Cargo vs Utility Trailers: Which Do You Need?

Published: November 23, 2025 | Reading Time: 7 minutes

Choosing between a cargo trailer and a utility trailer is one of the most common decisions our Murfreesboro customers face. Both have their place, but the right choice depends on what you're hauling, where you're going, and your budget. Let's break down the differences to help you make the best decision.

The Basic Difference

Cargo trailers are enclosed with walls, a roof, and doors, providing complete protection from weather and theft. Utility trailers are open-bed trailers with low sides, designed for easy loading and maximum versatility.

Cargo Trailers: When Enclosed is Essential

Best Uses for Cargo Trailers:

• Moving household goods: Furniture, electronics, clothing, and personal items
• Business deliveries: Protecting inventory and maintaining professional appearance
• Valuable equipment: Tools, electronics, or anything that could be stolen
• Weather-sensitive items: Documents, artwork, or items that can't get wet
• Long-distance moves: Multi-day trips where security is important
• Clean transport: When you need to keep items dust and dirt-free

Cargo Trailer Sizes at MudRock Rentals:

• 12' Cargo Trailer: Perfect for studio apartments or small moves ($80/day)
• 16' Cargo Trailer: Ideal for 2-3 bedroom homes or business inventory ($110/day)
• 20' Cargo Trailer: Great for larger homes or commercial use ($135/day)
• 28' "Big Red" Cargo Trailer: Our largest, for major moves or commercial hauling ($160/day)

Utility Trailers: The Versatile Workhorse

Best Uses for Utility Trailers:

• Landscaping materials: Mulch, soil, plants, rocks, and yard waste
• Construction materials: Lumber, drywall, roofing materials
• Appliances: Refrigerators, washers, dryers, and large items
• Furniture: Couches, mattresses, and bulky items (when weather isn't a concern)
• Yard cleanup: Branches, leaves, and debris
• ATV/motorcycle transport: When you don't need full enclosure

Utility Trailer Sizes at MudRock Rentals:

• 6.5' x 12' Utility Trailer: Our most popular size, perfect for most jobs ($55/day)
• 7' x 14' Utility Trailer: Extra space for larger loads ($65/day)

Real-World Scenarios: Making the Right Choice

Scenario 1: College Student Moving

Situation: Moving from dorm to apartment in Murfreesboro

Items: Clothes, electronics, books, small furniture

Best Choice: 12' Cargo Trailer

Why: Electronics and personal items need weather protection, and the lockable trailer provides security during stops.

Scenario 2: Landscaping Project

Situation: Hauling mulch and plants from nursery to home

Items: 10 cubic yards of mulch, plants, gardening tools

Best Choice: 6.5' x 12' Utility Trailer

Why: Easy loading of bulk materials, lower cost, and no concern about getting the trailer dirty.

Scenario 3: Small Business Delivery

Situation: Delivering products to customers around Nashville

Items: Packaged goods, maintaining professional image

Best Choice: 16' Cargo Trailer

Why: Professional appearance, weather protection, and security for valuable inventory.

Scenario 4: Home Renovation

Situation: Hauling construction debris to dump site

Items: Drywall scraps, old flooring, construction waste

Best Choice: Utility Trailer (or better yet, Dump Trailer)

Why: Easy loading of heavy, dirty materials and easy unloading at the dump.

Cost Considerations Beyond Daily Rates

Hidden Costs to Consider:

• Fuel economy: Cargo trailers reduce fuel economy by 15-25% vs. 10-15% for utility trailers
• Cleaning fees: Cargo trailers must be returned clean ($75/hour cleaning fee if not)
• Damage risk: Open utility trailers have higher risk of load shifting or falling out
• Weather delays: Rain can delay utility trailer jobs, potentially extending rental period

Money-Saving Tips:

• Book the right size: Don't pay for space you won't use
• Plan for weather: Check forecast before choosing utility trailers
• Consider weekly rates: Significant savings for rentals over 4 days
• Return clean: Always return trailers broom-swept to avoid fees

Special Considerations for Middle Tennessee

Weather Patterns:

• Spring: Frequent thunderstorms make cargo trailers safer for valuable items
• Summer: High heat can damage electronics in open trailers
• Fall: Leaf season is perfect for utility trailers
• Winter: Ice and snow make cargo trailers safer for fragile items

Local Regulations:

• Murfreesboro: Some neighborhoods restrict commercial-looking trailers
• Nashville: Downtown parking restrictions may favor smaller cargo trailers
• Construction sites: Many prefer utility trailers for easy material access

Making Your Final Decision

The choice between cargo and utility trailers ultimately comes down to three main factors:

1. What you're hauling: Valuable/fragile items favor cargo trailers, while bulk materials favor utility trailers
2. Weather conditions: Rain or theft concerns point to cargo trailers
3. Budget considerations: Utility trailers offer the most value for appropriate jobs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I upgrade from utility to cargo trailer after I book?

A: Yes, subject to availability. We recommend calling as soon as you realize you need different equipment.

Q: Do you provide tie-down equipment?

A: We rent straps, chains, and tie-down equipment separately. Trailers don't include these items unless specifically noted.

Q: What if it starts raining during my utility trailer rental?

A: We recommend bringing tarps or plastic sheeting to protect your load. We also rent these items.

Q: Can I haul a car on a utility trailer?

A: Our utility trailers aren't designed for vehicles. We have dedicated car haulers that are much safer for vehicle transport.

Still have questions about choosing between cargo and utility trailers? Our team at MudRock Rentals has years of experience helping Middle Tennessee customers make the right choice. Call (615) 962-9758 for personalized advice.