Not every trailer works with every vehicle, and guessing wrong can lead to unsafe towing, blown suspension, or an unsatisfying investment. Before you buy your trailer, it’s worth taking a step back to understand how much your vehicle can pull and what kind of trailer really fits your needs. This guide walks you through key factors like hitch styles, weight capacity, budget considerations, and common trailer types. We’ll also break down top trailer picks for popular vehicles like the Subaru Outback, Toyota Tacoma, and Ram 3500, so you can confidently match your tow setup.
What to consider when choosing a trailer for your vehicle
Before you choose a trailer, you need to know what your vehicle can handle to determine whether your setup is safe, legal, and practical for real-world use. This section covers the basics: how hitch classes work, how to find your vehicle’s tow capacity, and how to match your trailer to your vehicle without overloading it (or your budget).
1. Hitch classes, size, & towing capacity
The hitch on your vehicle determines what types of trailers your vehicle can safely tow. Most vehicles use one of five hitch classes, each rated for a specific towing capacity or weight. Towing a loaded trailer that exceeds the towing capacity of your hitch risks damage to your vehicle and creates an illegal road hazard.
Reference the hitch class chart below to understand your vehicle’s hitch class, size, towing capacity, and typical hauling vehicle:
Hitch Class Chart
Always check your vehicle’s hitch type, class, towing capacity, and size to match it correctly with your trailer and stay safe and legal on the road.
2. Your vehicle’s tow rating & the trailer’s GVWR
Before you haul anything, it’s critical to understand these two key terms: your vehicle’s tow rating and the trailer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
The tow rating is how much additional weight your vehicle can pull
The vehicle’s tow rating, otherwise called tow weight or tow capacity, tells you the maximum weight it can safely pull in addition to its own weight. If your vehicle has a tow rating of 5,000 lbs, you can add an additional 5,000 lbs of weight to your car.
For example: A trailer that weighs 5,000 lbs unloaded is not a safe match, because when you load the trailer it will exceed your vehicle's tow rating. Instead, you'd need to find a trailer with a GVWR that, when fully loaded, still stays at or under your vehicle's 5,000-lb limit.
The trailer’s GVWR is the maximum safe weight of the trailer when loaded
The GVWR is the maximum amount of total weight the trailer can safely handle, including the weight of the trailer itself.
For example: If a trailer has a GVWR of 7,000 lbs and weighs 2,000 lbs empty, you can only load it with 5,000 pounds of cargo. Go over that limit, and you risk damaging your trailer, overloading your vehicle, and creating unsafe towing conditions.
Compare a trailer’s GVWR with your vehicle’s tow rating for safety
To determine if your vehicle can safely tow a trailer, ensure your vehicle’s tow rating matches or exceeds the trailer’s GVWR.
For example: A vehicle that can tow 5,000 lbs will be able to safely tow a properly loaded trailer with a GVWR of 5,000 lbs or less.
Always check your owner’s manual or door jamb sticker for your vehicle’s maximum tow rating, and make sure the fully loaded trailer stays at or under that number. If you're close to the limit, it’s worth giving yourself some buffer to ensure a safe towing experience.
3. Whether to buy new or used
Your budget plays a big role in choosing the right trailer.
- New trailers come with full warranties, zero wear, and the latest features, but they’ll cost more upfront and may be more investment than you currently need.
- Used trailers can save you money, especially if you know what to look for, but you’ll want to inspect the frame, brakes, wiring, and tires closely before committing.
If you're on the fence about buying used, here’s a buying guide to help you make a good decision.
Choosing a trailer comes down to knowing your vehicle, your towing limits, and how you plan to use it. When those pieces line up, your decision gets easier. With a clear understanding of hitch types, weight ratings, and your budget, you’re set up to find a trailer that does the job you need it to without creating problems down the line.
Learn more: What Equipment Is Required on a Trailer? Everything You Need for Legal & Safe Towing
Types of trailers you can choose
The best place to start when buying a trailer is to identify the trailer type that lines up with your hauling needs. The trailer you need for landscaping equipment isn’t the same as one for moving a car or clearing out debris, and some trailers are more versatile than others. Weight, shape, and access points all factor into the decision. Below are some of the most common trailer types, each built for specific tasks and tow capacities.
Utility trailers
A utility trailer is a reliable and versatile choice for hauling equipment, supplies, or yard waste. With open sides and easy access, they’re popular among homeowners, DIYers, and small-business owners.
