Trailers and Their Uses

There are so many different types of trailers with different makes and models. The overwhelming choices make it challenging to know which one will fit your specific needs. A few things to consider when purchasing your trailer are axle size, towing strength, and features necessary for your job use. There is also the factor of renting or buying, and which option will be most economical. For your convenience, we laid out different types of trailers we carry at Tropic Trailer and how they can fit your lifestyle for work or play.

Boat Trailer

While it already states it in the name, these trailers are for boat hauling. Although, there are many more factors to pick the right one. Before purchasing your trailer, you should consider the boat’s wet weight. Wet weight is the ship’s weight with the added fuel, engine, and equipment. Your trailer needs to be sturdy enough to hold all of the weight safely. The material of the frame also plays a huge factor. Saltwater can corrode many materials, so picking the suitable metal is imperative to the longevity of your trailer.

Flatbed Trailer

A flatbed trailer is for you if you are often hauling stuff with unusual shapes and sizes. A flatbed trailer could carry tires, building materials, equipment, or machinery parts. Although, flatbed trailers are not only for work. They are also used for more unique and fun uses like parades or even building tiny homes. Whatever you decide to haul on your open flatbed equipment trailer, be sure to check with your trailer dealer about safe weight limits.

Cargo Trailer

Cargo trailers are one of the most common many-use trailers. Cargo trailers are typically used for storage, usually planted next to a garage or behind the house for tools. While they are great for extra storage, their primary use is on the road. Cargo trailers are for traveling lawn care companies, plumbers, and general contractors for businesses. For recreation, they often carry camping gear or transport smaller recreational vehicles like motorcycles, bikes, or four-wheelers.

Utility Trailer

Utility trailers are incredibly versatile, just like the cargo trailer. Besides the fun use of a fall hayride, utility trailers can haul lawn care items, supplies, and recreational vehicles. One of the few differences between a utility and cargo trailer is the enclosure factor with all of their similarities. A utility trailer is for items you will not be locking up overnight. The lock of a cargo trailer also makes the price astronomically different. So if you plan on keeping your things locked up in a garage or warehouse overnight, the utility trailer may be the more economical option.

Car Hauler

With the apparent name, a car hauler hauls multiple cars. It can also be responsible for other motor vehicles. The most important thing to think about when buying a car hauler trailer is the amount of weight the trailer can hold. Many car haulers have the specified amount of weight they can carry listed in the description. One tip for safety is to level the trailer using wheel chocks. Safety is number one when considering this type of trailer because of the liability of hauling many vehicles you probably do not own.

Livestock Trailer

These trailers move livestock like cows, horses, pigs, and sheep to different locations. Like the car hauler or any trailer, the safety of these trailers is essential, considering you are carrying live creatures. This trailer is another case where one of the most critical features of the trailer depends on weight and balance. Pro tip: if you plan to purchase a livestock trailer, make sure the animals can not hang their heads outside of the trailer, as this could be a safety issue for both you and them.

Dump Trailer

These trailers use hydraulics to move the items you’re hauling, typically construction waste from roofing, junk removal, and natural materials like sand, dirt, or snow. This trailer is very convenient for those who don’t have time to heavy lift or unload the trailer into the dumpster. Dump trailers also prevent the possibility of splinters, loose nails, or any other safety issues that can arise from unloading a trailer.

General Trailer Safety Check

Before darting off on your journey in any one of the above trailers, always make the following checklist: trailer brakes, safety chains, wheel bearings, battery, lights, electrical connections, lug nuts, and tire pressure. Wiring should also not be touching the road but loose enough to make turns. Last but not least, ensure that your weight distribution is even and that visibility is not impaired.

Whatever kind of trailer you choose (renting or buying), weight, size, and maintenance are all main priorities. Tropic Trailer is here to help you find the best trailer fit for your needs and for any maintenance that your trailer may require. If you have any questions regarding the type of trailer you need or just want to chat about prices, we are here to help with our friendly customer service.