Weighing the Different Types of Equipment Trailers
May 29, 2014Last Updated on January 25, 2024 by Daniel Houck
Last Updated on January 25, 2024 by allprotrailersuperstore
If you are looking for an equipment trailer to haul your tools, the options on the market can be quite overwhelming to navigate through. With tons of different models, manufacturers, and accessories available, buyers have to know how each of them would affect the success of their specific haul. Trailers come in several different widths, lengths and capacities, and knowledge of exactly what equipment you will be hauling and the weight of these items is the only way to make an educated decision. Here are some important distinctions between different essential pieces of your hauling set up that will help you purchase the right equipment trailer for you.
Flatbed vs. Enclosed Trailers
There are pros and cons to both flatbed and enclosed trailers. Flatbed Trailers are ideal for many hauls ranging from moving small landscaping equipment to transporting dozers and other heavy machinery. Items hauled on a flatbed, however, are typically exposed to the elements during travel. While enclosed trailers have the obvious advantage of keeping your items in a sheltered environment, they are often heavier then flatbed models. Flatbed trailers also tend to create less aerodynamic drag than enclosed trailers.
Deckover vs. Fender Style Trailer Decks
Knowing the width of your equipment is pivotal because equipment trailers are manufactured with either one of two deck styles: a deckover trailer deck or a fender style one. A deckover trailer has the bed of the trailer built above its wheels, while a fender style actually has the bed in between the wheels. Therefore, the deck can be much wider on a deckover, while a fender style deck is much narrower, since it has to fit in a predetermined spot between the wheels. The fender style trailer deck does have its benefits, however, as it makes loading and unloading much easier, due to the fact that it is lower to the ground than normal deckover models. Additionally, the low deck height of fender style trailers allow for a more stable load.
Deckover Trailer
Single vs. Tandem Axle
This is where having the knowledge of the weight of your equipment is key. Single axle trailers have just one load bearing axel and typically come without brakes. Most state laws require you to have a braking system if you plan on hauling more than 3000 lbs., thus ruling out the majority of single axle models. Any hauls over 3000 lbs. normally should be hauled on a dual axle trailer, as they use two load bearing axles and usually feature either leaf springs or slipper spring suspensions for additional support. Additionally, dual axle trailers have a better reputation on road surfaces that present problems to single axle models.
Additional Considerations When Choosing an Equipment Trailer
Knowing the specs of your haul is the key to picking out the right model of the many different equipment trailers available today. Your state’s weight limit for brakes and the width of your items can be vital information to the success of your transport.
