The Definitive Guide to Understanding the Different Trailer Sizes

The Definitive Guide to Understanding the Different Trailer Sizes

When it comes to purchasing your trailer, you need to pick the right size for what you are towing. Here’s an awesome guide to the different trailer sizes

Is a trailer purchase in your near future? If so, you’ll need to determine the right trailer size for your needs.

Trailers come in a wide variety of styles and sizes, including enclosed cargo trailers, open utility trailers, flatbeds, livestock haulers, vending trailers, and more.

To help you determine the right option for your needs, we’ve put together this helpful guide to trailer sizes.

But first, a quick disclaimer — make sure the trailer size you choose is within the law. Each state has different (but similar) regulations for allowable max length. Check yours here.

Consider Your Vehicle

Chances are, you already own the truck or SUV that you’ll use to pull your trailer. That means it’s very important to pick a trailer size that is compatible with your truck.

Both vehicles and trailers have what’s known as a gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR. There is a lot to fully understanding GVWR, but in simplest terms, it’s the maximum permissible weight when fully loaded (so that includes fuel, passengers, and cargo).

If you don’t know it, your owner’s manual will indicate your GVWR.

In addition to being hard on the mechanical components, it’s also not safe to exceed your truck or trailer’s GVWR. When you purchase your trailer, the salesperson will ask about the vehicle you intend to use to pull the trailer.

They will help you determine the maximum trailer size you can safely tow.

Consider What You’re Hauling

This might seem obvious, but the right sized trailer for you will depend on your intended uses. If you are hauling livestock or autos, you’ll obviously need a larger trailer than if you’re hauling a riding mower or an ATV.

The most common types of trailers are cargo (closed) versus utility (open). Cargo trailers are often used for transporting vehicles or equipment/materials that cannot be exposed to the elements.

Utility trailers are commonly used for landscaping or construction tools or materials.

Consider Storage

One factor some people overlook when trailer shopping is the storage of the trailer when not in use. No matter how often you use your trailer, you’ll still have times when it’s stored.

Consider where and how you’ll store the trailer when it’s not in use.

Pick the Right Trailer Sizes for You

Once you’ve determined your GVWR and know what you intend to haul, you can pick the right size.

If you intend to haul autos, consider enclosed trailers 8.5′ wide and up to 53′ long. Contractors might look at 6′ wide and 12′ to 16′ long cargo trailers. If an open utility trailer better suits your needs, consider common sizes including 6′ by 12′ or 7′ by 16′.

Contact Our Sales Professionals For Help

The great variety of available trailer sizes means there are a lot of factors that go into picking the one that is right for you. Our professional team will discuss your wishes and needs and help narrow down the right choice for you.

For help finding the right trailer in Virginia, Georgia, and Indiana, contact us today!

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