5 Tips for Purchasing a Cargo Trailer

A cargo trailer can be used to carry anything from your landscaping and construction tools to a motorcycle, car, or construction vehicle. Cargo trailers can be open or enclosed and are available in a variety of materials with options ranging from a ramp door, to air-conditioning and heat, to lighting and floor covering.

There are many variables to consider when choosing the right cargo trailer for your needs. This is a list of some of the biggest factors involved in purchasing a trailer:

1. New or Used - As you search the internet or Yellow Pages, you'll find options for new and used cargo trailers. Purchasing a new trailer gives you the freedom to pick and choose from customized options offered by the company. You'll get the exact trailer you want, right from the time of purchase. Buying a used trailer may save you some money but you may be limited in adding custom options. If the company offering used trailers also offers customizable options, be sure to price out the options to make sure you're still getting a good deal on the price.

2. Enclosed or Open Deck Trailers - Can your cargo withstand the open air elements? Or would it be better served to be transported under cover? If you're in the market for a car hauler, you can choose from an open runner deck car hauler or an 8.5 foot-wide enclosed car hauler trailer. As with the car haulers, motorcycle trailers also come in both open deck and enclosed. This really depends on your needs and preferences. Other examples of open deck trailers include landscape trailers, utility trailers, deck-over, and boat trailers. Enclosed trailers include toy haulers, motorcyle trailers, concession trailers, livestock trailers, and stacker trailers.

3. Single or Tandem Axle - Cargo trailers come in single and multiple axle varieties. Single axles can accommodate a smaller size trailer such as a 5x8 foot enclosed trailer, a bicycle trailer, or an open deck motorcycle trailer. Tandem axles are appropriate for longer trailers equipped to carry heavy loads, such as a car hauler or deck over trailer. As you consider the size of the trailer you need, the choice for single or tandem axle will become more apparent.

4. Length and Width - Cargo trailers are available in a wide range of sizes from the small utility trailer or landscape trailer, to an 8.5x50 foot gooseneck enclosed trailer or a 10 ton pintle hitch tandem dually deck-over trailer. If you know the particular cargo you need to haul, you'll have a good idea of what size trailer you need. If you're hauling equipment and think you have a growing inventory, then you might want to consider purchasing a size larger than what is appropriate right now.

5. Financing Options - When shopping for a cargo trailer, you must consider cost and how it fits with your budget. Talk to trailer companies about the financing options they offer or can recommend. This is a big dollar purchase and it's important to be smart about considering all your payment options. You want to be sure it's a investment that pays off in the long run.

There are even more options to consider when shopping for a cargo trailer and these are only some of the biggest points to take into account. There are a seemingly infinite number of customizable options for cargo trailers and you'll want to do your research to make sure you get everything you need and want when you purchase your trailer.

Resources:

Rick McKeithan is owner of The Trailer Showroom and sells new cargo trailers custom manufactured to your specifications here in the USA. The open deck trailers and enclosed cargo trailers are available for pick up and limited delivery.