Typical GVWR range: 3,000-12,000 lbs.*
Enclosed trailers
Enclosed trailers offer full protection from weather and theft, making them ideal for movers and anyone hauling valuable gear. With multiple sizes and models available, they’re great for storing tools or supplies on-site and keep everything out of sight when parked.
Typical GVWR range: 3,000-14,000 lbs*
Learn more: 5 Best Enclosed Trailer Brands
ATV/UTV & car haulers
ATV/UTV trailers and car haulers are built for transporting vehicles safely and can be enclosed or open. Most have low-profile ramps, open decks, and plenty of tie-down points to secure cars, ATVs, or small machinery during transport.
Typical GVWR range: 2,000-22,500 lbs.*
Learn more: Best Trailers for ATVs, UTVs, and Side-by-Sides
Horse and livestock trailers
Horse and livestock trailers are designed to safely transport animals. They often include side ramps, drop-down windows, and tack storage to make loading and travel easier for both the horse and the handler. Depending on size, they can be pulled by a midsize truck or larger heavy-duty vehicle.
Typical GVWR range: 7,000-16,000 lbs.*
Flatbed trailer
Flatbed trailers are best for oversized or awkward loads that won’t fit in enclosed or sided trailers. No fenders or railings means full use of the bed width, making them ideal for moving furniture or transporting recreational equipment.
Typical GVWR range: 10,000-25,000 lbs.*
Dump trailer
Dump trailers are made for moving loose material like gravel, dirt, or demolition debris. With hydraulic lift systems and high payload capacity, they’re a go-to for contractors who need to load, haul, and unload fast.
Typical GVWR range: 3,000-30,000 lbs.*
Learn more: Ultimate Dump Trailer Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right trailer comes down to knowing what you’ll be hauling and how often you’ll be using it. Each trailer type has its strengths, and the right one will save you time, protect your load, and make your towing setup work harder for you. Once you’ve matched the trailer to the job, you’ll be in a better spot to compare specs, prices, and towing compatibility.
*Check your exact year, model, and configuration to determine your trailer’s correct GVWR.
Best trailers for your towing vehicle
Your trailer options depend heavily on what your vehicle can tow. To make things easier, we’ve outlined some of the most commonly used vehicles for light-to-heavy towing and matched them with our trailer recommendations that fit within their typical tow ratings.
Keep in mind that exact capacities can vary by model, engine, and equipment package, so always double-check your owner's manual or door sticker before making a final decision.
Best trailers for a Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a capable midsize SUV with a roomy interior, solid ground clearance, and standard all-wheel drive with the ability to handle rougher roads, weekend gear, or light towing.
Tow rating: 2,700-3,500 lbs.*
1. Mission 12’ Raft Trailer
If you’re looking for a dependable and easy way to haul your raft, the Mission 12’ raft trailer is just what you need. All-aluminum construction, 7 tie-down points, and a sturdy winch make this trailer a convenient choice for your favorite sport.
GVWR: 2,200 lbs.
2. Homesteader 5x8 Enclosed Cargo Trailer
With an all-steel frame, door holdbacks, and aerodynamic styling, the Homesteader 5x8 enclosed cargo trailer is a convenient and well-designed option for haulers wanting extra cargo space without the bulk.
Learn more: Homesteader Trailer Buying Guide: Types, Models, and Sizes
GVWR: 2,990 lbs.
Best trailers for a Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV built for everyday driving with the added benefit of off-road capability. It offers available four-wheel drive and enough towing strength for small trailers or outdoor gear.
Tow rating: 4,000-4,500 lbs.*
1. Homesteader 6x12 Single Axle Enclosed Challenger Trailer
The tube steel frame, one piece aluminum roof, and 6’ wide ramp door on this Homesteader 6x12 single axle trailer make it a sturdy and practical choice as a medium-weight enclosed trailer.
GVWR: 2,990 lbs.
2. Nolan 6x12 Utility/Landscape Trailer
From equipment to tree branches, the Nolan 6x12 utility/landscape trailer will be ready. With a dove tail deck, 2k jack on the tongue, and a sturdy rear gate ramp, this trailer will be a reliable match for your typical workday.
GVWR: 3,500 lbs.
Best trailers for a Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup with a reputation for durability and off-road performance. It pairs a strong frame with practical towing power, making it a go-to for hauling weekend toys, medium trailers, and gear without needing a full-size truck.
