the load. Place 60% of the weight ahead of the axles.
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Use wheel chocks and straps. Tighten evenly on all four corners.
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Engage the parking brake once the vehicle is secured.
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Avoid sudden acceleration or braking while towing.
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Perform a test pull before a long haul to ensure everything is secure.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to car hauling, Wright-Way Trailers can show you best practices for loading and strapping vehicles to avoid damage or shifting loads.
7. Choosing the Right Axle and Brake System
Car haulers typically come with either single or tandem axles.
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Single Axle: Ideal for smaller cars or short trips; easier to maneuver.
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Tandem Axle: Better for heavier vehicles or frequent towing; improves stability and reduces tire wear.
For braking, electric brakes controlled by your tow vehicle are the most common and effective option. They provide responsive stopping power and help distribute weight more evenly when slowing down on Iowa’s hilly terrain.
8. Customization Options for Your Car Hauler
Every customer has unique needs. That’s why Wright-Way Trailers offers customization options to make your hauler work exactly the way you need it to.
Popular upgrades include:
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Winches for loading non-operational vehicles.
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Extra tie-down anchors and track systems.
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Cabinets and storage compartments inside enclosed trailers.
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LED interior lighting for night work.
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Custom paint and graphics to promote your business on the go.
Whether you’re hauling for personal use or commercial operations, customization enhances efficiency and adds a professional touch.
9. Real Customer Experience
"I needed a reliable car hauler for my restoration business in Cedar Rapids, and Wright-Way Trailers went above and beyond. They took time to understand my needs and recommended an enclosed Aluma model that fits my classic cars perfectly. It’s smooth, sturdy, and easy to tow—even on long hauls. Their team made the whole buying process simple and stress-free. I couldn’t be happier with the purchase!"
— Jason R., Cedar Rapids, IA
This is just one of many stories from Iowans who trust Wright-Way Trailers for honest advice and long-lasting products.
10. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Car Hauler
Even experienced drivers can make costly errors when choosing a trailer. Here’s what to watch for:
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Underestimating weight capacity – Overloading stresses axles and tires.
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Ignoring tow vehicle limits – Always check towing ratings.
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Skipping the inspection – Make sure the frame, brakes, and lights are in top shape.
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Forgetting insurance coverage – Ask your agent if your policy covers trailers.
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Choosing the wrong length – Measure your vehicle and account for clearance.
Buying from a trusted dealer like Wright-Way Trailers ensures you get a trailer that’s properly matched to your needs and professionally inspected for safety.
11. Legal and Registration Requirements in Iowa
Before hitting the road, make sure your car hauler meets Iowa DOT requirements for registration, lighting, and weight limits.
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All trailers must be registered and display a valid license plate.
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Brakes are required on trailers exceeding 3,000 pounds.
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Trailers must have working tail lights, turn signals, and reflectors.
The team at Wright-Way Trailers can help you navigate these requirements and ensure your purchase is completely road-legal before you leave the lot.
12. Why Buy Local from Wright-Way Trailers
Choosing a local dealer means choosing expertise, support, and a relationship that lasts long after your purchase.
At Wright-Way Trailers, we don’t just sell trailers—we stand behind them. We offer:
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Full inventory of open and enclosed car haulers.
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Financing options for business and personal buyers.
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Professional maintenance and repairs in-house.
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Friendly, experienced staff who treat you like family.
Our mission is simple: help you haul safely and confidently the Wright Way.
13. Long-Term Value and Resale Potential
High-quality car haulers retain value when properly maintained. Buyers in Iowa often trade in older models after 5–10 years and receive strong resale offers—especially on well-maintained aluminum trailers.
Statistic: Data from Trailer Trade News shows that aluminum car haulers hold up to 80% of their value after five years, outperforming steel trailers by nearly 20%.
This means your investment in a quality car hauler pays off—not just in performance but in long-term equity.
14. Expert Advice and Support from Iowa’s Trusted Trailer Dealer
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced hauler, our team at Wright-Way Trailers is here to guide you every step of the way. From helping you select the right model to explaining maintenance best practices, we’re committed to delivering Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) in every interaction.
We take the guesswork out of vehicle transport by providing honest recommendations and top-rated trailers built to last.
Final Thoughts: Haul Safely and Confidently the Wright Way
Transporting a vehicle doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right car hauler trailer, you can move vehicles safely, efficiently, and with peace of mind.
From choosing the correct axle setup to maintaining your brakes and tires, each detail matters. At Wright-Way Trailers, we help you find the perfect match for your needs and budget—backed by local service you can trust.
If you’re ready to invest in quality, visit our Cedar Rapids location or call us today at (319) 393-4544. We’ll help you haul safely and smartly—the Wright Way.