No matter how big the boot in your car, the tub or tray in your ute, or the length of the roof rack on either, there’ll be a time when space is just not enough. A simple solution is to get a trailer. One that meets all your transporting needs. But not sure which one to get? Read on, and make your choice.
Aussies are always on the move. Getting that new sofa home, moving building materials when renovating, or just having the added realty for work. Trailers are versatile additions to your garage, and there’ll be more than one occasion you wish you had one.
There are dozens of trailer builders across the country. They’re familiar with what buyers need to get their goods to the desired location. And they’ve tailored their product lineup to suit a range of different customers. You can find small, universal trailers, handy in countless situations, or job-specific trailers, like tippers and plant trailers. They come in different sizes, a range of materials, and features to suit. Knowing what you carry is a starting point in getting the right trailer. The size and amount of the goods will determine which to go for. As well as how often you’ll need the trailer in your daily tasks.
Of course, if you don’t find a trailer that ticks all the boxes, there’s always the option to build one from scratch. A custom trailer Australia will get you on the move in no time. And many of the same trailer builders I mentioned above will be more than happy to help out.
Things to Go by
It’s not just the average bloke that needs a trailer. Custom trailers are built for tradesmen, businesses, organisations, even government agencies. When building the trailer of your dreams, there are a few questions you need answers to:
What Size of Trailer do I Need?
Helping builders get what you want starts with size. The length, height and width of the trailer are things that you’ll discuss with builders first. They’ll ask you about the type of goods you’ll be transporting and recommend a trailer in the right dimensions.
Single or Tandem Axle?
The weight of your cargo will determine whether the trailer will have one or two axles. Single axle trailers are good for occasional use, say when moving, or getting furniture to your beach house. They’ll happily hold up to 750 kilos, so most household items won’t be an issue. But for work use, you’ll want something sturdier. Tandem axle trailers can carry up to 4000 kilos, including the weight of the trailer. This is what builders call Gross Vehicle Mass, or GVM. If you’re hauling machinery, equipment or buildings for the better part of the day, and each day, then definitely get a tandem axle trailer. They’re built for the weight, and have a few important additions, like independent braking and better suspension to make towing that much easier and safer.
Open or Enclosed?
Open trailers have a flatbed, with or without high sides. Enclosed trailers are, well, just that. They’ll shield your goods from bad weather as well as crooks, and let you keep all your stuff locked up and ready. Open trailers will be more useful when working with loads in different sizes and shapes, or where the roof of an enclosed trailer is a deal-breaker, preventing you to get extra tall gear inside. Again, the choice here boils down to what you carry.
Build and Materials
To haul your cargo safely, you’ll want a durable trailer that can handle different road conditions, and won’t lose its lustre in bad weather. Trailer chassis are often made of steel, while the floor beds and sides are aluminium to keep the weight down. Enclosed trailers will have rubber seals and recessed locks, so no water or rust seeps through. Quality workmanship, like tight welds, guarantee that the trailer lasts.
Tyres, wheels, braking and suspension can be specified for your choice of road surface. If you need something that you’ll use off-road, then the build is spruced up to better handle the harsher conditions.
Accessories, Features, Details
The beauty of a custom trailer Australia is that you can add anything you want. Need a non-slip surface? Get a checker plate floor. Hauling farm goods or livestock? Choose from a range of cages, high sides, rear ramps and covers. Going off-road? Opt for an off-roading conversion with bigger wheels, mud tyres, longer drawbars and additions like jerry can holders or spare wheels. There are dozens of additions that make your trailer one of a kind. You can even choose the colour.
How about Warranties?
Aussie builders provide warranties on the trailers they sell. This will be either 2 or 3 years, depending on the type of trailer. Some businesses even have free roadside assistance covered in the price. They’ll repair the damage, or provide another trailer to get the job done on time.
Anything Else I Should Consider?
The type of trailer you get should be nicely matched to the towing vehicle. Smaller and single axle trailers won’t be an issue for most cars, but bigger, tandem axle trailers filled to the brim require a bigger ute or truck. Check the rated towing capacity of your vehicle.
