We researched and compared the top lowboy trailers for pickup trucks based on manufacturer specifications, published safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback. Our evaluation focuses on towing capacity, deck construction, ramp design, and overall durability to help you choose the right trailer for your needs.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Big Tex 14PI-20 Lowboy Best Overall 20,000 lb GVWR, 14 ft deck, tandem axle with electric brakes |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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PJ Trailers 18K Lowboy Runner Up 18,000 lb GVWR, 16 ft deck, all-steel construction |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Load Trail 20+5 Lowboy Best for Heavy Equipment 25,000 lb GVWR, 20 ft deck plus 5 ft dovetail, triple axle |
8.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Sure Trac 16K Lowboy Best Value 16,000 lb GVWR, 16 ft deck, wood floor with steel frame |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Hudson 20 ft Lowboy Best for Long Loads 14,000 lb GVWR, 20 ft deck, tandem axle with surge brakes |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Aluma 8218 Lowboy Lightest Option 7,000 lb GVWR, 18 ft deck, all-aluminum construction |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kaufman 18 ft Lowboy Budget Pick 12,000 lb GVWR, 18 ft deck, tandem axle with electric brakes |
7.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Big Tex 14PI-20 Lowboy: Best Overall
The Big Tex 14PI-20 is a well-built lowboy trailer designed for heavy-duty hauling. Its I-beam frame and wood deck provide a sturdy platform for skid steers, mini excavators, or other heavy equipment. Owner feedback highlights the smooth towing experience, thanks to the tandem axle and electric brakes. The spring-assisted ramps make loading easier, though the ramps are still heavy for one person to handle.
However, this trailer’s empty weight is around 4,500 pounds, which eats into its 20,000-pound GVWR. That means you can only haul about 15,500 pounds of cargo. If you need to maximize payload for lighter loads, consider a lighter model. Also, the wood deck requires periodic maintenance to prevent rot. Skip this if you prefer an all-steel deck or need a trailer under 3,000 pounds empty.
- Heavy-duty I-beam frame with 2-inch pressure-treated wood deck.
- Spring-assisted ramps for easy loading of equipment.
- Adjustable coupler height for various truck hitch heights.
Pros: Excellent build quality and durability.; Smooth towing with electric brakes.
Cons: Heavy empty weight reduces payload capacity.
2. PJ Trailers 18K Lowboy: Runner Up
PJ Trailers’ 18K Lowboy is a solid choice for those who prefer an all-steel deck. The diamond plate provides good traction even in wet conditions, and the fold-up ramps with spring assist make loading and unloading straightforward. Owner reviews note that the trailer tows well at highway speeds and the electric brakes are responsive. The all-steel construction means no wood to replace, but it does add weight.
One downside is that the steel can rust if the paint chips, especially in salt-belt states. Some owners recommend applying an undercoating. Also, the 18,000-pound GVWR is slightly lower than the Big Tex’s 20,000-pound capacity. If you need to haul loads approaching 16,000 pounds, this trailer’s payload (around 14,000 pounds after accounting for its weight) may be insufficient. Skip this if you require a higher GVWR or prefer a wood deck for lower cost.
- All-steel deck with diamond plate for slip resistance.
- Heavy-duty 2-5/16 inch coupler and safety chains.
- Fold-up ramps with spring assist for single-person operation.
Pros: All-steel deck is durable and low maintenance.; Fold-up ramps are easy to deploy.
Cons: Rust can be an issue if not properly painted.
3. Load Trail 20+5 Lowboy: Best for Heavy Equipment
For those hauling large skid steers, mini excavators, or even small tractors, the Load Trail 20+5 Lowboy offers a generous 25,000-pound GVWR. The triple axle setup with electric brakes provides stable stopping power, and the hydraulic dovetail makes it easy to drive equipment onto the deck. Owner feedback praises the durable I-beam frame that handles heavy loads without flexing.
However, this trailer’s empty weight is substantial (around 6,500 pounds), which means it requires a heavy-duty pickup truck with sufficient towing capacity. Many owners note that a 3/4-ton or 1-ton truck is necessary. Additionally, the hydraulic system adds complexity and potential maintenance. If you don’t need the extra capacity or hydraulic dovetail, a simpler trailer may be more practical. Skip this if you have a half-ton truck or prefer lower maintenance.
- Triple 7,000 lb axles with electric brakes on all wheels.
- Hydraulic dovetail for drive-on loading of heavy equipment.
- Heavy-duty 8-inch I-beam frame.
Pros: Very high GVWR for heavy equipment.; Hydraulic dovetail simplifies loading.
Cons: Very heavy empty weight (over 6,000 lb).
4. Sure Trac 16K Lowboy: Best Value
The Sure Trac 16K Lowboy is a cost-effective option for those who need a reliable trailer without breaking the bank. It features a steel frame with a wood deck, offering a balance of strength and affordability. Owner reviews indicate that it tows well and the electric brakes are effective. The spring-assisted ramps are a nice touch for loading lighter equipment.
However, the wood deck is a weak point; over time, it can rot or warp, especially if exposed to moisture. Some owners report replacing the deck after 3-5 years. Also, the 16,000-pound GVWR limits payload to around 12,000 pounds after accounting for the trailer’s weight. If you need a higher capacity or prefer an all-steel deck, look elsewhere. Skip this if you plan to haul heavy loads frequently or live in a wet climate.
