Bolton · Boat trailer centreBrampton · Work & utility trailers mayhemtrailers@gmail.com Call us

What size boat trailer do I need?

A quick guide to choosing a boat trailer by boat length and weight, with the trailers we build and sell at our Bolton boat trailer centre for each size. Still not sure? Call us with your boat’s make and model.

How to size a boat trailer

  • Length: the bunks or rollers should support the hull along its length — match the trailer to your boat’s length range.
  • Weight: add up the boat, motor, fuel and gear, and choose a trailer whose carrying capacity is comfortably above that total.
  • Axles & brakes: heavier boats need tandem or tri-axle trailers, and Ontario requires brakes over 1,360 kg (3,000 lb) gross.
  • Material: aluminum (lightest, rust-proof), galvanized steel (tough, corrosion-resistant) or painted steel (most affordable).

Trailers for boats up to 16 ft

Tin boats, inflatables, dinghies and small fishing boats. A light single-axle trailer is usually all you need.

Trailers for 16–20 ft boats

Small bowriders, fishing boats and runabouts — usually a single axle, or a tandem for heavier inboards.

Trailers for 20–28 ft boats

Bowriders, wake and ski boats and mid-size fishing boats. Most need a tandem axle trailer with brakes.

Trailers for 28–34 ft boats (30 ft boat trailers)

Cruisers and large fishing boats — tri-axle trailers with brakes on all axles.

Trailers for boats 34 ft and up (35, 40 ft and larger)

Large cruisers and offshore boats. These are heavy-duty tri and quad-axle trailers — call us to confirm the fit.

Pontoon and tritoon trailers

For pontoon boats from about 16 to 30 ft. All pontoon trailers →

Boat trailer FAQ

What size boat trailer do I need?

Start with your boat’s length, then its loaded weight — boat, motor, fuel, batteries and gear. Choose a trailer that fits the length and whose carrying capacity is comfortably above the loaded weight.

How do I find my boat’s weight?

Check the manufacturer’s spec sheet or the capacity plate, add the motor and fuel (gasoline is about 6 lb per gallon), then add your gear. If in doubt, call us with the make and model.

How many axles do I need?

Single axles suit light boats up to about 18–20 ft. Tandem axles carry more and tow more smoothly for 20–28 ft boats. Tri-axle trailers are for large cruisers over about 28 ft.

Do boat trailers need brakes in Ontario?

Yes, if the trailer’s gross weight is over 1,360 kg (3,000 lb). Our larger trailers come with electric brakes — check MTO rules for your setup.

Bunk or roller?

Bunks support the hull evenly and suit most boats and deeper ramps; rollers make launching and loading easier at shallow ramps.

Shop all boat trailers Call us