Cargo trailer buyers face several decisions in selecting the trailer that will meet their specific needs. Sorting through all the potential types of trailers and their options can seem like a daunting task. Using this guide to become familiar with cargo trailer options and features can help the buyer make an informed decision and simplify the process of searching for the ideal trailer to make those hauling projects easier. When contemplating the purchase of a cargo trailer, the primary consideration of the buyer should be how the trailer will be used. The cargo to be hauled by the trailer will determine the style and specifications that are most appropriate to the type of trailer needed for the job. The expected load weight is also a significant item to be factored in. Cargo trailers can carry everything from junk to fine vintage automobiles; beautiful horses, or the hay to feed them. Whatever the load, the trailer must provide safe and reliable transportation of the cargo to its destination.

While an open flat bed trailer will carry the hay to the horse, no one would consider transporting a horse on such a platform. Buyers should take into account the advantages and disadvantages of open vs. enclosed trailers when deciding to shop for a cargo trailer. Enclosed cargo trailerss are ideal for transporting items that must be protected from the elements. Additionally, enclosed trailers can be locked and secured, like a portable warehouse, should it be necessary to park the trailer and leave it unattended. Enclosed trailers come in several styles and configurations that can be specially designed for the intended cargo. Cargo can be transported in enclosed trailers that provide ventilation, specific compartment designs, and creature safety considerations. Enclosed trailers can be equipped with swing open rear doors for easy entry or a fold down rear door to allow cargo to be driven or rolled in. Side access doors are another useful feature to consider in selecting the most useful and convenient enclosed trailer.

Single axle trailers are sufficient for hauling most common household or small business payloads. A single axle trailer, as the name implies, has one axle with a wheel attached to both sides and springs or a fixed attachment to the trailer bed. Trailers without springs will have the trailer bed attached directly to the axle with clamps or supporting hardware. Braun Blender Vs VitamixTrailers without springs provide a stiffer ride; Datac Ac Unitthe solid axle transmits shock from either wheel. House For Sale On Broadway North WalsallTherefore, if the left trailer wheel hits a bump, the jolt is transferred through the axle to the right side as well. A trailer without springs will tend to bounce the load more, since the only thing cushioning the trailer’s load from road shock is the tires.

Trailers with springs most often use torsion bars or leaf springs near each wheel; these springs attach the axle to the trailer bed and provide independent shock absorption for each wheel. Trailers with springs cushion the load and provide a more stable ride with less road shock over bumps. The maximum weight capacity of a single axle trailer should be limited to 2,500 to 3,000 pounds. Buyers expecting to carry in excess of 3,000 pounds should consider purchasing a dual axle trailer. The two axles are usually placed in close proximity to each other at the center (front to rear) of the trailer. The position of the axles helps to disperse the weight load of the cargo and still provide shock absorption as well as increased maneuverability of the trailer. Dual axle trailers with the wheels closer to the rear of the trailer bed put more weight on the tongue or front of the trailer and will require a vehicle with greater towing capacity to pull the extra tongue weight. Dual axle trailers frequently have fenders over the wheels to minimize road debris from being propelled upward by the tires.

Fenders are especially useful in adverse weather conditions. Additional axles are an option if the buyer intends to carry loads of excessive weight or length. When it comes to purchasing a trailer that is properly equipped, buyers should remember to look for important safety and convenience features. If hauling heavy loads is a job the trailer is expected to perform, trailer brakes will be a necessary piece of safety equipment. Other factors to take into account include the trailer’s safety and convenience lighting, as well as the type of ramp or rear closure the trailer is to be equipped with. When transporting loads in excess of 3,000 pounds, it is advisable to have a trailer equipped with trailer brakes. Some states require trailer brakes at specific load capacities. Buyers should check with their local Department of Motor Vehicles for trailer equipment and licensing requirements applicable to the state in which they reside. Exterior trailer lighting is a safety requirement and most cargo trailers come suitably equipped.

Enclosed cargo trailer interior lighting is a convenience that buyers who use their trailers in the evening can really appreciate. Not all enclosed trailers offer interior lighting. If interior convenience lighting is important, be sure to ask if the cargo trailer being considered comes equipped with this feature. The actual tie down straps used to secure loads will usually need to be purchased separately from the trailer. However, it is important that a cargo trailer has tie down hooks that are placed properly to secure the anticipated load. For example, a buyer looking for an enclosed cargo trailer to haul a classic car will probably want tie down hooks in the floor of the trailer to secure the car during transport. Inquire as to the position of tie down hooks before making a purchase. Also inquire as to the load capacity of the tie down hooks if hauling heavy items is something the cargo trailer will be used for. Buyers who plan to use their cargo trailer to haul a vehicle should consider the type of ramp or rear closure they want on the hauler.