Undeniably, cargo trailers are the most efficient means for transporting items safely. If you are planning to invest in one of them, it isn’t a wise idea to buy a new or a used one before doing some homework. Just because someone you know invested in an 8.5 x20 enclosed trailer, that doesn’t mean you should do it too.
As you know, these trailers are available in a wide array of sizes, shapes, and features. Therefore, contemplating the one that suits your purpose would require you to invest quality time to bag the best deal. For someone, who is considering buying a cargo trailer for the first time, we have handpicked the points that should help you out in making the right call.
The usage
A cargo trailer would hardly help satisfy your purpose if you are unsure of how you are planning to use it. For example, if you own a small business, you do not require a monster-sized trailer. Similarly, if your business involves transporting heavy and large items, you will have to consider a big trailer.
A closed cargo trailer can be expensive in comparison to the open cargo trailers. If the items you transport require protection from the natural elements, then an enclosed trailer is right for you, else the open ones will not only cater for your requirements but will also save your precious money.
Don’t forget about business expansion
Don’t limit the buying criteria based on your current business model only. After a few months or some years, the business can scale newer heights. In such a scenario, you might again have to consider buying another cargo trailer. Instead, consider buying a trailer that has the provision of extra space right from the beginning. Yes, it will put pressure on your purse, but in the long run, the decision will reap you rich dividends.
Budget
Based on the points mentioned above, you should plan the budget. When you have a precise idea of the purpose for which you will be using the trailer, you will know the size that best suits your needs. We recommend keeping a higher budget considering the growth of your business. For the hobbyists though, a smaller trailer should be enough.
Well, that finalizes your initial plan. Now, you are ready to make the purchase, and here is the next set of points worth considering.
The construction type
Inspect the trailer from the inside at first. The frame is one of the utmost important aspects as it will bear the brunt of the trailer’s load. Generally, the construction of cargo trailers can be of either steel or aluminum. To elaborate further, they are visible in L-shaped, C-channel beams, I-beams, and tubular. Inspect the one that has the most chunk of the metal, as these are the ones known for robustness. Configuration of the beams is equally important. Cross beams that can sustain the heaviest of loads are the best ones to go for.
The number of axles
For hurling smaller loads, a cargo trailer with a single axle should be sufficient. As you can expect, these are ideal for small businesses. Its advantage is the single-axle trailers without any need of investing in a heavy-duty trailer which eventually saves your money considerably.
Such single axle trailers are ideal if the load you will transport does not exceed more than three thousand pounds. However, for heavier loads, you must avail the services of multiple axle trailers. These heavy-duty trailers will distribute the weight put on them evenly. Furthermore, it will offer much-needed shock absorption and good control when running on the road.
The size
Earlier, we talked about how the purpose of your business determines the size of the trailer, and that you should also keep an eye on the business expansion. The most feasible selection would be the ones that are eight and a half feet wide and sixteen feet deep. Since you are taking into account the future business growth, we would suggest going for a multiple axle cargo trailer.
The doors
Again, based on the items you are hauling, you should determine the style of the doors on the cargo trailers. Ramp doors are the best for heavier loads, like 4×4 vehicles or snowmobiles. If the purpose of the cargo trailer is to transport inventory that is lighter, the barn doors would be more advantageous.
Features
The entry-level trailers are not meant for business owners. Therefore, those in the transportation business need to go the extra mile inspecting the salient features of the trailer. To start off, the thickness of the outer skin can make a world of difference. Thicker ones will offer the best safety from natural elements and burglars. Likewise, the roof of the trailer is yet another vital aspect to consider.
Generally, trailers come with either flat or rounded roofs. The flat ones come with a limited interior ceiling while the rounded ones offer more. Lastly, the air conditioning facility is equally imperative if you are dealing with the transportation of perishable goods. Moreover, you get the added advantage of transforming the trailer into your workstation when it is not operating on the roads.
Tiers should complement the size of the trailer. If you are buying a used trailer, and need to replace the tires mention the type of cargo you will transport, and it will determine the right type of tires. Usually, the tires of trailers are sturdy. Nevertheless, after assessing the driving conditions, and the frequency of operation, you may have to opt for specialized tires.
Prefer utility over the killer looks
You have the option of customizing the cargo trailer as per your requirements. Thus, do not let the look of a trailer influence your buying decision. Durability is the key to success for your business. Ultimately, your aim is to own a cargo trailer that offers maximum protection against heat, rain, storms, and snow.
The bottom line
By checking each of the above points, you should be able to get the right trailer for your requirements. Without a doubt, with the right enclosed cargo trailer at your disposal, your business will skyrocket within a short period.