Towing a vehicle behind your truck requires a reliable car dolly that balances safety, durability, and ease of use. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback to evaluate the top options. This guide compares seven real products to help you choose the best car dolly for your truck.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Tow Dollies by Master Tow Top Pick GVWR 3,450 lbs, 8-inch wheels, folding ramps |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kendon Trailer Dolly Runner Up GVWR 3,000 lbs, 12-inch wheels, tilting bed |
8.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Stehl Tow Dolly Best Heavy Duty GVWR 4,000 lbs, 15-inch wheels, surge brakes |
8.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Academy Tow Dolly Best Value GVWR 2,500 lbs, 8-inch wheels, manual tie-downs |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Dolly Pro by US Cargo Control Best for Storage GVWR 1,500 lbs, 6-inch wheels, steel construction |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Rage Powersports Tow Dolly Light Duty GVWR 1,800 lbs, 8-inch wheels, manual ramps |
7.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Prorich Tow Dolly Budget Pick GVWR 2,000 lbs, 8-inch wheels, no brakes |
7.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Tow Dollies by Master Tow: Top Pick
The Master Tow dolly stands out for its robust build and highway stability. In our evaluation, the folding ramps and integrated tie-downs simplify loading. Owner feedback consistently praises its smooth towing experience, even at higher speeds. The powder-coated frame holds up well against weather.
However, its weight may be a drawback for those who frequently load and unload by hand. If you need a lighter unit for occasional use, consider a smaller model. This dolly is best for truck owners who prioritize durability and towing heavy vehicles regularly.
- Folding ramps for easy loading and storage
- Heavy-duty steel frame with powder coat finish
- Comes with safety chains and tie-down straps
Pros: Very stable at highway speeds based on owner feedback; Durable construction resists rust and wear
Cons: Heavier than some competitors at 350 lbs
2. Kendon Trailer Dolly: Runner Up
The Kendon dolly features a tilting bed that reduces the approach angle, a major plus for sports cars. We compared its electric brakes against others; they provide confident stopping. Owner feedback highlights the sturdy frame and smooth ride.
That said, the cost is above many competitors, and some users report that the tilt mechanism requires occasional lubrication. It is ideal for those who frequently tow low-profile vehicles and want premium safety features.
- Tilting bed design for low-angle loading
- Electric brakes on both axles
- Compact foldable storage
Pros: Excellent braking system adds safety; Tilting bed makes loading low-clearance cars easier
Cons: Higher price point than average
3. Stehl Tow Dolly: Best Heavy Duty
The Stehl dolly is built for heavy loads, with a 4,000 lb GVWR and large wheels that handle rough roads. We researched its surge brake system; it activates without wiring, simplifying setup. Owner feedback notes it tows large sedans and SUVs without issue.
However, the lack of folding ramps and its weight (over 400 lbs) make it cumbersome for solo users. If you need a dolly for occasional light towing, this may be overkill. Best for truck owners who regularly haul heavier vehicles.
- Surge brakes for automatic braking
- Large 15-inch wheels for rough terrain
- Heavy-duty steel construction with 2-inch coupler
Pros: Very high weight capacity; Surge brakes require no electric hookup
Cons: No folding ramps; heavy to maneuver
4. Academy Tow Dolly: Best Value
The Academy dolly is a budget-friendly choice for light towing. We compared its specs to others; it is light and folds for easy storage. Owner feedback often mentions it works well for small cars like Honda Civics or Mazda Miatas.
But its 2,500 lb GVWR and small wheels mean it is not suitable for larger vehicles or long highway trips. If you plan to tow a compact car occasionally, this is a good value. Skip it if you need to tow a full-size sedan or SUV.
- Lightweight design at 220 lbs
- Foldable for compact storage
- Includes safety chains and reflectors
Pros: Affordable entry-level option; Easy to store and move by hand
Cons: Lower weight capacity limits vehicle options; Small wheels less stable at high speeds
5. Dolly Pro by US Cargo Control: Best for Storage
This dolly is intended for indoor or storage use, not for towing. We researched its design; it excels at repositioning vehicles in a garage. Owner feedback confirms it is handy for moving project cars or seasonal storage.
However, it lacks brakes and is not rated for road use. If you need a dolly to tow behind a truck, look elsewhere. This is best for truck owners who want a shop helper rather than a tow dolly.
- Low profile for tight spaces
- Swivel casters for maneuverability
- Painted finish with non-slip surface
Pros: Great for moving cars in a garage or shop; Compact and easy to store
Cons: Not designed for highway towing; Low weight capacity limits use
6. Rage Powersports Tow Dolly: Light Duty
The Rage dolly is a basic option for light towing. We compared its build quality; it is adequate for small cars and short trips. Owner feedback notes it works for towing ATVs or small cars but not for long hauls.
Its lightweight frame and small wheels limit stability. If you only need to tow a compact car a few miles, this might suffice. But for regular or highway use, we recommend a sturdier model.
- Lightweight at 180 lbs
- Foldable ramps for loading
- Includes tie-down hooks
Pros: Very easy to handle and store; Low cost for occasional use
Cons: Not durable for frequent heavy use; Wheels may wobble at higher speeds
7. Prorich Tow Dolly: Budget Pick
The Prorich dolly is the most budget-friendly option we evaluated. It offers basic functionality for light towing. Owner feedback is mixed, with some reporting it works fine for short trips and others noting stability issues.
Without brakes and with a lower build quality, it is not recommended for highway use or heavier vehicles. If you have a strict budget and only need to move a small car a few miles, it may be acceptable. Otherwise, invest in a higher-rated model.
- Lowest price point
- Simple design with basic tie-downs
- Folds for storage
Pros: Very affordable; Lightweight and compact
Cons: No brakes; rely on truck brakes; Build quality concerns from some owners
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a car dolly and a trailer?
A car dolly lifts the front or rear wheels of the towed vehicle while the other wheels stay on the ground. A trailer carries the entire vehicle. Dollies are lighter and easier to store but may have lower weight limits and require the towed vehicle to be in neutral.
Can I tow a front-wheel drive car on a dolly?
Yes, for front-wheel drive cars, you typically place the front wheels on the dolly and let the rear wheels roll. Always check the vehicle owner’s manual for towing recommendations. Some manufacturers specify that all four wheels must be off the ground.
Do I need brakes on a car dolly?
Brakes are recommended for dollies with a GVWR over 3,000 lbs or when towing heavy vehicles. Many states require brakes on trailers or dollies above a certain weight. Check your local regulations. Surge or electric brakes improve safety and reduce wear on your truck’s brakes.
How do I properly load a car onto a dolly?
Align the dolly ramps, drive the car slowly onto the dolly until the wheels sit in the wheel wells, then secure the vehicle with tie-down straps. Ensure the parking brake is off and the transmission is in neutral. Double-check all connections and safety chains before towing.
What is the maximum speed when towing a car dolly?
Most manufacturers recommend a maximum speed of 55 mph. Higher speeds increase the risk of sway and tire failure. Always follow the dolly’s speed rating and adjust for road conditions. Owner feedback suggests staying at or below 60 mph for stability.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing specifications, safety features, and owner feedback, our top pick is the Master Tow Dolly for its excellent stability and durable construction. The Kendon Trailer Dolly is a close runner-up, especially for those who need a tilting bed for low-clearance vehicles. Choose based on your weight needs and towing frequency.
