Just like with a vehicle or other equipment, it is important to research before purchasing a utility trailer. It can help ensure that the trailer fits your needs well and that you understand the basic terminology. For example, you will want to ensure that the trailer fits your size and durability needs and matches your vehicle’s towing capabilities.
How They Work
Whether a landscaper hauling equipment from property to property or an outdoor enthusiast packing up your ATV for the weekend, a utility trailer makes your job much easier. These multi-use trailers are designed to carry loads ranging from light furniture dollies to heavy equipment like zero-turn mowers. When shopping for a new utility trailer, look beyond the shiny paint job and pick one designed to fit your needs. Consider the size, weight, and capacity of the cargo you need to haul and your vehicle’s towing capability. The load capacity of a trailer is typically posted on the tire and loading information label or in the owner’s manual. The tires on a utility trailer are usually radial or bias-ply tires. Radial tires are similar to the tires on your vehicle and have polyester cords laid around a rubber core. This design increases the efficiency and durability of the tire and reduces the chances of a blowout.
Size
Whether you’re an outdoor sporting enthusiast who wants to transport an ATV to your cabin or just a regular homeowner who needs to haul some equipment from one side of the house to another, having the right trailer can make life much easier. Most utility trailers have a flat floor, making loading and unloading your gear easier. They can also be equipped with metal flooring, which is more durable than traditional wood flooring and is easy to clean. If you plan to use a utility trailer with your vehicle, make sure your vehicle’s hitch is rated for its weight capacity and compatible with the type of trailer you want to buy. It’s also good to ask friends and neighbors about their experience with a particular trailer company and check popular review websites. You can find a utility trailer for sale to fit your needs, including open and enclosed models. Enclosed trailers offer more protection from weather and debris but are typically more expensive than available trailers.
Weight
Many different factors go into determining the load capacity of a trailer. It includes things like its GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and its Payload Weight, the maximum amount of cargo it can hold safely. The best way to find out exactly how much a trailer can carry is by checking its data plate, which should be located on the tongue or somewhere else on the frame. It will show you the maximum load capacity, the number of axles it has, and its overall weight. Another factor determining a trailer’s load capacity is its construction and materials. Utility trailers typically use fewer materials and have simpler mechanisms than other types, which makes them lighter, meaning they put less strain on your vehicle. It can help save on maintenance costs in the long run and improve gas mileage.
Warranty
Just like any other vehicle or piece of equipment, trailers need to be inspected and maintained regularly. It can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in the long run. Look for any dents or scratches on the trailer’s body and cracks or fractures in the frame, axles, and flooring. It can signify an extra load or the trailer involved in an accident. A basic utility trailer will have a platform, a tailgate, two wheels, and guardrails around the outside. These trailers are designed to haul different equipment and supplies, as well as ATVs or other vehicles. For more storage space, consider a flatbed trailer. These feature a flat surface, making loading and unloading easier for some types of equipment. They are also suitable for more demanding jobs and can accommodate different sizes of towing vehicles.
Maintenance
A trailer is a big investment and needs maintenance. The trailer owner can perform some duties, but it is advisable to leave others to the experts. Routine cleaning and washing are important to keep corrosion to a minimum on the trailer’s lighting and hardware. Corrosion will not only look ugly, but it can also cause a short circuit that could result in the lights or wiring not working. Tires are another thing to keep an eye on. If the tread is worn down, driving the trailer on the road becomes unsafe. It is also a safety hazard and could be a reason for the police to pull you over. Lubricating the moving parts on your trailer can reduce friction. Sealed components like wheel bearings require a higher quality lubricant. Other moving parts may need a lighter application of graphite or white lithium lubricant that won’t attract and trap the dirt on the trailer.
Materials
When buying a trailer for your business, you want something that will last. You also need to be able to get parts easily when you need them. You should also ensure that you can get a warranty for your trailer and that it is made from high-quality materials. Many utility trailers are constructed with aluminum or steel. They can be used for various purposes, from hauling equipment and tools to transporting personal belongings. Some are even designed to carry large equipment and vehicles. Some types of utility trailers are also designed to be light enough for use in the construction industry. They are typically built with a flat platform and can be loaded with debris such as gravel, dirt, or mulch. They can also have a ramp for easy loading and unloading of heavier equipment.
