The first time I looked for a car trailer manufacturer in Europe, I thought it would be simple but the deeper I searched, the more confusing it got.
Some had impressive websites but no reviews. Others had solid reputations, but no real product info.
I didn’t need a fancy brand, I needed something that would last.
If you’re in that same spot trying to find a trailer supplier that fits your business, you’re in the right place.
This article breaks down 7 trusted European manufacturers. You’ll get a clear view of what they offer, how they operate, and whether they fit your needs.
Let’s start!
Quick Comparison
Before diving into each manufacturer’s story, here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you spot key differences quickly:
Manufacturer | Year Founded | Headquarters | Specialty Trailers | Ideal For | Customization | Warranty/Support | Available In |
Schmitz Cargobull | 1892 | Altenberge, Germany | Box, curtainsider, tipper, chassis | Logistics, construction, agriculture | Yes | Strong support, parts, service | Across Europe |
Krone | 1906 | Werlte, Germany | Profi Liner, Cool Liner, Mega Liner | General cargo, high-volume, cold chain | Yes | Large dealer/service network | Europe and beyond |
Kögel | 1934 | Burtenbach, Germany | Platform, box, tipper, chassis | Construction, transport, container work | Yes | Service and parts access | 11+ countries |
Humbaur | 1957 | Gersthofen, Germany | Utility, vehicle, box, horse trailers | Agriculture, small business, personal use | Yes | Solid service network | Europe |
Brian James Trailers | 1979 | Daventry, UK | Open/enclosed car, plant, tipper | Motorsport, equipment, general hauling | Yes | 5-year chassis warranty | UK and selected regions |
Ifor Williams Trailers | 1958 | Corwen, Wales (UK) | Livestock, plant, flatbed, horseboxes | Farms, rural logistics, contractors | Limited | Strong UK network, galvanizing plant | UK and parts of Europe |
Westfalia-Werke | 1844 | Rheda-Wiedenbrück, Germany | Camper, small utility, towbar systems | Recreational users, light hauling | Limited | Parts access, online support | Mostly Europe |
Now that you’ve seen how they compare, let’s get into the details of each one, so you can make the best call for your needs.
1. Schmitz Cargobull
Year founded: 1892
Headquarters: Altenberge, Germany
Workforce: Around 6,900 people
CEO: Andreas Schmitz
Global presence: Production in Germany, Spain, Lithuania, Russia, and China. Distribution and service across Europe.
Back when I first started hauling vehicles, I thought all trailers were pretty much the same. That belief didn’t last long. After one breakdown too many, I began researching who actually builds trailers that last. That’s when I found Schmitz Cargobull.
They’ve been around for over 130 years and they’re one of Europe’s most established trailer manufacturers. Their experience shows the way they build and support their products. If you’ve been looking for a company with long-standing credibility, this one’s worth considering.
Trailer Portfolio
Let’s talk about what they actually build.
Schmitz Cargobull manufactures different types of trailers, including:
- Box trailers
- Flatbeds and curtainsiders
- Tipper trailers
- Container chassis
You can customize many of their trailers depending on what you need. They offer options for things like axle configuration, loading ramps, and special coatings.
What kind of quality can you expect?
From my experience and what others in the industry say, their trailers hold up under long-term, heavy use. They also meet European transport safety standards, which helps if you’re moving goods across borders.
Support & Pricing
Now let’s talk about something most buyers care about: long-term support.
Schmitz offers:
- Maintenance and repair services
- Access to spare parts throughout Europe
- Warranty packages with flexible coverage
They’re also transparent with financing. You can get structured payment options through their own finance division. That helped me spread out my investment when cash flow was tight.
Contact Info
- Phone: +49 (2558) 81-0
- Address: Bahnhofstraße 22, 48612 Horstmar, Germany
Final Review
If you’re in construction, logistics, or agriculture, and need a trailer that can take a beating without constant repairs, this brand is worth a closer look.
Is it the cheapest option? No. But it’s a solid long-term investment.

