With so many different types, sizes, and functions to choose from, how do you make sure you’re getting the right trailer for you? Today we are going to look at how you should try to go about choosing which trailer you buy for functionality, practicalities to consider including storage & loading, and how your intended towing vehicle can affect your trailer of choice.
Why Do You Need A Trailer?
So, lets tackle the big question at the start, and the most likely reason you’re reading this in the first place - why you need a trailer. Trailers can come in loads of shapes, sizes and functions - from a boat trailer to a horse box and everything in between. But we are going to focus on utility trailers, this category covers the most diverse range of trailers where your requirements of the trailer will have a big impact on the trailer you choose to buy. For example, will you be moving furniture, transporting gravel, or maybe even moving vehicles? Each of which will require a very different style of trailer to ensure its optimum performance.
You should always keep the purpose of your trailer in mind when searching for your next trailer. Some important things to consider are:
- The size of the trailer: The length and width not only effect how much room there is inside the trailer, but also how safe the trailer is on the road. The bed height of the trailer should also be considered, including ow you will get things in and out of your trailer.
- Load capacity: The loading capacity is another key consideration when choosing a trailer for purpose. Think about how much you will be putting in the trailer, and whether the trailer is up to the job. (Remember your towing vehicle must also be capable of towing the intended load).
- Trailer Features: By features we are talking about ramps, sides, tops, and tailgates. Will you need your trailer to have any, some, or all of these to meet your needs?
How Will You Tow Your Trailer?
Your method of towing the trailer will also play a key role in they type of trailer you choose, and more specifically the limitations of the trailer. Each vehicle type and size will have different towing capacities which can usually be found in the owner’s manual. You will also have to ensure your towing vehicle is fit for towing; it will need the correct equipment installed i.e. A tow ball and electrical connection and be in safe working order to tow a trailer.
You should consider the following when choosing your trailer:
- What type of vehicle will tow it: Will it be a car, a van, or maybe even a truck? This will usually affect the size and weight of the trailer you can tow, but you should also think about the functionality of the trailer, is it going to be put in place of a van? In which case you will be wanting to recreate the same inside space so it might be worth getting a box trailer.
- How far will the trailer be towed: Depending on the distance you will be towing the trailer you will need to consider any possible coverings the trailer might need, how easy it is to maintain, and how easy it is to manoeuvre and tow. If you plan on towing your trailer for long distances you need to make sure it is comfortable to tow so you able to concentrate on driving at all times without distraction.
- Is fuel economy a factor: Towing a trailer will ultimately affect the fuel efficiency, if this is a big issue you will need to consider getting a trailer which is built for higher fuel efficiency, this will usually be a smaller trailer with less air resistance. You should also think about the types of road you intend to travel on – will it be fast or slow roads?
You need to get a trailer which is well suited to your towing vehicle so you should think about the following in terms of your towing vehicle and trailer match:
- The limitations of your vehicle: These are usually stated clearly in the owner’s manual of your towing vehicle. You should check for braking capacities and loading capacities to ensure these aren’t being exceeded with your trailer of choice.
- Hitching type: The type of hitch you have/will have on your towing vehicle will need to match the style of hitch on your trailer to ensure there is a strong enough linkage between the vehicle and trailer.
- Braking: The braking of your trailer is possibly one of the most important considerations to make in terms of safety. If you are opting for a larger trailer you are most likely to come across some form of assisted braking. The same vehicle will usually be able to tow larger trailers with brakes than those without them, you will find the limitations for each in your vehicle owner’s manual.
Storing Your Trailer
Sometimes you can find the perfect trailer, but it just doesn’t quite fit where we intend to store them. However, this is obviously a very important thing to think about before you purchase your shiny new trailer. You should make sure your trailer fits in length, width, and height while still allowing enough room for manoeuvring the trailer. You should also make sure you have any trailer protection you might need, including security items and covers for when it is being stored. Different neighbourhood areas will have varying rules on the storage or trailers, so it is great idea to make sure you are complying with these at all times, so you’re not surprised with a nasty fine!
