If you love your vintage car or truck like we do, transporting it can be a big and scary task. Investing in vintage car trailers can be a game-changer, offering safety, convenience, and helping you keep your car’s value up.
However, like any investment, it comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Let’s look at vintage car haulers, and discuss their benefits, potential disadvantages, and factors such as sizing, material, how can you use it to make money, and if they keep their value over time.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Investing in a Car Trailer
Safety and Protection
One of the primary reasons vintage car owners invest in a car trailer is to ensure the safety and protection of their vehicle. Transporting your classic car on a trailer keeps it safe from road debris and weather elements, helping you keep it looking good!
Convenience and Flexibility
A car trailer offers the convenience of moving your car whenever and wherever you want. It also provides flexibility in terms of usage, as you can use it to transport other items.
10 Reasons You Might Want an Enclosed Car Trailer for Your Classic
There are numerous compelling reasons to consider getting a car trailer for your vintage car. From protection to practicality, the advantages are manifold.
Comprehensive List of Benefits
- Enhanced protection during transportation.
- Increases the mobility of your vintage car.
- Maintains the pristine condition of your vehicle.
- Offers a more secure storage solution.
- Increases the resale value of your car.
- Facilitates participation in car shows and events.
- Provides versatility for other transportation needs.
- Can be a good investment with potential value retention.
- Allows for safer long-distance travel.
- Adds a professional edge to your vintage car collection.
Potential Disadvantages of Investing in a Car Trailer
While there are many benefits, it’s also important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a decision.
Considering the Downsides
- The initial cost can be high.
- Requires additional storage space.
- Maintenance and ownership responsibilities.
Essential Details to Consider When Buying a Car Trailer
Sizing
The size of the car trailer is crucial. It should be large enough to accommodate your car comfortably and securely.
You might also want to have some spare room for things you might need once you get where you’re going like cleaning supplies, a cooler, ramps, or any other equipment you might need. Make sure you stock it up right and you won’t have to worry about anything when you get there.
I have friends who carry their vintage truck and a couple of dirt bikes in the back of their vintage trailer and all the other cargo and tools they need to have epic weekends wherever they go!
I know some others that actually built a bed in the back and when they pull their classic truck out they have some living quarters and when they park in the right place, a killer view.
While I still suggest getting an enclosed trailer, some people just get open trailer and make it work.
Material
The material of the trailer plays a significant role in its durability and weight. Aluminum trailers are lightweight and resistant to rust, making them a popular choice and they are used in a lot of race trailers, and you know they put the R&D into making them the best.
Value Retention
High-quality cargo trailers tend to hold their value well over time, making them a profitable investment.
How can you make money with your trailer when I’m not using it personally?
Making money with your trailer when it’s not in personal use is a great way to maximize its value and offset some of the costs associated with owning it. Here are several strategies you can consider:
- Rent it Out: Perhaps the most straightforward way to earn money with your trailer is by renting it out. There’s a consistent demand for trailers for moving, hauling goods, or even for temporary use at events. Websites like U-Haul, Outdoorsy, or local classifieds are good places to list your trailer for rent.
- Advertising Space: Offer your trailer as a mobile advertising space. Local businesses or event organizers might be interested in using your trailer as a moving billboard. This can be especially lucrative if you’re located in a high-traffic area.
- Transportation Services: Offer to transport goods or vehicles for others in your cargo trailer. You might find a niche in transporting vintage cars to shows or dealerships for other people with your car hauler. Alternatively, you could offer general pro hauling services and use it as an equipment trailer.
- Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local businesses that need regular transportation but don’t have their own trailers. For example, local farmers, flea market vendors, video production companies, or construction companies might need occasional transportation services as a utility trailer.
- Seasonal Use: Take advantage of seasonal demands. For example, during peak moving seasons or before major holidays, the demand for trailers can skyrocket.
- Event Rentals: Offer your trailer for events like weddings, fairs, or community events where they might need extra storage or transport capacity.
- Storage Rental: When not in use, your enclosed trailer can serve as a temporary storage unit that you can rent out.
Conclusion
Investing in a car trailer can be beneficial for vintage car owners due to the safety, protection, and convenience it offers. However, it requires a significant initial investment and comes with additional maintenance and storage requirements. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
FAQ
Why Are Car Trailers So Expensive?
Car trailers are expensive due to the high-quality materials used in their construction and the technology incorporated for safety and convenience. You can sometimes find decent places to get financing, just make sure you contact the place and get all the details before signing the dotted line.
What Is the Best Size for a Vintage Trailer?
The best size for a car trailer depends on the dimensions of your vehicle. It should be large enough to accommodate your car securely.
Do Trailers Hold Their Value?
Yes, high-quality car trailers tend to hold their value well, especially if they are well-maintained.
What Is the Best Material for a Car Trailer?
Aluminum is a popular choice for car trailers due to its lightweight nature and resistance to rust.
Can I Use My Car Trailer for Anything Else?
Yes, you can use your car trailer to transport other items, provided they fit securely.
What Type of Trailer Makes the Most Money?
Enclosed car trailers, due to their additional protection and versatility, tend to be more profitable.
What Is the Useful Life of a Car Trailer?
With proper maintenance, a car trailer can last for several years or even decades.
