How Many Meters is a Trailer?
4 Answers
National regulations and the global heavy-duty vehicle industry standards stipulate that the maximum width of a trailer is limited to 255 meters. Types of Trailers: Hook-and-Chain Trucks: Also known as sling-type tow trucks, they are no longer used as frequently as before. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks: Similar to hook-and-chain trucks, but they use a metal yoke instead of chains. This yoke is attached under the front or rear wheels of the towed vehicle. Flatbed Tow Trucks: Also known as rollback tow trucks, they feature a large empty bed at the rear of the truck. Using hydraulics, this bed can tilt to form a ramp. Performance Features of Towing Trailers: Dual-spring buffered towing mechanism provides cushioning during vehicle startup or sudden braking to prevent cargo damage. The towing cage is adjustable and fixed vertically, allowing simple adjustments for different tonnage towing heads or forklift towing. The suspended frame, compared to traditional rigid connections (welding), reduces long-term stress damage to the vehicle body, resulting in a longer service life.
I have quite some experience with trailer length. Generally, the maximum length for trailers towed by passenger vehicles is around 10 meters, but this depends on local regulations and vehicle type. For example, highways may allow 10 meters, but urban roads might reduce it to 7 meters—exceeding these limits can result in fines and safety hazards. I strongly recommend checking local traffic laws or consulting a 4S shop before towing. Don’t just opt for an oversized trailer to save money. Longer trailers are harder to control and more prone to fishtailing or losing control in turns. New drivers should start with shorter trailers—7 to 8 meters is much safer. When choosing a trailer, ensure it matches your vehicle’s towing capacity; don’t use a small car to tow a large trailer, as it can lead to braking difficulties and high fuel consumption. Safe driving is paramount, and choosing a reasonable length can prevent many issues.
Thinking back to my first trailer trip in my youth, I was also curious about how long a trailer could be. Back then, the old regulations stated that the towed part should not exceed 10 meters, so I chose a 9-meter one, only to nearly lose control in the mountains. Experience taught me that keeping the trailer length under 8 meters is more reliable: it offers better maneuverability in turns, easier reversing, and improved stability in windy conditions. Current regulations vary by region, with most places in China limiting trailers to under 10 meters. However, I personally find shorter trailers, like 5-7 meters, the most hassle-free—easy to park yet still capable of carrying essentials. Don’t make the same mistake I did by blindly towing oversized loads; beginners should always assess their capabilities and start with a smaller trailer before upgrading. Keep speeds moderate while towing, and drive slower in the rain to prevent skidding. In short, the right length ensures a worry-free journey.
The length of a trailer is usually limited by local regulations to about 10 meters, as an excessively long trailer increases risks such as trailer sway or brake failure. When towing a trailer with a passenger car, 8 to 10 meters is a common safe range; exceeding this is both illegal and difficult to control. I often remind friends to check their vehicle's towing capacity and ensure the tow hook is secure. Adjust according to road conditions: slightly longer on highways, shorter in urban areas. In short, follow the rules for safety and don't push your limits when towing.
