5 Things to Consider When Buying an Enclosed Trailer
Buying an enclosed cargo trailer is a big buy and, in turn, a big investment. You want to be sure to select the equipment that meets your needs and will last you a long time. From moving your toys to moving your family, the right enclosed trailer will make your life so much easier. Before you buy, think about all the activities, projects, and places your enclosed trailer will experience. Consider the terrain, weather, and environments you’ll put it through. Your lifestyle and preferences are key when deciding on the right trailer for you; knowing how you will use it and what you will put it through will help you determine how these five factors will affect your purchase.
1. Exterior Layer Material
Aluminum is the most common material used in the construction of an enclosed trailer. The thicker the aluminum skin, the more durable the enclosed trailer will be now and after use. You will see some cargo trailers fitted with steel siding — sure, it might be cheaper, but it has the potential to rust, crack, and increase your trailer's weight. Some trailers built with .024 aluminum skin, but a more rigid and thicker skin such as .030, will hold up better in the long run. The thickness of the skin won’t be noticeable to the naked eye, so be sure to ask your salesperson the specifics.
2. Interior and Floor Finish
A reliable enclosed trailer is well-built inside and out. One clue to an excellent trailer is the quality of the interior. You want your walls and floors structured with REAL plywood: it’s sturdy and reliable. You’ll see low-quality trailers fitted with cheaper material such as particleboard, which is more likely to crack, break and damage while hauling. Best case, you want to look for walls lined with ⅜” plywood and floors lined with ¾” plywood. A plywood interior not only looks better but will also last you haul after haul.
3. Wall Stud Spacing
When inspecting a potential trailer, ask what the spacing of the wall studs are. The more studs and the closer together they are placed will determine how sturdy the sidewalls are. Driving down a bumpy road can cause your sidewalls to flex and warp with the trailer's movement. Typically, you want to look for stud spacing around 16 inches apart to ensure stronger walls within your enclosed trailer. You’re spending the money and making the investment, so you’ll want to be sure it will rise to the challenge where ever you take your trailer.
4. Rear Door: Ramp vs. Barn Doors
Deciding on the type of door you want will ultimately depend on your specific needs, lifestyle, and personal preference. Barn doors are easy to open and close, are more advantageous when you have less room to back in, and they provide more storage room against the doors. So, if you’re loading up for a cross-country move, barn doors are a good option! Ramps are useful for wheeling or walking directly into the trailer without stepping up onto the bed. If you go for a ramp door, be sure it’s spring-assisted both for your safety and for convenience. Have lots of mobile toys? Ramps are great for driving straight into the trailer without having to lug around a detachable ramp.
5. Paint and Sealant Layer
To ensure your investment will last in all elements, it’s a good idea to evaluate the paint and primer used to finish off your enclosed trailer. Don’t just focus on the pretty color. Any water that seeps into your trailer can damage the trailer itself as well as the cargo your hauling. A wrap-around aluminum roof is a practical option for protecting your trailer from weather damage, but paint and primer that repels water is also acceptable. When hunting for your enclosed trailer, ask your salesperson about the water and corrosion resistance of any trailer you check out.
The quality of a trailer is only as good as the materials used in building it. By making an informed decision when looking for a new trailer, you can be sure that your investment will last you through whatever elements, adventure, or excursion you take it on. Do your research, decide what you want to use the trailer for, ask the right questions, and consider these five things while hunting for your next cargo trailer. Ready to make the investment? Connect with Tropic Trailer to find the right enclosed trailer for your lifestyle.