Enclosed Trailer Buying Guide

Why Choose an Enclosed Trailer?

An enclosed trailer protects your cargo from weather, theft, and road debris. Unlike an open utility trailer, an enclosed trailer keeps your equipment, tools, merchandise, or vehicles completely covered during transport and storage.

Enclosed trailers are popular with contractors, landscapers, race teams, musicians, food vendors, and anyone who needs to transport valuable or weather-sensitive cargo. They also double as secure on-site storage at job sites or events.

Choosing the Right Size

Enclosed trailers are measured by interior floor dimensions. The most common sizes:

Interior height is also important. Standard enclosed trailers are 6 ft interior height. "V-nose" trailers add a few inches of usable length at the front. Tall trailers (6.5 ft or 7 ft interior) are available for standing work or tall cargo.

Construction: Aluminum vs. Steel Frame

Enclosed trailers are built on either a steel or aluminum frame, with aluminum or steel skin panels. The most common configurations:

• All-aluminum construction — lighter weight, naturally rust-resistant, holds resale value well. Popular for car haulers and premium cargo trailers. Higher upfront cost.
• Steel frame with aluminum skin — the most common construction for mid-range cargo trailers. Strong frame, lighter skin panels. Requires attention to frame rust over time.
• All-steel construction — most affordable, very strong, but heaviest. Requires paint maintenance to prevent rust. Common in budget-priced cargo trailers.

For most buyers in Central New York — where road salt is a reality — an aluminum-skin trailer with a well-coated steel frame is a practical middle ground.

Key Features and Options

• Rear ramp door — the most popular option; allows easy loading of wheeled equipment. Look for a ramp that folds flush with the floor and has a smooth transition.
• Side door — a walk-in door on the side for quick access without opening the rear ramp. Essential for contractors who need frequent access.
• V-nose vs. flat nose — V-nose trailers are more aerodynamic (better fuel economy) and add a few inches of interior length. Flat-nose trailers are simpler and slightly less expensive.
• Interior lighting — LED dome lights are standard on most quality trailers. Useful for loading in low light.
• E-track or D-rings — tie-down anchor systems built into the floor and walls. Essential for securing cargo.
• Insulation — available on some models; useful if you're using the trailer as a mobile workshop or storing temperature-sensitive equipment.
• Vents — roof vents reduce heat buildup and condensation inside the trailer.
• Spare tire — highly recommended, especially for long trips or remote job sites.

Common Uses

• Landscaping and lawn care — transport mowers, blowers, trimmers, and supplies; lock up equipment overnight at job sites
• Contracting and construction — mobile tool storage and transport; keep tools dry and secure
• Motorcycle and powersports — enclosed transport protects bikes from weather and road debris
• Car hauling and racing — wide enclosed trailers fit full-size vehicles; popular with race teams
• Moving and storage — rent or own; enclosed trailers protect furniture and belongings from weather
• Food vending and mobile business — many vendors convert enclosed trailers into mobile kitchens or retail spaces

Brands We Carry

Patriot Trailer Solutions stocks enclosed trailers from several trusted manufacturers, including:

• Haulmark — American-made enclosed trailers with a strong reputation for quality
• American Hauler — wide range of cargo and car-hauler trailers
• Homesteader — value-priced enclosed trailers popular with contractors
• ITI Cargo — quality enclosed cargo trailers at competitive prices
• US Cargo — enclosed trailers built for working professionals

Browse our current enclosed trailer inventory to see what's in stock today.