2. Krone
Year founded: 1906
Headquarters: Spelle, Germany
Ownership: Still family-run, now in its fourth generation
Workforce: About 2,800 employees
Reach: They operate production sites in Germany, Denmark, Turkey, and the Netherlands. They also have a wide sales and service network across Europe.
Back when I first started sourcing trailers for my growing delivery operation, I came across the name Krone over and over again. Friends in logistics mentioned them. A mechanic I trusted called them “the kind you buy once and forget about for years.”
That stuck with me.
Krone has been building trailers for over 100 years. They’re based in Spelle, Germany, and they’ve grown from a small family business into one of Europe’s most respected trailer manufacturers. Their focus is on building trailers that hold up, even when pushed hard.
If you’re looking for a solid trailer brand that doesn’t just talk about quality but actually builds it into every unit, Krone is worth your time.
Trailer Portfolio
Wondering what kind of trailers Krone actually makes?
Here’s a breakdown:
- Profi Liner: Great for general cargo
- Mega Liner: Offers more space for high-volume loads
- Cool Liner: A refrigerated trailer for temperature-sensitive goods
- Dry Liner: Keeps dry freight protected
- Box Liner: Built for moving shipping containers
Krone also lets you adjust or modify their designs to better match your load types or routes. If you’re dealing with oversized goods or running special hauls, that flexibility matters.
They meet European transport safety standards, which is key if you’re working across borders or bidding on regulated contracts.
Support & Pricing
Krone offers helpful after-sales support, including:
- Service centers across Europe
- Fast access to spare parts
- Flexible financing programs
Their pricing? It’s competitive, but you’ll need to reach out for a quote that fits your configuration and order volume. In my case, I worked with a regional dealer who walked me through every cost line by line. That level of clarity made the decision easier.
Contact Info
Here’s how you can get in touch:
- Phone: +49 (5951) 209-0
- Address: Bernard-Krone-Straße 1, 49757 Werlte, Germany
Final Review
So, is Krone the right fit for you?
If you’re in logistics, construction, agriculture, or need something reliable for long hauls, Krone is a strong contender. They’re not the flashiest name out there, but they’ve earned their reputation through consistency.
What stood out to me most? Their trailers felt like they were made with real drivers in mind not just spreadsheets.
If you’re tired of breakdowns, delays, or support that disappears after delivery, Krone might be what you’ve been looking for.

3. Kögel
Year Founded: 1934
Headquarters: Burtenbach, Germany
Leadership: Christian Renners (CEO), Christian Spengler (CFO), Thore Bakker (CSO)
Workforce: Around 1,200 employees
Global Presence: Operations in 11 countries, with main facilities in Germany and the Czech Republic
Kögel has been manufacturing trailers since 1934. They started in Neu-Ulm, Germany and have spent decades focusing on quality, function, and driver needs. If you’re looking for a brand with history and staying power, Kögel might be a name worth exploring.
Trailer Portfolio
So what does Kögel actually offer? The variety surprised me at first.
Here’s what you’ll find in their lineup:
- Platform trailers: Simple, open designs for standard cargo
- Box trailers: Enclosed units for goods that need protection
- Tipper trailers: For loose materials like sand, gravel, or grain
- Container chassis: Specialized frames for moving shipping containers
They’ve also introduced the NOVUM series. It’s a newer generation with updated features based on real user feedback. I saw one in action once and was impressed with how solid it felt under a full load.
Support & Pricing
Let’s talk about what happens after the purchase. Because let’s face it, that’s where many brands fall short.
Kögel offers:
- Service support throughout Europe
- Spare parts supply through a connected network
- Financing options through approved dealers
They don’t publish fixed prices since specs vary so much, but I found them willing to discuss custom quotes without any pressure.
Contact Info
Here’s how to reach them:
- Phone: +49 8285 88-0
- Address: Am Kögel-Werk 1, 89349 Burtenbach, Germany
Final Review
If your business depends on a trailer that doesn’t give out mid-season, Kögel is worth a closer look.
They’re especially good for logistics, construction, or container work. What I like most is that they’ve stayed close to their roots while still evolving their product line. You don’t get that balance from everyone.

