What Size Trailer for Golf Cart? Essential Fit Guide

Figuring out what size trailer for golf cart transport you need can feel surprisingly complex. You’ve got your cart ready to go – maybe to the campground, a different course, or a vacation home – but now you’re stuck wondering how to get it there safely and legally. Choosing the wrong size trailer isn’t just inconvenient; it can lead to unstable towing, difficulty loading, potential damage to your valuable cart, or even exceeding weight limits.

For a standard golf cart, a 5×10 utility trailer is often the ideal size, providing enough space for easy loading and secure transport. Key factors influencing this choice include the cart’s dimensions (typically 8-10 ft long, 4 ft wide) and weight (900-1100 lbs), balanced against the trailer’s capacity (GVWR).

Getting this right ensures peace of mind on the road. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from measuring your specific cart and understanding trailer dimensions to comparing trailer types and considering whether to rent or buy. We’ll break down the common sizes like 5×8, 5×10, and larger options, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific golf cart and needs.

Key Facts:
* Standard Size Recommendation: A 5×10 utility trailer is the most commonly recommended size for standard two-passenger golf carts. (Source: Ben Nelson Golf Cars)
* Average Golf Cart Weight: Most standard golf carts weigh between 900 and 1,100 pounds, crucial for determining trailer weight capacity needs. (Source: Hartville Golf Carts)
* Typical Dimensions: Standard golf carts generally measure 8-10 feet in length and around 4-6 feet in width. (Source: Hartville Golf Carts)
* The “2 Feet Longer” Rule: Experts advise choosing a trailer that is at least 2 feet longer than your golf cart for easier loading and securing. (Source: Hartville Golf Carts)
* Minimum Width: While some tight fits are possible, a minimum trailer width of 5 feet is generally needed, with 6 feet recommended for wider or modified carts. (Source: Hartville Golf Carts)

Why is Choosing the Right Trailer Size Crucial for Your Golf Cart?

Choosing the right trailer size ensures your golf cart is transported safely without risk of damage. An incorrectly sized trailer can lead to instability during transit, difficulty loading/unloading, and potential legal issues if weight limits are exceeded, making proper selection vital.

Think about it: a trailer that’s too small forces a dangerously tight fit, making loading precarious and potentially scratching or denting your cart. Worse, insufficient space might prevent you from properly securing the cart, allowing it to shift during transport – a major safety hazard.

Conversely, a trailer that’s excessively large can be harder to maneuver and tow, especially for less experienced drivers. While extra space seems good, ensuring the cart is perfectly secured becomes even more critical to prevent it from rolling or sliding within the trailer bed. Most importantly, every trailer has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Exceeding this limit by using an improperly rated trailer for your cart’s weight is illegal and puts immense strain on the trailer axles, tires, and your towing vehicle’s braking system. Selecting the correct size is fundamental for golf cart transport safety, secure transport, and protecting your investment.

What Size Trailer Do You Need for a Golf Cart?

For a standard golf cart, a 5×10 utility trailer is often ideal. Key factors include the cart’s dimensions (typically 8-10 ft long, 4 ft wide), weight (900-1100 lbs), and the trailer’s weight capacity (GVWR). Always measure your specific cart before choosing.

Determining the necessary golf cart trailer dimensions isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but we can break it down. You need to consider several core factors: the physical size of your specific golf cart (length, width, height), its weight, and the trailer’s specifications, particularly its internal dimensions and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

While the 5×10 utility trailer serves as a reliable starting point for many standard two-passenger carts, variations in cart models, accessories (like rear seats or cargo boxes), lift kits, and tire sizes can significantly alter the required trailer size. Let’s dive into the specifics.

Understanding Standard Golf Cart Dimensions

Standard golf carts are typically 8-10 feet (96-120 inches) long, about 4 feet (48 inches) wide, and 6-6.5 feet (72-78 inches) high. For example, a stock Club Car Precedent measures approximately 91 inches long x 48 inches wide x 69 inches high.

