5x8 Enclosed Trailer with Extra Height

In a world of ever-growing needs for flexible transport and mobile storage, finding the right solution is paramount. Whether you’re a small business owner, a dedicated hobbyist, or a weekend warrior tackling home projects, the limitations of a standard vehicle quickly become apparent. This is where the enclosed Cargo Trailer emerges as a game-changer. Specifically, the 5x8 model with extra height offers a unique blend of maneuverability, capacity, and versatility that sets it apart from the rest. It’s the perfect sweet spot—small enough to tow easily behind most SUVs and trucks, yet spacious enough to handle significant loads, especially when vertical space is optimized.

Introduction: Why a 5x8 Enclosed Trailer with Extra Height is Your Smartest Choice

Choosing an Enclosed Cargo Trailer is not just about moving items from one point to another; it’s about investing in security, protection, and efficiency. The enclosed design shields your valuable cargo from weather, theft, and road debris, a crucial advantage over open utility trailers. The 5x8 footprint is particularly strategic, providing ample floor space without being cumbersome in tight spaces or city traffic. When you add enhanced height to this equation, you unlock a new level of utility that standard models simply cannot match.

The Increasing Demand for Adaptable Transportation

The need for adaptable hauling solutions is on the rise. With a significant portion of people opting for DIY moves—Movers Development reports that 24.1% of movers in 2023 chose a DIY approach—personal cargo trailers are becoming indispensable. This trend is mirrored in the commercial sector, where the growth of e-commerce and local delivery services fuels the need for efficient, last-mile transportation. The overall trailer market is robust, with projections showing it will grow significantly in the coming years, underscoring the long-term value of such an investment.

What Characterizes a 5x8 Enclosed Cargo Trailer?

At its core, a 5x8 enclosed trailer is a mobile container measuring five feet wide by eight feet long. It’s built on a sturdy frame with a single axle and is fully encased with walls and a roof. This size is ideal for hauling motorcycles, landscaping equipment, construction tools, or the contents of a small apartment. Its compact nature ensures it’s easy to tow, park, and store.

The “Enhanced Height” Advantage: More Than Just Additional Room

The “enhanced height” or “Extra Tall Enclosed Cargo Trailer” is the critical feature that elevates the 5x8’s functionality. Standard models often have an interior height of around five feet, which can be restrictive. Adding an extra six, twelve, or even more inches transforms the space. It means you can load taller items like refrigerators or large tool chests upright, stack boxes higher for maximum cubic footage, and even stand comfortably inside, turning the trailer into a mobile workshop or changing room. This vertical advantage is the key to unlocking the trailer’s full potential.

What You Will Grasp in This Comprehensive Guide

This guide is designed to demystify the process of selecting the perfect 5x8 enclosed trailer with extra height. We will dissect every critical component, from the frame’s foundational strength to the nuances of interior lighting. You will learn how to evaluate construction quality, understand the importance of specific features, and make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget.

Understanding the “Enhanced Height” Advantage: Unveiling New Opportunities

The enclosed trailer market is not just growing; it’s thriving, with projections expecting it to reach USD 12.3 Billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by consumers demanding more versatile and capable trailers. Extra height directly addresses this demand, opening up possibilities for landscapers with tall mowers, contractors with bulky equipment, or outdoor enthusiasts with UTVs or customized gear that exceeds standard trailer clearances.

Defining “Enhanced Height” for a 5x8 Enclosed Trailer (e.g., +6″, +12″)

“Enhanced height” is typically defined as any Interior Height greater than the manufacturer’s standard offering. This is often sold in increments like “+6 inches” or “+12 inches.” A standard 5x8 might have a 5′ (60-inch) interior height. An extra-height model could feature a 6′ (72-inch) or even a 6’6″ (78-inch) interior, which makes a profound difference in utility.

