If you’re trying to decide between a tilt trailer and a ramp trailer, understanding how each one works and what they’re best for is important. Both types have their strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on what you plan to use it for.
What Are Ramp Trailers?
Ramp trailers are simple, flatbed trailers that come with two removable ramps. These ramps, made of metal and weighing about 40-50 pounds each, are stored separately when not in use. To load a vehicle, you attach the ramps to the back of the trailer, creating a slope. The vehicle is then driven up onto the trailer. After loading, you remove the ramps and store them again.
Ramp trailers are like having a portable driveway wherever you go. However, the angle of the ramps can be steep, which might make it harder to load certain vehicles. They’re often used for heavy equipment or larger vehicles because of their strong weight capacity.
What Are Tilt Trailers?
Tilt trailers work differently. Instead of using separate ramps, the entire trailer bed tilts downward like a seesaw. When you unlock the trailer bed, the back end lowers to the ground. This lets you drive the vehicle straight onto the bed without lifting or attaching anything. Once the vehicle is loaded, the bed tilts back into place and locks securely.
Tilt trailers are especially useful for cars or lighter vehicles, particularly ones with low ground clearance. They provide a gentler slope for loading, making it easier and safer. These trailers are often chosen for their convenience and quick setup.
Key Differences Between Ramp and Tilt Trailers
How You Load Them
Ramp trailers take more effort to set up because you need to manually attach and position the ramps. Each ramp is heavy, so some strength is needed to lift and carry them. The steeper angle of the ramps (about 15 to 17 degrees) can also be a challenge for loading vehicles like sports cars or anything with low clearance. It usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes to load a vehicle with a ramp trailer.
Tilt trailers are much faster and easier. There’s no need to attach ramps because the trailer bed itself tilts to the ground. This gentler angle (about 8 to 11 degrees) is easier to drive up, especially for low cars. Loading a vehicle on a tilt trailer often takes just 1 to 2 minutes.
How Much Space They Need
Ramp trailers require more space to operate. You need about 6 to 8 feet behind the trailer to set up the ramps. Once you’re done, the ramps also need to be stored somewhere, either on the trailer itself or in your vehicle. Because of their setup, ramp trailers can be harder to maneuver in tight spaces.
Tilt trailers, on the other hand, don’t need any extra space for ramps. You only need the length of the trailer to load a vehicle. This makes tilt trailers easier to use in smaller or more crowded areas. Plus, there are no ramps to store, so they’re more compact overall.
Weight Limits and Maintenance
Ramp trailers can usually carry more weight—up to 10,000 pounds. This makes them great for heavy-duty equipment or larger vehicles. They are also simpler in design, which means there’s less to maintain. As long as the hinges on the ramps are in good shape, there’s not much else to worry about.
Tilt trailers generally have a lower weight capacity, usually around 7,500 pounds. They are better for lighter loads, like cars or small machinery. Since tilt trailers use hydraulic systems to tilt the bed, they require regular maintenance, such as an annual hydraulic check.
Cost
Ramp trailers are usually less expensive, average costing between $5,000 and $10,000. Tilt trailers are pricier, averaging from $9,000 to $20,000. While tilt trailers cost more upfront, their convenience and ease of use might make them worth it, depending on your needs.
Pros and Cons of Each
Ramp Trailers
Pros:
- Can carry more weight, up to 10,000 pounds.
- Lower cost compared to tilt trailers.
- Simple design with minimal maintenance needs.
Cons:
- Takes longer to load and requires physical strength to handle ramps.
- Steep ramps can be tricky for low-clearance vehicles.
- Needs extra space behind the trailer to set up ramps.
Tilt Trailers
Pros:
- Easier and faster to load, even for one person.
- Gentler loading angle, perfect for cars with low clearance.
- Compact and easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces.
Cons:
- Lower weight capacity, usually up to 7,500 pounds.
- More expensive than ramp trailers.
- Requires hydraulic maintenance.
How to Pick the Right Trailer
Why JIMGLO Stands Out
JIMGLO trailers are designed to make loading vehicles easier and safer, especially for low-clearance cars. The patented “No Bump” system eliminates the bump found on most tilt trailers at the pivot point. Here’s why it stands out:
- Smooth Loading: No bump where the trailer meets the ground, allowing vehicles to roll on easily.
- Protects the Vehicle: Low-clearance cars won’t scrape or get damaged.
- Less Wear on Vehicles: The smoother transition reduces stress on the vehicle while loading.
- One-Person Use: Quick and simple for one person to load and unload.
- Extra Safety: Built-in features like automatic locks make loading secure and worry-free.
Choose a JIMGLO Tilt Trailer if You:
- Haul low-clearance cars, like sports cars or show cars.
- Load and unload vehicles frequently and need to save time.
- Often work alone and prefer an easy, hassle-free option.
- Want to avoid using ramps altogether.
- Care about protecting vehicles from scraping or damage during loading.
Choose a Ramp Trailer if You:
- Frequently transport heavy equipment or machinery.
- Need a budget-friendly option and are okay with more manual effort.
- Don’t mind lifting and storing ramps.
- Have enough space to set up ramps during loading.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re hauling heavy equipment or vehicles and want a lower-cost option, a ramp trailer might be the better choice. They’re strong, reliable, and simple to maintain, but you’ll need more effort and space to use them.
If convenience and speed are your priorities, or if you’re hauling cars that might scrape on ramps, a tilt trailer is the way to go. The higher price and lower weight capacity are trade-offs for the ease of use and the ability to load vehicles with low ground clearance safely. Read our Car Trailer Buying Guide for more information.
Ultimately, the choice depends on what you need the trailer for and how often you’ll use it. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
Ready to Learn More?
Check out JIMGLO’s Open Car Trailer page to:
- Learn all the details about the trailers.
- Compare different models to find what works best for you.
- Get a free quote for your perfect trailer.
Why deal with the hassle of old ramps? JIMGLO’s tilt trailers make loading your car easier, safer, and faster. Visit today and see the difference!
