Cargo trailers are one of the most practical towing accessories you can add to your vehicle setup, whether you are hauling equipment for a job site, moving furniture across town, or transporting ATVs and motorcycles on a long trip. The right trailer can save you hundreds of dollars in delivery fees and give you freedom to haul on your own schedule.
We researched and compared dozens of cargo trailers currently available on Amazon, evaluating buyer reviews, build quality, payload ratings, hitch compatibility, and overall value to bring you this honest comparison of six top-rated options across budget, mid-range, and premium tiers. This guide covers everything from lightweight open utility trailers to robust enclosed cargo carriers, so you can find the right fit for your tow vehicle and hauling needs.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
|
🚗
|
Reese Towpower 20343 Carry-On Utility Trailer Best Overall 1,195 lb payload, 5 ft x 8 ft deck, 1-7/8 in ball |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Apex Steel Mesh Utility Trailer Kit Best Budget Pick 1,000 lb capacity, 4 ft x 6 ft deck, mesh floor |
7.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Detail K2 OFD510 Heavy Duty Utility Trailer Best Heavy Duty Open Trailer 1,500 lb payload, 5 ft x 10 ft deck, 2 in ball |
8.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
MaxxHaul 70108 Foldable Aluminum Trailer Best Foldable Storage 1,000 lb capacity, 4 ft x 8 ft fold-flat design |
8.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Carry-On Trailer 5 x 8 Enclosed Cargo Trailer Best Enclosed Option 1,500 lb payload, 5 ft x 8 ft enclosed, rear ramp door |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Ironton Folding Utility Trailer Best Lightweight Folder 750 lb capacity, 4.5 ft x 8 ft, quick-fold frame |
7.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Reese Towpower 20343 Carry-On Utility Trailer: Best Overall
The Reese Towpower 20343 is one of the most consistently well-reviewed open utility trailers on Amazon, earning its spot as our top overall pick through a combination of sturdy build quality, a generous payload rating, and broad hitch compatibility. The fold-flat stake sides give you flexibility to carry lumber, furniture, landscaping equipment, and more, and the no-flat tires mean one less thing to worry about on the road.
The main weakness buyers report is the assembly process, which can be time-consuming and the included instructions leave room for improvement. This is a mid-range priced trailer that delivers premium performance for light-to-medium hauling tasks, making it an excellent value for homeowners, contractors, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Steel tube frame with durable powder coat finish
- Fold-flat sides for versatile loading options
- Class I or II hitch compatible, no-flat tires included
Pros: Solid steel construction holds up to regular use; Fold-flat sides make it easy to carry tall or bulky items
Cons: Assembly can take two or more hours and instructions are not always clear
2. Apex Steel Mesh Utility Trailer Kit: Best Budget Pick
The Apex Steel Mesh Utility Trailer is a budget-friendly option that gets the job done for lighter hauling tasks. The open mesh floor design works well for hauling yard waste, landscaping materials, and large items, but buyers should note that smaller objects can slip through the mesh, requiring a tarp or plywood insert for versatile use. The compact footprint makes this a great fit for smaller tow vehicles.
At the budget tier, you do sacrifice payload capacity and overall deck space compared to larger mid-range options. Hardware quality has received some criticism in buyer reviews, so expect to apply threadlocker to key bolts after assembly. For occasional weekend use where a full-size trailer is overkill, this is a practical and affordable choice.
- Compact 4 x 6 ft size ideal for small vehicles
- Steel mesh floor allows drainage and ventilation
- Works with standard 1-7/8 in ball hitch
Pros: Very affordable entry point for occasional haulers; Compact size is easy to store and maneuver
Cons: Mesh floor is not suitable for small items that can fall through
3. Detail K2 OFD510 Heavy Duty Utility Trailer: Best Heavy Duty Open Trailer
The Detail K2 OFD510 steps up from entry-level trailers with a full 5 x 10 ft deck and a torsion axle that delivers a noticeably smoother tow compared to basic leaf spring setups. The heavier gauge steel frame inspires confidence when hauling dense materials like mulch, firewood, or power equipment. Buyers in the contractor segment in particular appreciate the reinforced tailgate that holds up to frequent loading and unloading cycles.
The trade-off is the trailer’s own weight, which means lighter crossover SUVs and small trucks may be pushing their tow rating limits. This sits in the mid-range pricing tier and represents strong value if your tow vehicle can comfortably handle the tongue weight. Overall build quality earns consistent praise in buyer reviews, though some users note that the wheel bearings benefit from early inspection and regreasing before first use.
- Larger 5 x 10 ft deck suits bulky loads
- Heavy gauge steel frame and reinforced tailgate
- Torsion axle for smoother towing and reduced maintenance
Pros: Higher payload capacity covers most homeowner and contractor needs; Torsion axle improves ride quality versus leaf spring designs
Cons: Heavier trailer weight requires a more capable tow vehicle
4. MaxxHaul 70108 Foldable Aluminum Trailer: Best Foldable Storage
The MaxxHaul 70108 earns its place for buyers who value storage convenience as much as hauling performance. The fold-flat design means this trailer can hang on a garage wall or slide under a workbench, eliminating the need for a dedicated trailer parking spot. The aluminum construction keeps overall weight down and makes it resistant to corrosion, which is a real advantage in humid or coastal environments.
The compromise is the 1,000 lb payload cap, which limits this to lighter tasks like hauling kayaks, camping gear, or small appliances. Buyers who try to use it for heavy landscaping loads or dense materials quickly run into its limits. At a mid-range price point, this is best suited to occasional users with limited storage space, not those who need a workhorse trailer for demanding regular use.
