How to Choose the Right Cargo Trailer

Sometimes you need to haul payloads that are too large or too heavy for your car or truck to handle. That’s when you’re going to want to get a cargo trailer to safely take your items from point A to point B. There are various styles of cargo trailers that have been designed to cater to different types of needs. So, if you’re going to make the right choice, you need to do your research beforehand.

Victory Custom Trailers is your leading cargo trailer dealer in Metamora, MI and we want to help you get the right vehicle for your requirements. Read through our buying guide below and when you want to check out cargo trailers for sale near Detroit or Flint, get in touch with our sales team for more information!

Know Your Cargo

The first consideration should be to know what you’re going to be hauling. Some items don't need more than a simple platform to be tied to, whereas other cargo might be better kept in an enclosed trailer that’s protective and secure. The type of cargo you’re carrying will affect the size of the trailer you want, too. A small open trailer can be good for transporting vehicles like quads and very heavy cargo that’s hard to steal and doesn’t need protection from the elements. Larger trailers suit cars and boats, with ways to secure them so they don’t shift around. 

There are some enclosed trailers that come with stalls for animals and space for tack and feed, or they can be outfitted with temperature controls for sensitive cargo that needs to be kept cool or warm compared to the outside temperature. You can get dump trailers specifically for large payloads of loose material like dirt, gravel or landscaping compost, and there are equipment trailers with shelving and ways to secure farm tools. You should determine how you’ll be using your trailer and look for one that provides you with the space and security your cargo needs.

Know the Distances

Another important factor to take in is figuring out how far you’ll be taking your cargo trailer. To transport gear around town, you don’t need to invest in anything very heavy-duty or any additional options. However, if you’re taking cargo across the country, you should get a trailer capable of handling the long haul, so you may want to get a stronger and hardier option. When going long distances and stopping frequently in new places, you will also want to ensure the safety and security of your cargo. This could mean considering upgrades such as lights, stabilizers, spare tires and stronger door latches.

Know Your Budget

You’ll also have to look at your budget to determine how much you want to spend on a trailer. You should never buy more space than you need, which is why determining the appropriate size is so important. Another way to save money is to look at smaller and shorter trailers that will increase your fuel economy, since a large trailer that isn’t aerodynamic and has a lot of drag will greatly reduce your gas mileage, meaning you spend more at the pump. 

Buying a used trailer can save you hundreds of dollars while still ensuring you get a useful trailer in good condition that will serve you for years to come. You should also consider whether you’ll need to pay for storage for your trailer or if you have a place to keep it already, as a rented storage place will increase your costs. Don’t pay for accessories or options you don’t need, but don’t skimp on quality just to save money, since a trailer breakdown could be costly later on.

We hope this information helps you select the right model for your needs! For more information or if you’re looking for cargo trailers for sale in Metamora, MI, get in touch with the sales team here at Victory Custom Trailers! We’re proud to be the leading cargo trailer dealer for Detroit and Flint!