Knowing the typical standard golf cart length, width, and height provides a good baseline. However, “standard” can vary slightly between manufacturers and models. Here’s a general range:

• Length: 96 inches (8 feet) to 120 inches (10 feet). Carts with rear-facing seats or utility boxes will be on the longer end or exceed this range.
• Width: Around 48 inches (4 feet). This is a fairly consistent dimension for standard carts, but custom wheels/tires or lift kits can increase it.
• Height: Roughly 72 inches (6 feet) to 78 inches (6.5 feet). Enclosed trailers need to accommodate this, but it’s less critical for open utility trailers unless navigating low-clearance areas.

Key Takeaway: Always measure your specific cart including all accessories. Don’t rely solely on generic dimensions. Popular models like the Yamaha Drive2, Club Car Precedent, and EZ-GO RXV generally fall within these standard ranges when unmodified.

Why Trailer Width Matters

A minimum trailer width of 5 feet (60 inches) is needed for most standard golf carts. If your cart has wider tires or a lift kit, increasing its stance, you’ll likely need a trailer that is at least 6 feet (72 inches) wide for safe clearance.

Trailer width is critical for ease of loading and ensuring the cart sits securely without the tires rubbing against the trailer sides. While a standard cart is about 4 feet wide, you need extra space on either side for maneuvering and securing the vehicle.

A 5-foot wide trailer (like a 5×8 or 5×10) provides roughly 6 inches of clearance on each side for a standard 48-inch wide cart. This is generally adequate. However, if you’ve added wider offset wheels, larger tires, or a lift kit that effectively widens the track width, that clearance disappears quickly. In these cases, opting for a 6-foot wide golf cart trailer width (found in 6×10 or 6×12 trailers) is highly recommended for fitting golf cart on trailer safely.

Determining the Right Trailer Length (The “2 Feet Longer” Rule)

Your trailer should be at least 2 feet longer than your golf cart for easier loading and securing. A standard 8-foot cart usually needs a 10-foot trailer, while larger carts (around 10 feet long with rear seats) might require a 12-foot trailer.

This “2 feet longer” guideline is a widely accepted rule of thumb in the industry (mentioned by sources like Hartville Golf Carts). Why? It gives you crucial golf cart loading space. Trying to load an 8-foot cart onto an 8-foot trailer leaves zero room for error. You risk hitting the front rail when driving on or having the back end hang off precariously.

The extra two feet provides buffer space, making it much easier to drive the cart fully onto the trailer bed and position it correctly before securing it.

• Standard 2-seater (approx. 8 ft long): A 10-foot trailer (e.g., 5×10) is typically ideal.
• 4-seater/Rear Seat cart (approx. 10 ft long): A 12-foot trailer (e.g., 6×12) is often necessary.

Always measure your cart’s total length, including bumpers, rear seats, footrests, or cargo boxes, to apply this rule correctly.

Don’t Forget Weight Capacity (GVWR)

Ensure the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) significantly exceeds the golf cart’s weight (typically 900-1100 lbs plus accessories and the trailer’s own weight). Overloading a trailer is unsafe and can cause catastrophic failure.

This is arguably the most critical factor. The GVWR importance cannot be overstated. It represents the maximum total weight the trailer is designed to safely handle, including the trailer’s own empty weight (curb weight) plus the cargo (your golf cart, gear, etc. – this is the payload).

• Standard Golf Cart Weight: 900 – 1,100 lbs (approx. 410 – 500 kg).
• Electric vs. Gas: Electric carts often weigh slightly more due to batteries.
• Accessories: Lift kits, rear seats, utility boxes, larger batteries, etc., all add weight.

Look for the manufacturer’s sticker on the trailer frame, which specifies the GVWR. Subtract the trailer’s empty weight (if known, otherwise estimate generously) from the GVWR to find the maximum payload capacity. Ensure your golf cart’s weight falls comfortably below this payload limit. A typical single-axle 5×10 utility trailer might have a GVWR around 2,000-3,000 lbs, which is usually sufficient for a standard cart. However, always verify the specific trailer’s rating. Hauling golf cart weight safely depends entirely on respecting the GVWR.

Will Your Golf Cart Fit on Common Utility Trailer Sizes?

A standard golf cart might fit snugly on a 5×8 trailer, but a 5×10 is generally recommended for easier loading. Lifted carts or those with rear seats often require a 6×10 or 6×12 trailer for adequate space and width.

