Choosing what size trailer for a golf cart depends on several important factors, including the cart’s dimensions, weight, seating capacity, and added accessories. Most standard golf carts fit comfortably on a 5×10 or 5×12 trailer, while larger lifted or four-passenger models often require a 6×12 trailer for safer loading and better transport stability. In this guide, we’ll cover the key things to consider before selecting the right golf cart trailer.
Consider the Dimensions of Your Golf Cart
Have you measured your golf cart recently? Knowing the dimensions of your cart is step number one to getting the right size trailer. You’ll want ample space, so make sure you know the exact height, length, and width of your golf cart. Standard golf carts are between 4 and 6 feet wide and 8 and 10 feet long. Some models, especially those with additional seating or accessories, may be even longer than 10 feet. The going rule of thumb is to choose a trailer at least 2 feet longer than your golf cart. This will help with loading and unloading.
Trailer Width: Ensuring a Secure Fit
Many golf cart trailers are available in widths between 5 and 6 feet. This is suitable for most standard golf carts. If you have a golf cart with a wider stance or want to transport multiple golf carts, you will want a trailer at least 7 feet wide. This is also a good recommendation for someone worried about stability during transportation.
Common Trailer Sizes for Golf Carts
Most standard two-passenger golf carts fit comfortably on a 5×10 or 5×12 trailer. Larger four-passenger or lifted golf carts often require a 6×12 trailer to provide additional loading space and safer weight distribution during transport.
Golf carts with oversized tires, rear seats, cargo boxes, or street-legal accessories may also require wider trailers for proper clearance and stability. Choosing a slightly larger trailer often improves loading safety and maneuverability.
Single Axle vs Tandem Axle Golf Cart Trailers
The length and style of the trailer will depend on whether you are transporting a single golf cart or multiple golf carts. For a single cart, a trailer length of 10-12 feet is ideal. If you plan to haul more carts or equipment, consider a tandem-axle trailer. This offers more length and a better weight rating.
Weight Capacity: Don’t Overlook This Crucial Factor
While golf cart size is quite important, trailer weight rating is the most important factor here. Your trailer must be able to comfortably handle the weight of your golf cart and any equipment you plan to haul along. Standard golf carts weigh between 900 and 1,100 pounds. Heavier models commonly exceed this. Every trailer should have a posted GVWR(gross vehicle weight rating). This will help you identify how much you can safely pull on the trailer.
Can a Golf Cart Fit on a 5×8 Trailer?
Some smaller golf carts may fit on a 5×8 trailer, but this setup usually leaves very little room for safe loading and tie-down placement. Most golf cart owners prefer at least a 5×10 trailer for improved stability, safer loading angles, and additional cargo space.
Lifted golf carts and four-passenger models generally require larger trailers to avoid clearance issues during transport.
Flatbed vs Utility vs Enclosed Golf Cart Trailers
Different trailer styles work better for different golf cart hauling needs. Flatbed trailers provide easy access for loading and are commonly used for short-distance golf cart transportation. Utility trailers offer additional versatility and side rails for securing carts and equipment. Enclosed golf cart trailers provide the most protection from weather, road debris, and theft, making them popular for custom or street-legal golf carts.
Choosing the right trailer style often depends on how frequently the golf cart will be transported, storage preferences, and travel distance.
Compare different trailers for safety features, such as breakaway brakes and surge brakes
When it comes to towing a trailer, safety features are essential for a smooth, secure journey. One of the most crucial safety features is the brake system. There are two distinct types of brake systems used on trailers: breakaway brakes and surge brakes. Breakaway brakes activate when the trailer becomes detached from the tow vehicle, preventing it from careening out of control. Surge brakes, on the other hand, activate when the tow vehicle slows down, communicating with the trailer brakes to prevent the trailer from pushing forward. Both of these brake systems provide much-needed safety measures while towing a trailer, ensuring a safe and secure journey for both the driver and other road users. It’s essential to consider these features when choosing a trailer, and always make sure they’re working correctly before embarking on any journey.
Choosing the Right Hitch Size
Choose whatever is best for your hauling vehicle, but most golf cart trailers use a 2-inch hitch. This is compatible with most hauling setups. Make sure you check out the specs to confirm the appropriate hitch size before driving off. You want to increase the chances that you have no hiccups while on the road.
Enclosed vs Open Golf Cart Trailers
Open golf cart trailers are lighter, easier to tow, and commonly used for short-distance transportation. Enclosed golf cart trailers provide added protection from weather, road debris, and theft, making them popular for long-distance hauling or custom golf carts with expensive upgrades.
Choosing between open and enclosed trailers often depends on storage needs, travel distance, and how frequently the golf cart will be transported.
Concluding
With a few pieces of information and some research, you are now prepared to find the best trailer for your golf cart. From considering the size and weight of your golf cart to finding an appropriate length and width, there are many factors to consider when shopping around for the perfect trailer. Be sure to compare all types of trailers as well as safety features such as breakaway brakes or surge brakes. Knowing the right hitch size for your vehicle is also important, so pay attention to it when comparing different trailers. Finally, decide which type of suspension you want – leaf springs, torsion axles, or rubber suspension systems – based on terrain and power options. With these tips in mind, you can make an informed decision when buying a new trailer for your golf cart!