- 2×6 pressure-treated wood deck on steel frame.
- Adjustable hitch coupler for different truck heights.
- Ramps with spring assist for easier loading.
Pros: Good value for the price.; Decent payload capacity for the weight.
Cons: Wood deck may need replacement after a few years.
5. Hudson 20 ft Lowboy: Best for Long Loads
The Hudson 20 ft Lowboy is designed for hauling long items like lumber, pipes, or small boats. Its 20-foot deck provides ample length, and the removable sides allow for open loading. The surge brakes are convenient for trucks without a brake controller, but they can feel less responsive compared to electric brakes. Owner feedback mentions that the trailer is stable at highway speeds when loaded properly.
However, the GVWR is only 14,000 pounds, which limits payload to about 10,000 pounds. This trailer is not suitable for heavy equipment like excavators. Some owners have reported rust issues on the frame after a few years. If you need to haul heavy machinery, this is not the right choice. Skip this if you require electric brakes or a higher payload capacity.
- Long 20 ft deck for hauling pipes, lumber, or boats.
- Surge brakes for trailers without electric hookup.
- Removable sides for multi-purpose loading.
Pros: Long deck length for oversized items.; Surge brakes work with most trucks.
Cons: Surge brakes can be less responsive than electric.
6. Aluma 8218 Lowboy: Lightest Option
The Aluma 8218 is an aluminum lowboy trailer that weighs only 1,200 pounds, making it an excellent choice for half-ton pickup trucks. Its lightweight construction means you can tow it with a smaller truck without exceeding payload limits. The fold-up ramps are easy to handle, and the aluminum frame won’t rust. Owner reviews appreciate the low maintenance and ease of towing.
However, the GVWR is only 7,000 pounds, so you can only haul about 5,800 pounds of cargo. This limits it to smaller equipment like ATVs, lawn tractors, or compact cars. The aluminum deck can also be slippery when wet. If you need to haul heavier loads or equipment with high ground pressure, this trailer is not suitable. Skip this if you require a higher payload or prefer a steel deck for heavy equipment.
- Lightweight aluminum frame and deck (only 1,200 lb empty).
- Fold-up ramps with spring assist.
- Compatible with half-ton trucks.
Pros: Very light weight, easy to tow with smaller trucks.; Aluminum won't rust.
Cons: Low payload capacity (around 5,800 lb).
7. Kaufman 18 ft Lowboy: Budget Pick
The Kaufman 18 ft Lowboy is a very budget-friendly options on the market. It offers a 12,000-pound GVWR and an 18-foot deck, suitable for hauling smaller tractors, cars, or construction materials. The electric brakes and spring-assisted ramps are functional. Owner feedback indicates that it works well for occasional use and lighter loads.
However, some owners have reported weld failures or frame cracks after a few years of heavy use. The wood deck is basic and may need replacement sooner than higher-end models. The paint finish is also prone to chipping. If you plan to use the trailer frequently or for heavy loads, this may not hold up. Skip this if you need a trailer for daily commercial use or hauling over 8,000 pounds regularly.
- Steel frame with 2×6 wood deck.
- Adjustable coupler and safety chains.
- Ramps with spring assist.
Pros: Very affordable price point.; Adequate for light to medium-duty hauling.
Cons: Lower build quality; some owners report weld issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a lowboy trailer and what is it used for?
A lowboy trailer is a type of flatbed trailer with a lower deck height, typically 18 to 24 inches off the ground. This low profile makes it easier to load heavy equipment like skid steers, mini excavators, or vehicles. They often feature a dovetail or ramps for drive-on loading and are commonly used in construction, landscaping, and agriculture.
How do I choose the right lowboy trailer for my pickup truck?
First, check your truck’s towing capacity and payload rating. The trailer’s GVWR should not exceed your truck’s towing capacity. Also consider the trailer’s empty weight, as it reduces your payload. For example, a 20,000 lb GVWR trailer that weighs 4,500 lb leaves 15,500 lb of cargo capacity. Also match the hitch type (bumper pull vs gooseneck) and brake controller compatibility.
What is the difference between electric brakes and surge brakes on a lowboy trailer?
Electric brakes are controlled by a brake controller in your truck, allowing you to adjust braking force. They are more responsive and preferred for heavy loads. Surge brakes are hydraulic and activate when the trailer pushes against the hitch. They are simpler and don’t require a controller, but can be less consistent, especially on steep grades.
Are wood deck or steel deck lowboy trailers better?
Wood decks are lighter and cheaper but require maintenance to prevent rot and can splinter. Steel decks are more durable, slip-resistant (with diamond plate), and low maintenance, but they add weight and can rust. For heavy equipment, steel is often preferred. For occasional use, wood may be sufficient.
Do I need a special license to tow a lowboy trailer?
It depends on the combined weight of your truck and trailer. In the US, if the GVWR of the trailer exceeds 10,000 lb and the combined GVWR exceeds 26,000 lb, a CDL may be required. Also, some states have specific requirements for trailers over certain weights. Always check your local regulations.
Our Verdict
After comparing specifications and owner feedback, the Big Tex 14PI-20 Lowboy stands out as the best overall for its strong build, high GVWR, and smooth towing. For those needing an all-steel deck, the PJ Trailers 18K Lowboy is a strong runner-up. Choose based on your truck’s capacity and typical load weight.
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