Need to move a car? Think about using a tow dolly or an auto transport service. Both have good points and bad points. It’s key to know what sets them apart.
A tow dolly lifts your car’s front wheels. It keeps the back wheels on the road. But auto transport moves your whole car on a large trailer. Soon, we’ll talk about what each choice means for you.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing between a tow dolly and auto transport requires understanding the pros and cons of each option.
- A tow dolly lifts the front wheels of your car, while auto transport hauls your entire vehicle on a trailer.
- Consider factors like cost, vehicle compatibility, and distance before making a decision.
- Car trailers are suitable for long-distance moves and can handle heavier vehicles, while tow dollies are more affordable and suitable for shorter distances.
- Explore other methods of auto transport, such as hiring a professional company or using Amtrak’s Auto Train, to find the best option for your specific needs.
What is a Car Trailer and How Does it Work?
A car trailer carries cars from place to place. It lifts up your car so you can move it somewhere else. You can haul your car fully on the trailer with all wheels up. This way, your car has less damage while being moved.
Car trailers can carry lots of car types like sedans and SUVs. They can support big cars with up to 5,290 lbs weight. This makes sure your car moves safely and securely.
To load a car on a trailer, you use a ramp. The car then gets tied down to the trailer. This keeps it from moving while you’re driving.
Using a car trailer is good for your car. But, it needs more work to move a vehicle. And it might cost more for short trips.
What is a Tow Dolly and How Does it Work?
A tow dolly helps you move a car by placing its front wheels on it. The back wheels stay on the ground. It works best for cars that pull from the front and is easy to put on and take off.
Make sure your car fits a tow dolly before using one. You should check your car’s weight, how weight is spread from front to back, its size, and how much space it has underneath. Not all cars can be moved this way, so it’s smart to check first.
Tow dollies can carry lighter loads than car trailers. They can handle up to about 3,450 lbs. for cars that pull from the front and 3,900 lbs. for cars that pull from the back. They are a good choice if you’re looking for a cheaper way to move.
For long trips, you need to take extra care when using a tow dolly. Make sure your car is tied down very well. This is so your car doesn’t get scratched or damaged on the road.
Differences Between Car Trailers and Tow Dollies
There are two main ways to move your car: using a car trailer or a tow dolly. Each has its own way of working. The cost, how easy it is to use, and how much weight they handle are also different.
Moving Method and Functionality
A car trailer lifts your car completely off the ground. It keeps all wheels secure. A tow dolly, on the other hand, keeps only the front wheels off the ground. This way, your car’s rear wheels still touch the road. This can affect how much the car wears down during transport.
Cost
Using a car trailer is usually more expensive than a tow dolly. But both may be cheaper than hiring pros to move your car. It’s all about your budget and how you want to move your car.
Ease of Use
Car trailers are easier for long moves. Tow dollies can be harder to move because you can’t back up with them. They need more careful handling.
Weight Capacity
Car trailers are better for moving heavy cars or trucks. They can carry more weight. Tow dollies have lower weight limits, so they’re best for lighter vehicles.
If you’re moving a heavy car, a car trailer might be the best choice. They’re more expensive but can carry more. If budget is a big concern, a tow dolly might be better. Just remember, they can be harder to use, especially for long trips.
Pros and Cons of Using a Car Trailer
Using a car trailer has good and bad points. We’ll look at the benefits and downsides:
Advantages of Using a Car Trailer:
- It cuts down on mileage and damage to your car. Since your car’s wheels don’t touch the road, it saves your tires and car parts from wearing.
- Great for moving long distances. If you need to move your car far, a trailer is up for the job.
- It’s built to move big and heavy vehicles. You can transport trucks and SUVs without a problem.
- It’s safer than tow dollies on fast roads. A car trailer is stable at high speeds, making your trip safer.
Disadvantages of Using a Car Trailer:
- It can be costly. Renting a trailer might be pricier than other moving options.
If you’re moving just a little ways, the cost of a trailer might not make sense. But for longer trips, its ability to save on wear and tear and keep your car safe could be worth it.
To see how a car trailer stands out, check out the table below:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| It cuts down on mileage and damage to your car | It can be costly |
| Great for moving long distances | |
| Moves big and heavy vehicles with ease | |
| Safe at high speeds |
Pros and Cons of Using a Tow Dolly
Tow dollies can make vehicle moving easier in many ways. Let’s look at the good and not-so-good sides of a tow dolly:
Affordability
Tow dollies are a cheaper way to move a vehicle. They cost less to rent or buy. This makes them a good choice for those watching their budget.
