With the variety of different trailers available on the market, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one you should buy. While some trailers are more versatile, like enclosed trailers, others, like tanker trailers, have a more specific use. To help you figure out what you need, we gathered some of the basics on each most common trailer type. From horse trailers to flatbeds, here is your guide to choosing the right trailer for the job.
Trailer Type and Common Use Breakdown
Dump Trailers
Dump trailers are well-known for their versatility. This trailer type is built to be put to work on your toughest jobs and carry as much weight as you need. You can use dump trailers to haul any variety of goods. From dirt to lawn equipment, you can toss nearly anything into a dump trailer. Of course, they’re named after their most well-known feature – the hydraulic cylinder that dumps for you. The dumping feature is obviously your biggest decision-maker. If you’ve got to carry heavy loads from Point A to Point B on the job, a dump trailer might be the choice for you.
Open Utility Trailers
Also known as flatbed trailers, these are good for carrying heavy items, like an ATV or a lawnmower. Utility trailers are not optimal for towing loose items like dirt or smaller supplies. They’re well-suited for moving large single objects that can be easily strapped into place. Often utility trailers are chosen to tow heavy equipment. We offer a variety of flatbed trailers, from traditional car trailers to tilt decks and goosenecks, our knowledgeable staff would be happy to help you find the exact trailer best suited for your work.
Enclosed Trailers
If you have similar needs to those who choose flatbed trailers but wish to keep your supplies safe from the snow, rain, and sunshine, an enclosed trailer might be the right choice. They’re often referred to as either an enclosed or a cargo trailer. Enclosed trailers are also preferable when hauling smaller supplies, like lawn equipment. Unlike flatbed trailers, you can safely and securely store more small items in enclosed cargo trailers. These trailers come in many different sizes, depending on what your vehicle can tow and how much you need to store. The variety of choices and versatility of use in enclosed cargo trailers often make them the best trailer type choice if you’re not sure exactly where your trailer needs will take you.
Livestock or Horse Trailers
Obviously built to transport horses specifically, a horse trailer is the best choice if you only plan to use it for horses. They often come with specific amenities, like saddle racks and dressing rooms. If you plan to transport any livestock in addition to horses, a livestock trailer is probably the way to go. Better suited for cattle or other livestock, these trailers are often more open and have smaller pens. Though able to carry them, livestock trailers are not very well-suited for horses.
Tanker Trailer
Similar to horse and livestock trailers, you probably already know whether or not you need a tanker trailer. Tanker trailers are mainly used to carry products that, frankly, couldn’t be carried by any other trailer. This trailer type is often suited for liquids like gasoline, but some can be used to carry dry goods like grain or sand, or even to transport gases. While most consumer-grade tanker trailers are mainly used to transport fuel, there are plenty of tanker trailer options out there for any variety of jobs.
Overall, choosing the right trailer for the job is often straightforward, but if you’re looking for a multipurpose unit, things can become a little more complicated. If you need help deciding which trailer type will work best for you, call us at (217) 262-4005 or fill out a contact form. You can also browse our trailers for sale in Arthur, Illinois, if you’ve already decided on a trailer type. Our goal is to make sure you leave with a quality, dependable trailer that is perfect for whatever you need.
