Michael Snow is the CEO of TrailersPlus and in the article below, Michael Snow gives some pointers in helping would-be trailer buyers select the right vehicle for their needs.
Knowing that a trailer is needed is easy. The challenging part is finding just the right utility trailer for current projects or long-term needs.
Michael Snow of TrailersPlus explains that if there isn’t a big truck or gas-guzzling SUV available, a utility trailer can to do everything from pick up landscaping equipment to bring home a nice flea market find.
Whether a contractor or an excavator, a farmer or just planning a move, picking the right size of a utility trailer is key. Just following our utility trailer size essential buying guide.
First, Be Sure You Know Exactly What You’ll Haul
Michael Snow of TrailersPlus says before buying a utility trailer, double-check what its need it for. It’s easy to underestimate the weight of a haul or overlook the fact that certain items are too bulky, wide, or long for different types of trailers.
Is a trailer needed to simply haul a lawnmower or a couch, or is one needed to accommodate loose debris or dirt? Does it need a ramp because the haul is an ATV or bigger lawn equipment?
In addition, flat-bed utility trailers are good for heavy loads when there isn’t a concern about weather or security. Michael Snow of TrailersPlus notes that if those two are major concerns, consider an enclosed utility trailer.
Many utility trailers also come with different types of tailgates and bars, allowing customization to suit a range of needs. Add-on items to utility trailers are also available, including fold-up ramps, rear support jacks, a spare tire mount, and decks with different types of wood.
Pay Close Attention to Your Size and Weight Needs
Michael Snow of TrailersPlus says don’t worry if perfect measurements of the cargo size are not available. Generally, trailer companies recommend figuring out the best estimate and then adding about 2 feet to it to safely accommodate your cargo. The extra help will go a long way as far as accomplishing a comfortable haul.
Weight is a bit more important to think about. Have a close-to-exact estimate of the weight of your hall to protect it effectively, as well as avoid damage to a car and other drivers on the road. Michael Snow of TrailersPlus says if the chosen trailer choose cannot accommodate a cargo’s weight, it can be severely damaged.
Utility Trailer Sizes Typically Available
There are probably more types of utility trailers available than most know. A utility trailer company may have dozens to offer in a range of sizes and special features.
Common utility trailer sizes include standard ones ranging from 4 feet to 8 ½ feet. Popular dimensions include 6-by-12, 5-by-8, and 6-by-10. Others that are commonly seen include sizes ranging from 10 to 24 feet long and a deck that’s 82 inches wide.
There are tandem axles and single axles, and they usually come in capacities between 3,500 pounds and 7,000 pounds according to Michael Snow of TrailersPlus. There are usually tandem utilities also available, as well as trailers specifically designed to accommodate heavy-duty equipment.
Some come with railings on the sides of varying heights while some lay flat and look like elevated decks.
Evaluate Brakes and Towing
If towing a heavy load, Michael Snow of TrailersPlus explains that it will take longer for the trailer to stop. If a separate braking system is needed, the size of a utility trailer may be impacted. The vehicle size and its towing capacity will also likely dictate a utility trailer size.
While every car can tow a utility trailer, make sure a hitch’s weight rating is larger than the trailer’s weight when it’s loaded.
What Fits What
Michael Snow of TrailersPlus explains that a 4-by-7 foot utility trailer usually has a weight limit of about 1,7770 pounds and is great for tools and small lawnmowers. With a 5-by-8 foot trailer, there’s room for bulkier items such as beds and some furniture.
If a ramp is needed, a 5-by-9 footer with a weight limit of 1,650 can easily accommodate larger items, especially large landscaping tools. If the haul is large items like ATVs and golf carts, a 6-by-12 foot trailer can accommodate 2.670 pounds.
How Much Do They Cost?
Because there are tons of varieties of utility trailers, prices will also vary wildly. Renting one can run you anywhere from $50 to $100 a day depending on the size.
Smaller trailers, such as those 5-by-8 or 4-by-7 range up to $1,500. Larger single-axle trailers go up to around $4,000 and adding commercial-grade features bumps up the price as much as $4,000 more.
And utility trailers that are high commercial quality? That’ll be $10,000 or more.
