Choosing the right trailer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when building a tiny house. Since the trailer serves as the foundation of your home, it needs to be reliable, sturdy, and appropriate for your design. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process of selecting the best trailer for your tiny house build.

1. Trailer Types

There are several types of trailers to consider for tiny houses:

• Deck-Over Trailers: These have the deck above the wheels, offering a wider building surface. However, they sit higher off the ground, which can reduce ceiling height inside your tiny home.
• Drop-Axle Trailers: These trailers have axles that sit lower than the trailer bed, giving you more headroom inside while keeping the overall height down. However, you may need to adjust for wheel wells in your floor plan.
• Gooseneck Trailers: Ideal for longer tiny homes, gooseneck trailers attach to a truck bed and allow for more stability when towing. They also offer extra space in the area above the gooseneck, which can be used for a sleeping loft or storage.

2. Weight Capacity

The weight of your tiny house is another critical factor. You’ll need to estimate the weight of your completed home, including everything inside it, to choose a trailer with the proper weight rating. Most tiny house trailers range from 10,000 to 20,000 pounds in Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

• For smaller builds (100-200 square feet), a trailer with a 10,000-12,000-pound GVWR should suffice.
• Larger builds (200-400 square feet) may require trailers rated for 14,000-20,000 pounds.

Choosing a trailer with a higher weight capacity than you think you’ll need provides a safety buffer and ensures you’re not overloading the frame.

3. Length and Width

Trailers for tiny houses come in various lengths, typically between 16 to 32 feet. Longer trailers allow for more space but can be more difficult to tow and park.

• 16 to 20 feet: Best for a minimalist build, providing enough space for essential living areas but may feel cramped for more than one person.
• 24 to 30 feet: Offers a good balance between space and maneuverability. Ideal for couples or individuals who want a bit more comfort.
• 32+ feet: Great for families or those who need more room, but keep in mind that the longer the trailer, the more challenging it can be to transport.

The width of most trailers is restricted by legal limits, with the standard width being 8.5 feet to avoid needing special permits for towing.

4. Material and Durability

The trailer needs to withstand the weight of the house and all the bumps of the road if you plan to move your tiny house frequently. Most trailers are made from steel, which offers the strength and durability necessary for this kind of build.

Look for trailers with a dual-axle or triple-axle design for added stability and weight distribution, especially for larger homes. Galvanized steel is also a good choice as it resists rust, making it more durable in the long term.

5. Trailer Features

Consider additional features that could make your build smoother:

• Brakes and Lights: Make sure the trailer is equipped with electric brakes and proper lighting for safe towing.
• Adjustable Hitch Height: An adjustable hitch makes it easier to pair the trailer with different tow vehicles.
• Tie-down Points: Trailers with built-in tie-down points make it easier to secure the tiny house structure during transport.

6. Cost

Trailers are one of the most expensive components of a tiny house build. Prices can range from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on size, material, and features. It’s worth investing in a high-quality trailer since cutting corners here can lead to issues down the road—literally.

Final Thoughts

Your trailer is the foundation of your tiny house, so choosing wisely is essential. Consider the size of your build, weight capacity, and your lifestyle needs (e.g., will you move your tiny house frequently, or will it stay put most of the time?). With the right trailer, you’ll have a strong, safe base for your tiny home that can handle both the open road and stationary living.