- Folds flat for garage storage when not in use
- Lightweight aluminum frame reduces tongue weight
- Quick assembly and disassembly without tools
Pros: Exceptionally compact storage footprint is a major convenience win; Aluminum frame resists rust in wet climates
Cons: Lower payload rating limits it to lighter loads only
5. Carry-On Trailer 5 x 8 Enclosed Cargo Trailer: Best Enclosed Option
An enclosed cargo trailer solves the problem of rain, road spray, and theft exposure that open utility trailers simply cannot address. The Carry-On Trailer 5 x 8 enclosed model brings those benefits in a compact package with a galvanized steel skin that resists rust even after years of outdoor parking. The rear ramp door is a standout feature for anyone moving motorcycles, riding mowers, or power wheelchairs, eliminating the need for a separate loading ramp.
The downside is weight. The enclosed shell adds significant mass over an open trailer, which means your tow vehicle needs to be rated for the additional tongue weight. This is a premium tier product and priced accordingly, but for buyers who regularly haul weather-sensitive cargo or want to keep tools and equipment locked during transit, the investment is well justified. A few buyers note the door seals should be checked and resealed after one season of heavy use.
- Fully enclosed design protects cargo from weather
- Rear ramp door for easy loading of wheeled equipment
- Galvanized steel construction for long-term durability
Pros: Weather protection makes it suitable for year-round use; Rear ramp is a practical feature for motorcycles and power equipment
Cons: Significantly heavier than open trailers of the same deck size
6. Ironton Folding Utility Trailer: Best Lightweight Folder
The Ironton Folding Utility Trailer targets buyers who need a trailer occasionally and prioritize storage simplicity above all else. Folding the unit down takes just a few minutes and the result fits easily in a standard garage bay alongside a vehicle. The 750 lb payload covers kayaks, coolers, generators, and camping setups without difficulty, which covers the majority of recreational use cases.
Where the Ironton shows its budget-tier pricing is in build robustness. Several buyers in reviews note that the floor boards and frame connectors feel less substantial compared to mid-range options, and the payload rating should be treated as a firm ceiling rather than a guideline. For light recreational use on an infrequent basis, this is an acceptable and affordable solution. Anyone who plans regular heavy loads should invest in a higher-rated trailer rather than risk overloading this unit.
- Folds for compact storage in under 5 minutes
- 750 lb rating covers camping and recreational gear
- Compatible with standard 1-7/8 in ball hitches
Pros: Extremely easy to fold and store between uses; Good entry point for infrequent haulers on a strict budget
Cons: Lower payload and less robust construction than heavier trailers
Frequently Asked Questions
What size cargo trailer do I need for most household moves?
For moving furniture and household goods, a 5 ft x 8 ft or 5 ft x 10 ft enclosed or open trailer covers most needs for a studio or one-bedroom apartment. Larger homes typically need a 6 x 12 ft or bigger enclosed trailer. When in doubt, size up, since an underfilled trailer is far safer than an overloaded one. Always verify your tow vehicle’s rated payload and tongue weight limits before renting or buying a trailer.
Do I need a special hitch for a cargo trailer?
Most light-to-medium cargo trailers use a standard 1-7/8 in or 2 in ball hitch, which is a Class I, II, or III receiver depending on the trailer’s gross weight rating. If your vehicle does not already have a hitch installed, you will need to add a receiver hitch and a ball mount. Make sure your vehicle’s tow rating exceeds the trailer’s fully loaded gross weight and that your trailer connector plug matches your vehicle’s wiring harness.
Is it better to buy or rent a cargo trailer?
Renting makes sense if you haul cargo only once or twice a year. If you find yourself renting three or more times annually, buying a trailer typically pays for itself within two to three years. Buying also gives you convenience since the trailer is ready when you need it without planning around rental availability. Storage space is the main practical consideration since even a compact folding trailer needs somewhere to live between uses.
What is the maximum speed I should tow a cargo trailer?
Most trailer and vehicle manufacturers recommend a maximum towing speed of 55 to 65 mph on highways. Driving faster increases sway risk, especially with lighter trailers that are more susceptible to crosswind and passing truck turbulence. Always stay in the right lane on multi-lane roads, allow extra stopping distance, and reduce speed significantly in wet or windy conditions. Check your specific vehicle owner manual for the recommended maximum towing speed.
Can an SUV tow a cargo trailer?
Yes, most mid-size and full-size SUVs can tow cargo trailers, but you must check your specific vehicle’s tow rating first. Compact SUVs often have tow ratings in the 1,500 to 2,000 lb range, which is sufficient for light utility trailers. Mid-size and full-size SUVs with trailer packages commonly handle 3,500 to 7,500 lbs, which opens up enclosed trailers and heavier loads. Never exceed your vehicle’s stated tow and tongue weight limits, as doing so risks drivetrain damage and loss of vehicle control.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing these six options, the Reese Towpower 20343 Carry-On Utility Trailer earns the top pick for most buyers thanks to its balance of payload capacity, build quality, and broad compatibility with common hitch setups. It handles the widest range of hauling tasks at a mid-range price without asking you to overpay for features you may not need. For buyers who specifically need weather protection and security for their cargo, the Carry-On Trailer 5 x 8 Enclosed is the clear runner-up, bringing genuine year-round utility with its galvanized steel construction and integrated ramp door. Budget buyers who haul occasionally and have tight storage constraints will find the Ironton Folding Utility Trailer an acceptable starting point, provided they respect its lower payload ceiling.