Now let’s look at the practicality of fitting your cart onto the most common utility trailer sizes you’ll encounter, whether renting or buying.

Can a Golf Cart Fit on a 5×8 Utility Trailer?

A standard two-passenger golf cart might fit on a 5×8 utility trailer (5 feet wide, 8 feet long), but it will be a very tight fit length-wise, potentially requiring careful positioning or backward loading. A 5×10 is generally a safer and more convenient option.

A typical golf cart 5×8 trailer scenario involves a standard cart measuring around 8 feet (96 inches) long. Technically, it could fit onto an 8-foot bed. However, this leaves absolutely no room for error during loading or positioning. You might need to load it backward, allowing the lighter front end to overhang slightly if the rear weight bias allows, or have the rear footrest hang over the front rail (as suggested by Ben Nelson Golf Cars for saving space).

The 5-foot width is usually adequate for a standard cart, but the lack of length makes the 5×8 a less-than-ideal and potentially risky choice for many. It’s often considered the absolute small trailer for golf cart use, only suitable for the most compact, standard models. Rocks Trailer Sales even suggests a minimum length of 8 feet just for the cart, implying the trailer needs to be longer.

Is a 5×10 Trailer Big Enough for a Golf Cart?

Yes, a 5×10 utility trailer (5 feet wide, 10 feet long) is typically the ideal size for transporting a standard two-passenger golf cart. It provides sufficient length and width for secure loading and transport without being overly large.

The 5×10 trailer for golf cart use is the sweet spot for most standard situations. The 10-foot length comfortably accommodates an 8-foot cart, adhering to the “2 feet longer” rule, making loading significantly easier and safer than a 5×8. The 5-foot width works well for standard-width carts.

This size offers a good balance: enough space for the cart without the bulk and potentially higher cost or towing difficulty of a larger trailer. It’s widely regarded as the standard golf cart trailer size for good reason and is readily available for rent or purchase. Its 5×10 utility trailer capacity (GVWR) is usually well-suited for a single cart.

When Do You Need a 6-Foot Wide Trailer (6×10 or 6×12)?

You typically need a 6-foot wide trailer (like a 6×10 or 6×12) if you have a lifted golf cart, one with a rear-facing seat kit, wider custom tires, or other modifications that increase its overall footprint beyond standard dimensions.

If your golf cart isn’t “standard,” you’ll likely need to upsize your trailer. Here’s when a 6-foot width becomes necessary:

• Lifted Golf Carts: Lift kits often widen the stance slightly, and the larger tires frequently used with them definitely increase width. A trailer for lifted golf cart use needs that extra clearance.
• 4-Seater Golf Carts / Rear Seats: While the primary issue here is length (often requiring a 12-foot trailer), some wider 4-seater models or configurations might also benefit from the extra width of a 6-foot trailer. A trailer for 4 seater golf cart needs careful measurement.
• Wider Tires/Wheels: Aftermarket wheels with different offsets or significantly wider tires will push the overall width beyond the standard 4 feet, necessitating a 6-foot wide trailer (like a 6×10 trailer golf cart setup or a 6×12 trailer golf cart setup).
• Utility Vehicles/Side-by-Sides: Some larger UTVs often mistaken for golf carts are considerably wider and heavier, requiring larger trailers.

A 6×10 trailer golf cart configuration provides extra width clearance, while a 6×12 trailer golf cart setup offers both extra width and the length needed for longer carts (like those with rear seats).

How Do You Accurately Measure Your Golf Cart for a Trailer?

Measure your golf cart’s overall length (bumper-to-bumper, including rear seats/footrests), widest point (usually outside of tires or fender flares), and highest point (roof or top of enclosure). Use a tape measure and record these exact dimensions to ensure trailer compatibility.

