Shopping for a utility trailer, whether new or used, requires some planning and research. You need to consider every possible use you may have for the trailer, along with any issues you may foresee. The following guide can help you pick out the best trailer for your needs.
Do you need to cover your load?
Enclosed versus open is the primary concern with any new purchase. While some needs for an enclosed trailer are obvious, such as if you need one for livestock, others can be more challenging to determine. For example, if you frequently need to leave valuable items in your trailer, such as tools or landscaping equipment, you may be worried about theft. An enclosed trailer may solve this problem, but it may make it difficult to use the trailer for more general hauling. If this kind of dual usage is posing a challenge, consider an open trailer, perhaps with removal sides, that had a built in lockable tool storage box near the trailer tongue or along the side rails.
Will you be hauling vehicles?
You likely know that you need a car or toy hauler if that is your primary load, but the choice is more challenging if you are simply shopping for a versatile trailer that can haul a vehicle when necessary but is also available for other types of use. In this case, you may want to opt for an aluminum or steel trailer, since those with wood decks can become stained from auto fluids. Make sure the trailer is wide enough and rated to hold the maximum size of vehicle you can foresee hauling. Also, choosing a trailer with removable vehicle ramps or rails is also a plus, since this makes it easier to get a vehicle onto the trailer.
Do you need brakes?
For those that only expect to be carrying light loads, such as yard waste or scrap hauling, a single axle trailer may be a sufficient choice. Keep in mind that many single axle trailers do not have brakes. Just make sure to check weight laws in your state, since you may be required to have brakes if you haul loads over a certain limit. For heavier loads, tandem axles may be the best choice. These trailers always come with brakes. Electric brakes are suitable for most types of loads and are the most common choice on tandem axle trailers, as well as being the type that is available to be added on to a single axle trailer. Hydraulic surge brakes are also available, but they are usually an unnecessary expense unless you plan to use the trailer with several different vehicles that don't have compatible electrical brake boxes. Contact a trailer sales company like http://www.hillsboroindustries.com for more help.
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