4. Humbaur
Year Founded: 1957
Headquarters: Gersthofen, Germany
Leadership: Volker Nilles, Managing Director
Workforce: About 500 employees
Reach: Dealer network across Europe with strong support
I was on a job site a while ago, and one trailer stood out. It was hauling small machinery with ease. Strong. Stable. I asked the operator what brand it was. His answer? Humbaur.
Founded in 1957 in Gersthofen, Germany, Humbaur started with small trailers. Today, they’ve delivered over a million units across Europe. If you value practicality and no-fuss design, this is a brand to check out.
Trailer Portfolio
So, what kind of trailers do they make?
Here’s a quick look:
- Single-axle and tandem trailers: Compact options for lighter work
- Box trailers: Covered units to keep goods safe
- Vehicle transporters: Built for moving cars securely
- Horse trailers: Designed for safe and comfortable animal transport
Humbaur invests heavily in product development. Many of their trailers now include galvanized frames and special loading ramps. That kind of attention to real-world use makes a difference.
Support & Pricing
Wondering what kind of support you’ll get?
From my experience and what I’ve heard from others, it’s solid:
- They have a full network for service and maintenance
- Spare parts are readily available
- Dealers often offer simple payment plans or financing
They don’t have a flashy sales pitch, but that’s what I like about them. The value shows in the build, not the brochure.
Contact Info
Thinking about reaching out?
- Phone: +49 821 24929-0
- Address: Mercedesring 1, 86368 Gersthofen, Germany
Final Review
Humbaur isn’t trying to be the biggest name. Instead, they focus on doing the basics well.
Whether you’re hauling small equipment, transporting goods for your farm, or just need something reliable day in and day out, their trailers can hold up to the task.

5. Brian James Trailers
Year founded: 1979
Headquarters: Daventry, United Kingdom
Ownership: Now part of Lifco AB, a larger European group
Workforce: Around 275 employees
Reach: Dealer network throughout the UK and abroad
This UK-based company started out in 1979. They built their name in motorsports, but today they serve all kinds of transport needs. Their trailers are known for their smart designs and clean finishes. If you’re hauling something valuable, you’ll want it on something dependable. Brian James often comes up in those conversations.
Trailer Portfolio
So, what do they offer? It depends on what you need to haul.
Their trailer types include:
- Open car transporters: Lightweight and easy to tow
- Enclosed transporters: For secure, weather-protected hauling
- Flatbeds: Great for general equipment or tools
- Plant trailers: Designed for machines like diggers
- Tippers: Ideal for landscaping or loose material
They also offer clever extras like adjustable ramps, locking systems, and hydraulic tilt beds. When I first used one, I didn’t expect setup to be that fast. But it was. That saved me time on a tight schedule.
Support & Pricing
Buying a trailer is a big step. What kind of support do you get after?
With Brian James, you’ll find:
- A 5-year chassis warranty
- Spare parts available through their dealer network
- Simple, clear pricing with extras like spare wheels and delivery often included
I liked that their reps didn’t pressure me into a decision. They just walked through the options and let me think.
Contact Info
Here’s how to reach them:
- Phone: +44 1327 308833
- Address: Sopwith Way, Drayton Fields Industrial Estate, Daventry, NN11 8PB, UK
Final Review
If you’re in motorsport, construction, or simply value a well-made trailer, Brian James is a name to consider. Their trailers feel stable, look clean, and last. You can tell they’ve been designed by people who actually haul things for a living.

