Tips to Select the Right Trailer Model
If you want to transport cargo safely and efficiently, you should get yourself a trailer. However, there are a lot of different types on the market and even longtime trailer users can sometimes get confused about which one is the right fit for their needs. As your leading trailer dealer in Hewitt, TX, Flat Rock Trailers wants to make things easier for you. That’s why we’ve compiled this buying guide below. If you’re looking for trailers for sale near Waco or Killeen, contact us and have a chat with one of our expert staff members!
Your Budget
First, take your finances into account. When you establish a budget before you go shopping, you won’t waste time looking at models that are too expensive. You also will have a better understanding of the features, specs and accessories that will fall within your budget. If you don’t want to spend too much, you can check out used models, which (thanks to depreciation) are much lower in cost. Smaller trailers will also cost less and be less expensive to tow because they’re lighter and will require less fuel to haul.
Tow Vehicle
You also have to factor in what vehicle you’ll be using to tow your trailer. You should check its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which tells you the maximum weight the vehicle can tow. This includes the trailer, the cargo, the hitch weight, and any passengers. You want to get a trailer that is much lighter than the GVWR of the tow vehicle so you can fit more cargo into it.
Legal Restrictions
You’ll have to take into account the laws and regulations of your state and any state you’ll be going to or through. States have laws about the maximum length a trailer can be. For example, the maximum trailer length in Colorado is 28 feet and 6 inches. Before you buy a trailer, make sure you know the legal restrictions.
Hitch Style
Most trailers come with two types of hitch options. A bumper-pull hitch sticks out behind the tow vehicle, which creates a small gap between the two vehicles when they’re joined together. These hitches tend to be more affordable and can be used with a wider range of vehicle options. Gooseneck hitches get installed directly into a truck bed. This limits your tow vehicle options and costs more, but it offers better control and stability.
Enclosed vs Open
The kinds of cargo you’ll be moving will determine whether you should get an open or enclosed trailer. Open trailers do not offer protection, but they are easier to load. They usually run closer to the ground, so you won't need to lift items as high. They are also usually more affordable. This style is ideal for cargo that you simply need to strap onto a surface and drive to your destination. Enclosed trailers offer protection from poor weather and theft. This style is ideal for expensive and/or delicate cargo.
Height & Length
You also have to determine the length and height of the trailer you’ll get. This is essential because different kinds of cargo require different amounts of space. For example, when you tow a powersports vehicle, you just need space enough for the vehicle with a little extra space to move around it. If you’re hauling things packed in cardboard boxes which can be stacked one on top of the other, you can use a taller trailer.
Trip Distance
If you need a trailer strictly for personal use and for short trips within your city or town, a small trailer should be enough to meet your needs. If you’re planning to make some money off your trailer or take longer trips out of town or state, you’ll want a larger trailer that can accommodate more and not require you to make multiple trips.
We hope this information comes in handy during your selection process! For more help or if you’re ready to check out trailers for sale in Hewitt, TX, get in touch with us at Flat Rock Trailers and we’ll show you what we have in stock! We’re proud to be the preferred trailer dealer for Waco and Killeen!