Don’t guess! Accurate measuring golf cart for trailer purposes is non-negotiable. Grab a tape measure and follow these steps:

1. Measure Overall Length: Place the tape measure at the very front point (e.g., front bumper or basket) and extend it to the absolute rearmost point (e.g., rear bumper, bag holder, rear seat footrest). Record this measure golf cart length.
2. Measure Overall Width: Identify the widest part of your cart. This is often the outside bulge of the rear tires, but could be fender flares or side mirrors. Measure across this widest point. Record this measure golf cart width.
3. Measure Overall Height: Measure from the ground to the highest point of the cart, typically the roof or the top of any enclosure. This is mainly important if considering an enclosed trailer.
4. Note Accessories: Pay attention to anything that adds significant dimension or weight – rear seats, utility boxes, large tires, lift kits, windshields, enclosures.

Tip: Measure twice to be sure! Having these precise golf cart dimensions measurement figures is essential when comparing trailer specifications.

Open Utility vs. Enclosed Trailer: Which is Better for Your Golf Cart?

Open utility trailers are common, versatile, and affordable for golf carts. Enclosed trailers offer superior protection from weather, road debris, and theft but are significantly heavier, costlier, and can be harder to tow. Choose based on transport distance, frequency, weather conditions, security needs, and budget.

The debate between open vs enclosed trailer types depends heavily on your priorities.

• Open Utility Trailers:
  • Pros: Lighter weight, lower cost, easier loading visibility, better fuel economy for the tow vehicle, versatile for hauling other items. The most common utility trailer golf cart solution.
  • Cons: Cart is exposed to weather (sun, rain, hail), road debris (rocks, dirt), and potential theft or vandalism. Requires careful securing.
• Enclosed Trailers:
  • Pros: Excellent protection from elements and debris, enhanced security against theft, can double as storage. Ideal for long distances or valuable/custom carts.
  • Cons: Much higher purchase price, significantly heavier (requiring a more capable tow vehicle and impacting fuel economy), potentially reduced visibility while towing, requires consideration of interior height and ramp door clearance. An enclosed trailer for golf cart transport is a bigger investment.
• Flatbed Trailers: Less common for single golf carts but offer maximum loading flexibility, though minimal side protection.

For most casual users making occasional, relatively short trips, an open utility trailer (like a 5×10) is perfectly adequate and cost-effective. If you frequently transport your cart long distances, live in harsh weather climates, need high security, or have a very expensive custom cart, the benefits of an enclosed trailer might outweigh the drawbacks.

Renting vs. Buying a Golf Cart Trailer: What to Consider

Rent a trailer (like a U-Haul 5×9 utility or similar) for infrequent, short-term moves. Buying is more cost-effective for regular transport but requires upfront investment, storage space, insurance, and ongoing maintenance. Consider how often you’ll need to move your golf cart and weigh the long-term costs.

The rent trailer for golf cart versus buying golf cart trailer decision hinges on frequency of use and budget.

• Renting:
  • Pros: Lower upfront cost for occasional use, no storage required, no maintenance responsibility, readily available from places like U-Haul. A popular option is U-Haul trailer for golf cart transport.
  • Cons: Can become expensive if renting frequently, availability might be limited during peak seasons, trailer quality/condition can vary, may not have the exact perfect size.
• Buying:
  • Pros: Cost-effective for frequent use (pays for itself over time), always available when needed, you choose the exact size and features, can potentially be used for other hauling tasks.
  • Cons: Significant initial purchase cost, requires space for storage, needs regular maintenance (tires, lights, bearings), requires insurance and registration (depending on location).

Tip: If you only move your cart once or twice a year, renting is likely the smarter financial choice. If you transport it monthly or more often, the cost and convenience of owning usually win out.

Using U-Haul for Golf Cart Transport

U-Haul’s 5×9 utility trailer with a ramp (model AR/RT) can often fit a standard golf cart, though the 55-inch width might be snug, especially for carts near 48 inches wide. Always confirm your cart’s dimensions against the trailer’s internal measurements (approx. 108″ L x 55″ W) before renting.

Many people ask, “what size U-Haul for golf cart transport is needed?” The most likely candidate is their 5×9 Utility Trailer with Ramp. Key specs to consider:

• Bed Dimensions: Approximately 9 feet (108 inches) long x 4 feet 7 inches (55 inches) wide.
• Ramp: Included for easy loading.
• Capacity: Check the specific trailer’s payload capacity, but it’s generally sufficient for a standard golf cart.