Tow rating: 6,500 lbs.*
1. Choice Cargo 6x12 Single Axle Enclosed Cargo Trailer
Featuring a spring suspension, polycore aluminum skin, and 16” tubing on center flooring and walls, the Choice Cargo 6x12 enclosed cargo trailer is a smooth-riding and reliable option for securing your load.
GVWR: 2,990 lbs.
2. Homesteader 610LB Dump Trailer
The Homesteader 610LB dump trailer is a durable choice that offers a 12-gauge steel body, heavy duty steel flooring, and a built-in tarp and cover with a tie-down system.
GVWR: 7,000 lbs.
Best trailers for a Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Chevrolet Silverado is a ½-ton full-size pickup ready for everything from hauling landscaping equipment through the week to off-roading on the weekends. Featuring advanced trailering technology and a spacious cabin, the Silverado is a popular choice for medium-weight towing.
Tow rating: 9,600-13,000 lbs.*
1. Choice Cargo 7x14 Tandem Axle Enclosed Cargo Trailer
Built for higher storage capacity, the Choice Cargo 7x14 enclosed cargo trailer features a manual top wind jack, tubular uprights, and a 7-way plug for your convenience.
GVWR: 7,000 lbs.
2. Hawke 7x12 12K Low Profile Dump Trailer
If you’re looking for a well-designed, reliable, and secure dump trailer for your heavy loads, the Hawke 7x12 12k dump trailer is a match for your workload. This low profile dump trailer features two heavy duty braking axles, a double-eye spring suspension, and a 3x3 tubing dump box frame.
GVWR: 12,000 lbs.
Best trailers for a Ford F-250 Super Duty
The Ford F-250 Super Duty is a ¾-ton full-size truck popular for its versatility as a durable vehicle for both work and personal use. It provides a stable ride for hauling a camper or work equipment.
Tow rating: 12,600-23,000 lbs.*
1. Sure-Trac 7x14 Low Profile Telescopic Lift Dump Trailer
The Sure-Trac 7x14 telescopic lift dump trailer offers multiple well-designed features, including convenient underbed ramp storage and a heavy duty reinforced barn door and spreader gate combo.
GVWR: 14,000 lbs.
Learn more: Sure-Trac Trailers Review: Features, Types, and Recommendations
2. Sundowner 2+1 Gooseneck Horse Trailer
The Sundowner 2+1 gooseneck trailer is a versatile choice for hauling 2-3 horses and extra equipment in a compact and well-constructed design. Large enough to accommodate a small ATV or golf cart, this horse trailer handles everything from day trips to weekend excursions.
GVWR: 9,990 lbs.
Learn more: 5 Sundowner Horse Trailers Reviewed
Best trailers for a Ram 3500
The Ram 3500 is a one-ton heavy duty pickup with multiple equipment packages available to maximize its impressive payload capacity. It’s an impressive option for haulers who need to tow heavy equipment, high-volume materials, and horse trailers.
Tow rating: 14,460-37,090 lbs.*
1. Choice Cargo 8.5x24 Tandem Axle 14K Enclosed Car Hauler
This Choice Cargo enclosed car hauler features a 24’ floor, 7,000 lb. tandem braking axles, and a convenient side access door. The strong construction, safe design, and watertight sealing make it a reliable choice to safely haul your vehicle.
GVWR: 14,000 lbs.
Learn more: Car Hauler Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Car Trailer
2. Hawke 7x16 16K 48” Dump Trailer
Featuring 48” sides, a sturdy scissor hoist, and a built-in tarp, the Hawke 7x16 dump trailer is built to handle every heavy load you haul. From landscaping materials to demolition debris, this durable dump trailer will hold up on every trip.
GVWR: 16,000 lbs.
Taking the time to understand your vehicle’s tow rating, hitch setup, and trailer options allows you to make a safe and practical decision. A well-matched trailer will keep your setup running smoothly and help you get to your destination without added hassle.
*Check your exact year, model and towing configuration to determine your vehicle’s correct tow rating.
Come find the perfect trailer for your vehicle
If you’d like more information on how to select a trailer or if you’re ready to explore our inventory, come on by or give us a call—we’re happy to answer your questions to help you find exactly what you need. Whether you’re from Asheville, Hendersonville, Spartanburg, or Greenville, SC, we’re located right down the road in Campobello, SC, off of exit 5 on I-26.
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