When it comes to enclosed cargo trailers, the two most popular sizes are the 7×16 and the 8.5×20. Both are versatile workhorses used by contractors, moving companies, car dealers, and small business owners across Texas and Louisiana — but they serve different needs. This guide will walk you through the key differences so you can pick the right trailer the first time.
Quick Comparison: 7×16 vs 8.5×20 Enclosed Trailer
| Feature | 7×16 Enclosed | 8.5×20 Enclosed |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Width | ~82 inches | ~99 inches |
| Interior Length | 16 feet | 20 feet |
| Cargo Area (sq ft) | ~112 sq ft | ~170 sq ft |
| Typical GVWR | 7,000 lb | 9,990 lb |
| Typical Payload | 4,500 – 5,500 lb | 6,000 – 7,500 lb |
| Tow Vehicle Needed | 3/4-ton truck or larger | 3/4-ton or 1-ton truck |
| Best For | Light cargo, tools, ATVs | Full moves, vehicles, heavy gear |
| Price Range (TX) | $6,500 – $10,000 | $9,000 – $15,000+ |
Interior Dimensions: Why Width Matters More Than You Think
The most underappreciated difference between a 7-wide and an 8.5-wide enclosed trailer is the interior width. An 8.5-foot-wide trailer gives you 99 inches of usable interior space — wide enough to fit a car, a side-by-side UTV, or two motorcycles side by side. A 7-foot-wide trailer measures about 82 inches inside, which works great for tool storage, small ATVs, or light cargo, but you’ll feel the squeeze with larger equipment.
If you’re hauling a standard-width car (most are 70-80 inches wide), you technically can squeeze one into a 7×16 — but loading and unloading becomes stressful. An 8.5×20 gives you real working room on both sides of the vehicle.
What Can You Haul in a 7×16 Enclosed Trailer?
The 7×16 is the most popular size for light commercial use in Texas. Here’s what fits comfortably:
- Full set of contractor tools and equipment (saws, compressors, generators)
- One ATV or side-by-side (narrow models only)
- Two or three motorcycles
- Small apartment or studio apartment move
- Lawn care equipment (riding mower + push mower)
- One compact or subcompact car (tight but doable)
- Mobile business setup (detailing, repair, signage)
The 7×16 is ideal if you’re running a small business and need enclosed, lockable storage on wheels. Brands like Cargo Craft and Alcom both offer excellent 7×16 options at competitive price points.
What Can You Haul in an 8.5×20 Enclosed Trailer?
The 8.5×20 is the go-to choice for anyone hauling larger cargo, full-size vehicles, or needing serious payload capacity:
- One full-size car or truck cab (with room to walk around)
- Two motorcycles side by side with gear storage
- Full household move (1-2 bedroom home)
- Large equipment: mini excavator, compact track loader
- Auto dealer inventory transport (1-2 vehicles at a time)
- Race car and pit equipment
- Mobile workshop or office setup
For contractors needing a mobile shop or car dealers flipping vehicles, the 8.5×20 pays for itself quickly. The extra 4 feet of length and 18 inches of width make a big operational difference on every haul.
GVWR and Towing Requirements
Most 7×16 enclosed trailers are rated at 7,000 lb GVWR, meaning your combined trailer weight plus cargo can’t exceed 7,000 lbs. A Chevy Silverado 2500HD, Ram 2500, or even a capable half-ton truck like a Ford F-150 (with the right package) can tow a loaded 7×16 without issues.
The 8.5×20 typically runs at 9,990 lb GVWR — keeping it just under the 10,000 lb threshold that triggers commercial registration requirements in Texas. You’ll want at least a 3/4-ton truck like a Ram 2500 or Silverado 2500HD, or ideally a 1-ton like a Chevy Silverado 3500HD or Ford F-350.
Always check your truck’s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) before buying. Check out our GVWR and payload weight guide for more detail.
Price Difference: Is the 8.5×20 Worth the Upgrade?
In Texas, a base model 7×16 enclosed trailer typically runs $6,500 to $10,000 depending on brand and options. An 8.5×20 typically starts around $9,000 and goes to $15,000+ for premium builds with ramp doors, extra height, or upgraded floors.
If you’re on the fence, consider how often you’ll actually be pushing the 7×16’s limits. If you find yourself making two trips when one would do, or turning down jobs because your trailer is too small — the 8.5×20 will quickly pay back the price difference in time and fuel saved.
Enclosed Trailer Brands Available at Trailer Place
At Trailer Place in Wharton, TX, we stock both sizes from top brands including Cargo Craft and Alcom. Both brands build rugged, well-priced enclosed trailers suited for Texas and Louisiana buyers. We also carry a full selection of enclosed cargo trailers across multiple price points.
Looking for more brand comparisons? Check out our guide on Cargo Craft vs Alcom enclosed trailers or our best enclosed trailers for contractors in Texas.
Which Size Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple decision framework:
- Choose 7×16 if: You’re a small contractor, solo operator, or weekend hobbyist. Your loads are under 5,000 lbs and you don’t need to haul full-size vehicles.
- Choose 8.5×20 if: You’re hauling cars, side-by-sides, doing full moves, or running a mobile business with large equipment. You want room to grow into the trailer.
Still not sure? Call us at (979) 532-1486 — our team at Trailer Place has helped hundreds of Texas and Louisiana buyers find the right enclosed trailer for their budget and hauling needs. We offer in-stock enclosed trailers, flexible financing, and nationwide shipping. Stop by our lot in Wharton, TX or give us a call today.