Will a golf cart fit in a 5×9 U-Haul trailer? For a standard 8-foot long, 4-foot (48 inches) wide cart, the length is adequate (following the older 1-foot buffer idea rather than the preferred 2-foot rule). The width (55 inches) provides about 3.5 inches of clearance on each side for a 48-inch cart, which is tight but usually manageable. If your cart is wider than standard or you prefer more loading clearance, this trailer might be too snug. Always double-check measurements.

What Are Other Important Considerations When Choosing a Trailer?

Beyond basic dimensions, consider trailer features like ramp type/length for easy loading, suspension (leaf spring vs. torsion axle) for ride smoothness, adequate tie-down points for security, and potential loading orientation adjustments for tight fits.

Choosing the right size is paramount, but other trailer features significantly impact usability and safety:

• Ramp Gate/Loading Ramps: A full-width ramp gate is often the easiest for driving a golf cart on. Some trailers have stowable ramps. Ensure the ramp is long enough for a gentle incline and strong enough to support the cart’s weight.
• Tie-Down Points: Look for multiple sturdy D-rings or anchor points welded or bolted to the frame/floor. You’ll need at least four points for properly securing golf cart on trailer using straps.
• Suspension: Leaf spring suspension is common and robust. Torsion axles generally offer a smoother ride and require less maintenance but can be more expensive. Consider the trailer suspension types based on your typical towing distances and road conditions.
• Axle Configuration: Single axle trailers are common for lighter loads like a single golf cart. Tandem axles (two axles) offer higher weight capacity and better stability, typically needed for heavier loads or multiple carts.
• Brakes: Smaller utility trailers often don’t have brakes (relying on the tow vehicle). Larger trailers (often those with GVWR over 3,000 lbs) may have electric or surge brakes, which significantly improve stopping power and safety. Check local regulations regarding trailer brake requirements.
• Tire Quality and Size: Ensure the trailer tires are rated for the load and highway speeds (ST – Special Trailer tires). Check tire pressure and condition regularly.

Considering these factors alongside size ensures you get a trailer that is not only compatible but also safe and convenient for your specific golf cart transport needs.

Loading Orientation for Tight Fits

Sometimes, especially with shorter trailers like a 5×8, you might need to adjust your loading golf cart backward. As mentioned by Ben Nelson Golf Cars, loading the heavier rear end (where batteries/engine often are) towards the front of the trailer can improve weight distribution and stability.

If space is extremely tight length-wise, letting the golf cart overhang slightly might be necessary. For example, the rear seat footrest might hang over the front rail of the trailer. This should only be done if absolutely necessary and if the cart can still be securely fastened without excessive stress on the overhanging part. Prioritizing a correctly sized trailer avoids these compromises.

Trailer Suspension Systems

The two main trailer suspension types are Leaf Spring and Torsion Axle:

• Leaf Spring: The traditional, simpler system using stacked curved springs. It’s generally durable, less expensive, and easier to repair. However, it can provide a rougher ride compared to torsion axles.
• Torsion Axle: Uses rubber cords inside a square tube attached directly to the frame. Offers a smoother, more independent ride, quieter operation, and typically lower maintenance. However, they are usually more expensive upfront and repairs can be more involved.

For most standard golf cart hauling, leaf springs are perfectly adequate. If you prioritize ride quality or tow frequently on varied terrain, the upgrade to a torsion axle might be worthwhile.

FAQs About What Size Trailer for Golf Cart

How big a trailer do I need for a golf cart?

Generally, a 5×10 utility trailer is recommended for a standard two-passenger golf cart. This provides adequate length (following the “2 feet longer” rule for an 8-foot cart) and width. Measure your specific cart, especially if it has modifications like rear seats or lift kits, as you might need a longer (12 ft) or wider (6 ft) trailer.

Will a golf cart fit in a 5×8 utility trailer?

A standard golf cart might fit, but it will be extremely tight length-wise (96 inches cart vs 96 inches trailer). It leaves no room for error during loading and may require backward loading or slight overhang. A 5×10 trailer is a much safer and more convenient option for most standard carts.

What size U-Haul trailer do I need for a golf cart?