6. Ifor Williams Trailers
Year founded: 1958
Headquarters: Corwen, Wales
Workforce: Around 800 employees
Reach: Over 50 UK distributors plus growing sales in Europe
Ifor Williams was founded in 1958 and is still one of the largest trailer manufacturers in the UK. Farmers, contractors, and small business owners trust them for daily work. If you need a trailer that handles rough roads and constant use, this one’s worth looking into.
Trailer Portfolio
Need a trailer for a specific job? Ifor Williams probably has one.
They build:
- Livestock trailers: Designed for safe animal transport
- Horseboxes: Comfortable and secure for horses
- General-duty trailers: Great for tools, boxes, and everyday use
- Plant trailers: Handle heavy machinery like loaders and diggers
- Flatbeds and tippers: Useful for bulk goods or equipment
Support & Pricing
- A wide service network across the UK
- Access to parts directly through dealers
- Consistent build quality across their product range
Prices are usually handled by local dealers. I visited one outside Chester, and the staff walked me through options without any sales pressure. It felt more like talking to a neighbor than dealing with a salesman.
Contact Info
Here’s how to get in touch:
- Phone: +44 1490 412527
- Address: Cynwyd, Corwen, LL21 0LB, United Kingdom
Final Review
If you’re looking for something you can hook up and use without a second thought, Ifor Williams delivers. Their trailers are all about function and strength. From farms to job sites, they’re built to get things done without fuss.

7. Westfalia-Werke
Year founded: 1844
Headquarters: Rheda-Wiedenbrück, Germany
Heritage: Started as a blacksmith workshop
Focus: Campers, trailers, and towbars for personal and commercial use
Presence: Popular across Europe, with recognition in both the trailer and RV markets
Westfalia-Werke has been around a long time. Founded back in 1844 in Rheda-Wiedenbrück, Germany, it began as a simple blacksmith shop. Over time, it became known for building trailers, campers, and automotive gear that people trust. If you’ve ever seen a pop-up camper on a van, there’s a good chance it came from them.
Trailer Portfolio
So, what do they actually make?
Westfalia-Werke is best known for:
- Towbars: High-quality systems for secure towing
- Camper trailers: Compact units that combine transport and living space
- Commercial trailers: Built for small cargo and light equipment
One thing I’ve noticed about Westfalia gear is that it always feels practical. It doesn’t try to impress you with flash. Instead, it focuses on small design details that make life easier—like better storage layouts, quick hook-ups, and smart space use.
Are their trailers heavy-duty enough for construction work? Probably not. But if you need something for weekend travel, light transport, or even event setups, they’re a good fit.
Support & Pricing
Let’s move to something equally important: what happens after you buy.
Westfalia offers:
- Technical service through partner dealers
- Access to spare parts for most models
- Product manuals and installation guides online
Pricing varies depending on the product line. Most camper and trailer setups are sold through authorized dealers, so you’ll need to request a quote. When I asked for one in Cologne, the staff gave me a full breakdown, no hidden fees, just options laid out clearly.
Contact Info
Want to learn more or reach out?
- Phone: +49 5242 907-0
- Address: Westfalia-Automotive GmbH, Am Sandberg 45, 33378 Rheda-Wiedenbrück, Germany
Final Review
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty work trailer, this may not be your top pick. But if you want a reliable, lightweight solution for personal use, Westfalia is worth considering.
Their experience shows in how their products are built. I’ve seen people use them for vacations, music festivals, small business pop-ups, you name it.

Looking for a Manufacturer Outside the Europe?
Looking at European brands is a smart move but what if you still haven’t found your match?
Every business is different. Every trailer job asks for something specific.
So here’s a question, have you considered expanding your search beyond Europe?
In China, trailer manufacturers like us are building:
- Heavy-duty models for global transport
- Custom low-beds, tankers, container chassis
- Solutions for construction, mining, and logistics
At Rhinotrail, we’ve been shipping trailers worldwide for over 12 years.
We’re not in Europe but we’re ready when you’re ready. If your search feels stuck, it might be time to explore a different direction.
Conclusion
You’ve just covered a lot and you’re probably closer to a decision than you think.
We looked at 7 trusted European manufacturers, each one tested, trusted, and worth your attention.
You saw what they build, how they work, and who they’re best for. Now, it’s your turn to take the next step.
The answers are all here, you just have to act on them.
Still unsure? Contact us today. Let’s figure it out together.