Why Interior Height is Crucial: Practical Applications

The practical benefits are immediate. With extra height, you can:

• Load Tall Items: Easily fit appliances, armoires, and equipment without tipping them on their side, reducing the risk of damage.
• Maximize Cubic Volume: Stack more boxes and bins safely, making the most of the trailer’s footprint for moves or storage.
• Create a Workspace: Stand up straight inside, which is essential for anyone using the trailer as a mobile workshop, concession stand, or on-site office.
• Haul Recreational Vehicles: Accommodate ATVs, UTVs, or motorcycles with high handlebars or roll cages.

How to Accurately Measure and Compare Interior Height (wall to wall Height)

When a manufacturer lists “Interior Height,” it’s crucial to understand what is being measured. The most accurate measurement is the wall to wallHeight, taken from the floor to the lowest point of the ceiling structure, which is often the Roof Members or cross beams. Don’t just rely on the height of the side walls. Always confirm the floor-to-ceiling clearance at the center and, importantly, the vertical clearance of the Rear Door opening, as this will be your loading bottleneck.

Key Construction & Design Elements: Engineered for Longevity and Utility

The value of a trailer lies in its construction. A well-built trailer is a long-term asset, while a poorly constructed one is a liability. Focus on the core elements that ensure durability and functionality.

The Bedrock: Frame and Chassis

The frame is the trailer’s skeleton. Look for trailers built with Steel Tube Main Frame Rails, which offer superior strength and rigidity compared to weaker C-channel or angle iron frames. This robust foundation is essential for handling the stresses of towing, especially with the added profile of an extra-height model. Some premium brands offer an Aluminum with Steel Frame construction, which provides the strength of a steel chassis with the weight-saving and corrosion-resistant benefits of an aluminum superstructure. The axle is another critical component; a 3,500 lb rated axle is a common and reliable choice for this size, providing ample payload capacity. While a 2- 5200 lb axle setup is overkill for a 5x8, understanding axle ratings is key to ensuring you don’t overload your trailer.

Walls, Floor, and Roof: Safeguarding Your Cargo

The materials used for the interior shell are vital for both protection and utility. High-quality Plywood Floors, typically 3/4-inch thick, provide a durable and easily replaceable surface that distributes weight effectively. Similarly, 3/8-inch Plywood Walls offer a sturdy surface for mounting shelves, hooks, and tie downs, making it easy to customize your cargo management system. For the roof, look for features like a Therma Cool Ceiling Liner. This simple addition helps regulate the interior temperature, protecting sensitive cargo from extreme heat and reducing condensation. The roof itself should be a single, seamless aluminum sheet to minimize the potential for leaks.

Access and Ease of Use: Doors, Ramps, and Interior Provisions

How you get your cargo in and out is a daily consideration. The design of the doors and internal features directly impacts the trailer’s usability.

Rear Door Configurations: Selecting Your Entry Point

You generally have two options for the rear entry. A double Rear Door (barn style) is excellent for tight spaces where you can’t lower a ramp and offers security. However, for rolling equipment, nothing beats a RAMP DOOR. This single-piece door folds down to become a loading ramp. Look for a Rear Ramp Door with a high capacity ramp rating, spring-assist for easy lifting, and a transition flap at the bottom for a smooth roll-on.

Interior Illumination: Ensuring Visibility

Working inside a dark trailer is frustrating and unsafe. A standard feature on quality trailers is at least one 12 Volt Dome Light, usually switched near the side entry door. A simple DOME LIGHT provides enough illumination to find gear and secure loads after dark, and it can be easily wired to your tow vehicle’s battery.

Securing Your Freight: Tie-Down Systems

Your cargo is only as secure as your tie-down points. A good trailer will come standard with several floor- or wall-mounted D-rings or other integrated tie downs. These are essential for preventing items from shifting during transit, which can cause damage and create unsafe towing conditions. Ensure the tie downs are bolted directly to the trailer’s frame members for maximum strength.

Exterior Aspects and Towing Factors

The trailer’s exterior design and components play a huge role in towing safety, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability.

