5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Dump Trailer

Before investing in a dump trailer, there are a few things to keep in mind before taking the plunge and making a purchase. Understanding what you’ll be using the dump trailer for specifically can help narrow down your decisions. Whether you’re looking at used trailers, buying one “off the lot,” or looking to custom build a dump trailer, there are many options. Here at Tropic Trailer, we don’t want you to drive away with a dump trailer that won’t get the job done. Before spending any extra money or time, we came up with this list of five things you should consider before buying a dump trailer. 

Weight and Capacity

To get the best use out of your dump trailer, you should first know which capacity your tow vehicle has, which can be found in the owner’s manual, and tell you how much weight you can pull. Please make note that the capacity also includes the weight of the trailer itself. The average empty weight of a standard dump trailer is roughly 4,500 pounds, and the average load capacity reaching nearly 12,400 pounds. If you plan on pulling gravel, mulch, or other material, you need a trailer that can haul the load capacity as well as a vehicle that can handle both the trailer and the load. Ask a professional about which trailers are rated best for the load’s weight to be hauled. The light your trailer, the more cargo weight it can hold. 

Size 

Which size dump trailer is best for you? The size you decide on will most likely depend on the type of work you plan to use it for. Dump trailers can range from 8 ft. to 30 ft. in length. Typically, the most common size for a dump trailer spans up to 14 ft. in length because of its ability to heavy-duty haul while still moving around easily. Also, consider the types of roads you’ll be driving on; if it’s tough terrain, you might want a smaller trailer, but if your load tends to be on the higher end, you need a dump trailer that can hold its weight. 

Material and Finishes

You can choose between aluminum, steel, or galvanized steel when deciding on a dump trailer. Aluminum tends to be the preferable choice, even though it’s a bit pricier. Aluminum is a lighter material and less likely to rust or experience corrosion. You can surpass the regular paint job by galvanizing your trailer — a process where the trailer is submersed in zinc metal, basically a rust-resistant chemical bath. Galvanizing will thoroughly coat the trailer to provide a barrier from the inside of the tube frames to the nooks and crannies. Galvanization isn’t a cheap process, but it will ensure your trailer’s lifespan and resale value as it prevents moisture and corrosive chlorides and sulfides from attacking the steel. 

Lifting Mechanism 

What type of lifting mechanism will you need? Several choices include a telescopic-style hydraulic lift, a dual-piston style, and a scissor-lift. A telescopic hydraulic lift typically mounts on the center-front of the box and will lift the box to its dumping angle on just one cylinder. A dual-piston lift uses two pistons to lift the dump trailer. The scissor-lift is one of the most popular mechanisms with manufacturers, and it costs less. Just one cylinder works like a scissor for maximum leverage while dumping and spreads out the footprint, which is useful for uneven loads.

Design

Consider other features of your ultimate dump trailer, such as the axles needed to handle your cargo, the height of the sidewalls or ramps, and wheels. Dump trailers on a smaller scale might be okay with a single axle, but dual axles can help take on large-scale loads. The height of the sidewalls depends on what materials you plan on hauling. Higher sidewalls are best for gravel, topsoil, and other loose materials. Shorter walls tend to be more flexible but aren’t as efficient in holding such loose material.

Investing in the right dump trailer can help your business go a long way. Before deciding which dump trailer to go with, think about our five suggested considerations before purchasing. From size and capacity to weight and design, you can choose from a used dump trailer or a brand new one you can customize from the ground up. From boat trailers to car haulers, dump trailers, and much more, as the most extensive equipment trailer dealer in Florida, we’re sure to have the trailer you need. Contact us today or stop by any of our two locations. We’re happy to help you with your trailer journey!