Suitable for Short Distance Moves
They’re perfect for moving not too far. If you’re going to a nearby place, they can be very handy. It’s a simple way to get your car where it needs to go.
Lightweight and Easy to Maneuver
Tow dollies are light and easy to handle. Moving your car comes with less trouble. Their small size also means they’re easy to keep and move around when you don’t need them.
Compatibility with Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, and Some Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles
Tow dollies work for a variety of cars. They can move front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and even some four-wheel drive cars. This is great news for many people who own different types of vehicles.
However, there are downsides to using tow dollies:
Weight Limitations
There’s a limit to the weight a tow dolly can handle. This can make some vehicles not fit. You need to check if your car is within this weight limit to avoid problems.
Distance Limitations
They’re not suited for moving over long distances. Their design might not keep your vehicle stable enough for a long trip. For far moves, you should consider other ways to transport your car.
Potential Wear and Tear
Your car may face more wear and tear on a tow dolly. The front wheels, which carry the most weight, might wear out faster. This can affect tires and the car’s suspension.
Before choosing a tow dolly, think about its pros and cons. They’re great for short moves and save money. But, they have limits like weight and distance. They could also affect your car’s condition. Consider your situation carefully before deciding.
| Pros of Using a Tow Dolly | Cons of Using a Tow Dolly |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Weight Limitations |
| Suitable for Short Distance Moves | Distance Limitations |
| Lightweight and Easy to Maneuver | Potential Wear and Tear |
| Compatibility with Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, and Some Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles |
Other Methods of Auto Transport to Consider
There are other ways to move a car besides a trailer or tow dolly. Here are some you might like:
Hiring a Professional Auto Transport Company
A good choice for easy, safe car shipping is a pro transport company. They know cars well and have the right stuff to care for your car.
Using Amtrak’s Auto Train
Headed on a trip by train? Amtrak’s Auto Train can carry your car along the East Coast. You and your car can travel in comfort together.
Hiring a Professional Driver
If it fits your budget, having someone else drive can save you trouble. A pro driver will take your car where it needs to go, letting you relax.
Enlisting a Friend or Family Member to Drive
Know someone who might drive your car for you? It’s a good budget choice for short trips. This way, someone you trust can look after your vehicle.
Driving the Car Yourself
If you can, driving the car is the cheapest way. You decide when and how to move, and can pack things in the car. It’s all up to you.
Think about these options when choosing how to move your vehicle. Look at cost and what’s easiest for your move. Then, pick the best choice for you.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Choosing between a car trailer and a tow dolly depends on your needs. Consider your budget, the car or vehicle you have, how far you’re going, and what’s easiest for you. A car trailer is great for heavy or large vehicles going long distances.
It lifts the entire car, which keeps it safe and has a big weight limit. On the other hand, for shorter moves with a car that can fit, a tow dolly might be better. It’s a cheaper and easy-to-use choice for cars that pull from the front.
Think about how far you’re going, what fits your budget, and the wear on your car. Also, check out other ways to move your car, like hiring pros, Amtrak’s Auto Train, or getting a friend to drive. Choose what works best for moving your car, based on what you need.
FAQ
What are the differences between using a car trailer and using a tow dolly to move a car?
A car trailer lifts the whole car off the ground. A tow dolly lifts only the front wheels. Car trailers are for bigger and heavier cars than tow dollies.
What is a car trailer and how does it work?
A car trailer has four wheels and raises the whole car. The car sits on the trailer with every wheel up.
What is a tow dolly and how does it work?
A tow dolly has two wheels and lifts only the front wheels of a car. This lets the car’s back wheels touch the road. It’s great for cars that drive with their front wheels.
What are the pros and cons of using a car trailer?
Car trailers protect the car better and can carry heavy vehicles far. But, they are more costly. This means you need a bigger budget.
What are the pros and cons of using a tow dolly?
Tow dollies are cheaper and lighter. They are good for short moves and different cars. Yet, they have rules about how heavy the car can be and how far you can go. Plus, it might cause some damage to the car being towed.
What are other methods of auto transport to consider?
Other ways to move a car include hiring pros, using Amtrak, or having someone drive it for you. You can also ask friends or family to help, or get behind the wheel yourself.
Which option is the best for car relocation?
The right way to move your car depends on your money, the car, how far you’re going, and what’s easiest for you. For a big car or a long trip, a car trailer might be best. For saving money on a short move with a car that fits, a tow dolly could work. It all depends on what fits your needs the most.