Aerodynamics and Design: V-Nose vs. Flat-Nose

The front profile of the trailer affects towing performance. A traditional flat-front trailer is simple, but a V-Nose Cargo Trailer offers distinct advantages. The V-shape cuts through the air more efficiently, reducing drag and potentially improving your tow vehicle’s fuel economy. It also adds a few extra feet of interior storage space at the front, perfect for installing cabinets or a workbench.

Wheels, Tires, and Suspension Systems

Don’t overlook the running gear. Radial Tires are a must-have; they run cooler, last longer, and provide a smoother ride than older bias-ply tires. These are often mounted on durable Silver Mod Wheels. A leaf spring suspension system is the industry standard, offering a reliable balance of load support and ride quality.

Lighting and Safety Features

Proper lighting is a legal and safety requirement. Modern trailers should feature bright and long-lasting LED Exterior Lights, including the LED Tail Lights. LEDs are more visible, consume less power, and are far more durable than traditional incandescent bulbs. On the front, a 24-inch stone guard made of diamond plate aluminum is crucial for protecting the trailer’s finish from rocks and debris kicked up by the tow vehicle.

Hitch and Jack Mechanisms

The connection to your vehicle is critical. A standard 2-inch A-frame coupler is typical for this trailer size. The jack, used to raise and lower the trailer onto the hitch, should be sturdy and easy to operate. A jack equipped with a Sand Foot (or footplate) is a valuable feature that prevents it from sinking into soft ground. The Ramp Hitch Type and setup should be compatible with your vehicle for a level and safe towing posture.

Finalizing Your Choice: A Structured Approach to Finding the Perfect Trailer

With a solid understanding of the components, you can now approach the buying process strategically. A quality 5x8 trailer can cost between $2,500 and $4,500 depending on features and build quality.

Step 1: Pinpoint Your Primary Use Scenarios and Cargo

What will you be hauling most often? Landscaping equipment, band gear, antique furniture, or a motorcycle? Your primary cargo will dictate the necessity of a ramp door, the number of tie-downs you need, and the absolute minimum interior height required.

Step 2: Establish Your Financial Plan and Prioritize Features

Determine your budget, but be prepared to invest in quality. Prioritize features based on your needs. For example, if you work in hot climates, a Therma-Cool ceiling is a priority. If you haul heavy, rolling items, a heavy-duty ramp door is non-negotiable.

Step 3: Investigate Brands and Their Reputations

Look for manufacturers with a reputation for quality construction and customer service. Brands like Covered Wagon, often found under the Covered Wagon Trailers name, are known for building durable products. Read reviews, visit dealer lots, and talk to other trailer owners.

Step 4: Thoroughly Inspect a Trailer Before Acquisition

Never buy a trailer sight unseen. During inspection, check for clean welds, a square frame, proper door alignment, and neatly run wiring. Push on the walls to check for flex, and walk on the floor to feel for soft spots. Test the lights and the ramp door’s spring-assist mechanism. Pay attention to the trailer’s Shipping Weight to ensure your vehicle can safely tow it, and understand its payload capacity.

Ownership Post-Purchase: Upkeep and Regulatory Compliance

Your responsibility doesn’t end after the purchase. Regularly check tire pressure, test your lights before every trip, and lubricate the ramp door hinges. Inspect the roof seals periodically to prevent leaks. Be aware of your state’s registration and inspection requirements for trailers.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect 5x8 enclosed trailer with extra height is a significant decision that pays dividends in functionality and efficiency. By focusing on the fundamentals—a strong Steel Tube Main Frame, durable Plywood Floors and walls, and the essential utility of a RAMP DOOR—you build a foundation for a reliable hauling solution. The “extra height” feature is the crucial multiplier, transforming a standard cargo box into a versatile space that can adapt to nearly any task.

As you move forward, use this guide as your checklist. Define your needs, prioritize quality construction over cosmetic frills, and invest in the features that will serve you best. By doing your homework and conducting a thorough inspection, you will find a trailer that is not just a tool, but a dependable partner for your business, hobbies, and adventures for years to come.