The U-Haul 5×9 utility trailer with a ramp is the most commonly used option. Its internal dimensions (approx. 108″ L x 55″ W) can accommodate many standard golf carts, although the width is somewhat tight. Always verify your cart’s measurements against the trailer specs before renting.

Will a golf cart fit in a 5×9 U-Haul trailer?

Yes, a standard golf cart (approx. 8 ft long, 4 ft wide) will likely fit in a U-Haul 5×9 trailer. The 9-foot length is adequate, and the 55-inch width provides minimal but usually sufficient clearance side-to-side for a standard 48-inch wide cart. Measure your cart to be certain, especially if it’s wider than standard.

What are the dimensions of a standard golf cart?

Standard golf carts are typically 8-10 feet (96-120 inches) long, about 4 feet (48 inches) wide, and 6-6.5 feet (72-78 inches) tall. Dimensions vary slightly by make and model, and accessories like rear seats will increase length.

Do I need a special trailer for a lifted golf cart?

Often, yes. You’ll likely need a wider trailer, typically 6 feet (72 inches) wide, because lift kits and the associated larger/wider tires increase the cart’s overall width and stance. A 6×10 or 6×12 trailer is commonly needed for lifted carts to ensure proper clearance.

What size trailer is needed for a 4-seater golf cart?

A 4-seater golf cart usually requires a longer trailer, typically 12 feet long (like a 5×12 or 6×12). This accommodates the extra length added by the rear-facing seat assembly (often bringing total cart length to around 10 feet). A 6-foot width might also be preferable depending on the specific model’s width.

How much does a golf cart weigh for trailering?

Most standard golf carts weigh between 900 and 1,100 pounds. Electric carts are often slightly heavier than gas carts due to battery weight. Always check your specific model’s weight and factor in accessories when ensuring your trailer’s payload capacity (GVWR minus trailer weight) is sufficient.

What’s the difference between an open and enclosed golf cart trailer?

An open trailer exposes the cart to the elements but is lighter and cheaper. An enclosed trailer offers protection from weather/theft but is heavier, more expensive, and requires more towing capacity. Choose based on your transport needs, budget, and security concerns.

Is a 5×10 utility trailer the best size for a golf cart?

For a standard two-passenger golf cart, a 5×10 utility trailer is widely considered the best all-around size. It offers a good balance of space, ease of loading, maneuverability, and cost-effectiveness. However, modified or larger carts will require different sizes.

Can I use a small utility trailer for a golf cart?

Yes, but define “small.” A 5×8 is the absolute minimum and often too tight. A 5×10 is generally the recommended starting point. Always prioritize having at least 2 feet of extra length beyond your cart and sufficient width and weight capacity (GVWR).

Summary: Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right trailer involves measuring your cart accurately (length, width, height, weight), considering any modifications (lift kits, rear seats), and selecting a trailer that is ideally at least 2 feet longer than the cart (often a 5×10 for standard carts, potentially a 6×10 or 6×12 for larger/modified ones). Crucially, always verify the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is sufficient for your cart’s weight.

Selecting the correct what size trailer for golf cart transport boils down to careful measurement and understanding the key factors:

1. Measure Your Cart: Get precise length, width, and weight figures for your specific golf cart, including all accessories.
2. Apply the “2 Feet Longer” Rule: Choose a trailer bed at least 2 feet longer than your cart’s overall length.
3. Ensure Adequate Width: Standard carts need at least 5 feet; wider carts (lifted, custom tires) need 6 feet.
4. Verify GVWR: Confirm the trailer’s weight capacity significantly exceeds your cart’s weight plus the trailer’s empty weight.
5. Consider Trailer Type: Open utility trailers are standard; enclosed trailers offer protection at a higher cost and weight.
6. Factor in Features: Ramps, tie-down points, and suspension type affect usability and safety.
7. Rent vs. Buy: Rent for occasional use; buy for frequent transport.

By following these steps and considering the common trailer sizes discussed (5×8, 5×10, 6×10, 6×12), you can confidently select a trailer that ensures safe, secure, and stress-free transportation for your golf cart.

Got questions about your specific setup or experiences hauling a golf cart? Share them in the comments below!