If you are considering buying a trailer and are overwhelmed by the choices you have and feeling lost, you are in the right place! While there are many different kinds of utility trailer types they each have their own benefits.
Keep reading to learn more about the different types of trailers to help you make an informed decision before making your purchase.
Enclosed Trailers
These types of trailers have a container to enclose the load, hence where the name enclosed trailers comes from. This type of trailer is similar to a flatbed trailer except that it keeps whatever it is transporting safe from the outside environment.
There are many uses for utility trailers that are enclosed. From transporting tools to band equipment it can carry just about everything that fits inside of it. Because there are so many choices of what can be transported in this type of trailer this is a very popular option when it comes to choosing a utility trailer.
If you need to transport items that need protection from the weather or any other security threats then you might want to consider choosing an enclosed trailer.
Flatbed Trailers
These are some of the most common types of trailers used because they are also versatile. They can transport anything from lumber to vehicles to steel coils. These trailers are open on all sides which means that they do not offer whatever is being shipped to be safe from the weather outside.
If you do not need to protect whatever you are transporting safe from mother nature then you might want to consider a flatbed. Flatbeds are also easier to load up and to off-load. Loads can even be picked up by a crane from the top or from the sides by a forklift.
You also have the option of covering your load with a tarp if you ever find yourself having to cover a load for a certain reason. Keep in mind that this does not involve throwing any old tarp over your load and off you go. There are things to consider such as the tarp material and how to follow the right safety precautions.
The last thing you need is the tarp flying off your load and causing an accident or not protecting your cargo and ripping while you are driving.
Here is a list of tarps that are available to protect your cargo:
Lumber Tarp
If your load is lumber wallboard, trim molding, or anything lumber related then this is the tarp you will want to choose. It will protect the lumber cargo from rain and dust as it is being driven around.
If you will be transporting the same type of lumber frequently on a flatbed then you will want to choose a lumber tarp that has a boxed end instead of one that has a flat at the front end. The boxed end option has sewn flap sides at the front.
The flat at the front end option protects the material from any dirt and dust. It also helps to keep the tarp from parachuting when the wind gets underneath it.
Steel Truck Tarp
These tarps are used for loads that are carrying steel freight like steel coils, sheet steel, or rebar that need extra protection. Steel tarps are typically large enough to cover larger loads. All of the cargo will be protected from any rain and dirt.
Smoke Tarp
This is a smaller tarp compared to other tarps because it is used to protect your load from the front side. It protects your load from the exhaust that your truck produces. It is a popular choice for smaller loads that are carrying steel or PVC.
Glass-Clear Tarp
These are a great tarp option for any trailers that carry materials that need protection from any slime, rain, dirt, or dust. The tarp itself is made from fishnet that is knitted together or from thick weaved material.
Landscape Trailers
These are open-air trailers that specifically carry only landscaping materials. They normally have cabinets and tool racks built into the frame and tailgates that can double as ramps to help you load equipment and off-load equipment easily.
If you are looking to expand your landscaping business then this type of trailer might fit your needs best.
Open-Air Trailer Types
These trailers offer little protection from the natural elements and the weather and therefore are more affordable than an enclosed trailer. They typically have a plank floor on top of wheels and have metal rails on three of its sides.
Refrigerated Trailers
If you have to transport anything that has to be kept in cool temperatures such as food such as Land O lakes butter, ice cream, or medicines then consider a refrigerated trailer. They are similar to an enclosed trailer but have insulation and a cooling system to maintain a cool temperature inside of the trailer.
Feeling Like a Utility Trailer Pro?
Now that you have learned about the different trailer types are you feeling like an expert?
You want to make sure that you do your homework of the laws in your state to ensure you have the proper registration that they require. You also want to be sure that you have the right type of vehicle to tow your trailer to avoid any accidents or situations that you will regret.
Did you find this post helpful? Check back often to stay in the know of all things outdoors!
