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Best Trailers for Towing Family Cars in the UK

Towing a family car isn’t something most people do every day — but when you need to move a vehicle safely, choosing the right trailer makes all the difference. Whether it’s a breakdown, a classic car purchase, or transporting a second car, finding the best trailers for towing family cars in the UK comes down to safety, weight limits and ease of use.

This guide explains the best trailer types for towing family cars, what to look for, and how to choose the right option for UK roads.


What Type of Trailer Is Best for Towing a Family Car?

Most family cars require a car transport trailer, sometimes called a car transporter. These are purpose-built trailers designed to carry vehicles securely and legally.

The best options typically include:

  • Braked axles

  • Integrated loading ramps

  • Multiple tie-down points

  • Adequate deck length and width

Avoid using flatbeds or general-purpose trailers unless they are specifically rated for vehicle transport.



1️⃣ Braked Car Transport Trailers (Best Overall Choice)

Braked car transport trailers are the best and safest option for towing family cars in the UK.

Why they’re ideal:

  • Designed for heavier loads

  • Improved stopping power

  • Better stability at motorway speeds

  • Legal compliance for most family cars

Most modern family cars weigh between 1,200kg and 1,800kg, which means a braked trailer is usually essential.

Best for: Hatchbacks, saloons, estates, SUVs and electric vehicles.


2️⃣ Single-Axle vs Twin-Axle Trailers

Single-Axle Car Trailers

  • Lighter and easier to manoeuvre

  • Suitable for smaller family cars

  • Often cheaper to hire or buy

Twin-Axle Car Trailers

  • Better weight distribution

  • Increased stability

  • Ideal for heavier vehicles

If you’re towing a larger family car or SUV, a twin-axle trailer is often the better and safer choice.


3️⃣ Open vs Enclosed Car Trailers

Open Car Transport Trailers

  • Most common in the UK

  • Easier loading

  • More affordable

  • Widely available for hire

Enclosed Car Trailers

  • Extra protection from weather and debris

  • Higher cost

  • More commonly used for prestige or classic cars

For most family cars, an open braked car transporter is more than sufficient.


Key Things to Check Before Towing a Family Car

Before choosing a trailer, always check:

Ignoring these checks can lead to unsafe towing and legal issues.


Safety Tips for Towing Family Cars on a Trailer

  • Use proper wheel straps or rated tie-downs

  • Secure all four wheels

  • Check tyre pressures on both trailer and tow vehicle

  • Test brakes and lights before setting off

  • Recheck straps after the first 10–15 minutes

A correctly loaded car transporter should feel stable and predictable when towing.


Hire or Buy a Trailer for Towing a Family Car?

  • You only need it once or twice

  • You’re moving a car short-term

  • You don’t have storage space

  • You regularly move vehicles

  • You buy and sell cars

  • You want long-term convenience

Through Brent, you can hire or buy car transport trailers across the UK, making it easy to compare options, check availability and book online with confidence.

👉 Visit Brent to find car trailers suitable for towing family cars near you.


Find the Right Car Trailer on Brent

Brent connects you with trusted sellers and hire outlets, helping you:

  • Compare car transport trailers

  • Find local availability

  • Hire or buy online

  • Tow safely and legally

Whether you’re moving a small hatchback or a larger family SUV, choosing the right trailer ensures a smoother, safer journey.

-Brent


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