The Dos and Don'ts of Trailer Rentals

Trailer rentals can be a cost-effective alternative to buying a trailer, especially for temporary or one-off projects. If your job requires a certain type of trailer that you otherwise have no use for, renting a trailer is the way to go. But trailer rentals can be tricky. You want to make sure the trailer you’re getting is a high-quality piece of equipment that is right for your situation and, of course, you want to find the best price. Before you jump into a rental agreement, here are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to trailer rentals.

DO inspect the trailer.

A few things to check beforehand are the tires, bearings, hitch, brakes, electrical systems, and suspension. Also, a big one that people tend to miss is the floor. Inspect the floor according to the specific material of the trailer. For example, if the floor is metal, then look for rust. If it’s wooden, then look for rotting or bowed boards. This may not be a problem for all jobs but, if you’re hauling a considerably heavy or valuable load, this may be a significant factor. (Check out this trailer inspection checklist for more things to look out for.)

DON’T expect the trailer to be perfect.

Trailer rentals are almost always used trailers. Don’t go in expecting to get a perfect, like-new trailer. If perfection is what you’re looking for, you’ll need to pay top dollar to purchase a brand new trailer. Trailer rentals, however, provide the opportunity to save you some cash as opposed to purchasing a new trailer. A used trailer may not be perfect, but it will get the job done - and without breaking the bank too!

DO get an expert's opinion.

Trailer rentals aren't always straightforward and customers often don’t know exactly what they need. With the right trailer dealer, you won't need to concern yourself with all of the details. Look for a dealer that has a variety of used trailers for rent that range in price. Then, speak with an associate to explain what you need a trailer for and let them find the best fit to meet your needs. If you’re new to trailers in general, some dealers will help by assisting with hitching and can make any mild repairs or upgrades right onsite.

DON’T pay too much.

You shouldn’t spend more than you have to on a trailer rental. To avoid this, you can always call the trailer dealer first to discuss your options and price estimates before renting a trailer. You may need a different size than you think or there may be a different style or hitch that better suits your situation. Also, don’t overestimate the length of time that you need to rent the trailer. It is always feasible to extend your rental period if needed, so there is no reason to lock yourself into a longer than necessary rental agreement.

Jobs and projects can vary, which means the tools and equipment needed for those jobs can vary as well. Whatever job you have that requires a trailer rental, we want to make sure you have the equipment you need from a dealer you trust. That’s why we offer quality and affordable trailer rentals to all of our new and loyal customers.