Used Trailer Buying Guide: What to Look For and When to Walk Away
Investing in a good used trailer can be beneficial, offering cost savings without compromising on functionality. However, as you shop for a used trailer, you’ll want to be careful and thorough. A trailer may have too much wear and tear to be useful, or the seller might not be following the proper procedures.
In this trailer buyer’s guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations when buying a used trailer. Here’s what to look for and how to make sure you get a high-quality product.
Why purchase a used trailer?
Selecting a pre-owned trailer instead of one that’s brand-new can help cut down the cost. Since used trailers already have some wear and tear, they come at a more affordable price.
You might also want a used trailer if you aren’t planning to use it on a regular basis. Maybe you only need a trailer for a few short jobs here and there, not heavy-duty, everyday work. In this case, investing in a used trailer is a great way to get a product that’s still highly functional but doesn’t need all the latest bells and whistles.
What to look for in a used trailer
Before purchasing a used trailer, we recommend thinking through the following considerations:
- Your needs
- Your towing vehicle
- Trailer type
- Trailer size
- Tow hitch type
Let’s take a deeper look at each of these factors.
What do you need a trailer for?
Will you be hauling equipment, livestock, vehicles, or other cargo? Different types of trailers accommodate different needs.
For example, if you’ll be transporting motorcycles, an enclosed trailer or a small open utility trailer with tie-down points and ramp access work best. But for transporting livestock, a dedicated horse trailer offers features like dividers, ventilation, and secure tie-down points to ensure the safety and comfort of your animals during transit. If you need a versatile option for general hauling tasks, a utility trailer might be most suitable.
What will you be towing your trailer with?
Your towing vehicle also plays a big role in determining which trailer is best. Consider your vehicle’s towing capacity, hitch type, and compatibility with the trailer you’re considering.
- First, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult with a mechanic to ensure it can handle the trailer’s weight and dimensions.
- Then, match the trailer’s hitch type to your vehicle’s hitch receiver to ensure a strong connection.
- If necessary, install additional towing accessories, such as weight distribution hitches or sway control systems, to enhance stability and safety while towing.
What type of trailer do you need?
Once you know what you need to use the trailer for, you can decide on the best type of trailer for you. Factors such as cargo protection, accessibility, and versatility also come into play. Here are a few trailer options that may interest you:
- Enclosed trailers: Enclosed trailers provide security and weather protection for valuable cargo. They’re suitable for long-distance transport or storage. Consider five of the best enclosed trailer brands.
- Utility trailers: Versatile, customizable utility trailers offer open bed space for hauling bulkier items and equipment, with options for added features like ramps or side rails.
- Horse trailers: Horse trailers prioritize the safety and comfort of horses during transport through features like padded walls and dividers.
- Dump trailers: Dump trailers are designed to contain and efficiently unload loose materials such as gravel or debris. They have high sides and hydraulic lifting mechanisms that create accessibility and versatility for various hauling tasks. Learn how to find the best dump trailer.
Consider your specific hauling needs and preferences to determine the best trailer type for you.
What size trailer do you need?
Trailers come in a variety of different sizes. Before you start shopping, consider the dimensions of the items you’ll be hauling and any potential future needs for additional space. Measure your largest cargo items’ length, width, and height to determine the minimum size requirements.
You’ll also want to factor in weight distribution and payload capacity to prevent overloading the trailer. Keep in mind that while larger trailers offer more versatility, they can also be more challenging to maneuver and tow.
What tow hitch type do you need?
Choose a hitch type that matches your vehicle’s towing capacity and the trailer’s tongue weight. Common hitch types include receiver hitches, gooseneck hitches, and fifth-wheel hitches. Each one is designed for a specific towing application.
Dump trailers often use a pintle hitch or gooseneck hitch. For a utility trailer, you’ll likely find a standard ball hitch or receiver hitch, while enclosed trailers commonly utilize a ball hitch or receiver hitch.
As you consider the best type of trailer hitch, consider factors such as ease of installation, towing capacity, and compatibility with your vehicle and trailer.
How to buy a used trailer
Once you’ve figured out the trailer type and size you’re looking for, it’s time to start shopping. When shopping for a used trailer, thoroughly inspect it and take it for a test drive. During your inspection, check the following components of the trailer for signs of wear, damage, or potential issues.
- Tires: Examine the tires for tread wear, sidewall damage, and proper inflation.
- Lights: Check all lights (brake lights, turn signals, taillights) to ensure they’re functional.
- Flooring: Inspect the trailer’s flooring for signs of rot, damage, or weakness.
- Hitch: Make sure the hitch has a secure attachment and proper operation.
- Structural components: Inspect the suspension, frame, and any other structural components for rust, cracks, or other signs of deterioration.
Test drive the trailer if you can, and check for any strange noises or handling issues.
You may also like: Homesteader Trailer Buyer's Guide
Buying a used trailer private vs. a dealer
You can buy a used trailer from either a private seller or a dealer. Both of these options have pros and cons.
Working with a private seller might offer cost savings and flexibility in negotiations. However, it can also come with risks, such as limited warranty coverage and uncertainty about the trailer’s condition and title.
Buying from a dealer like Ken Feagin Truck & Trailer assures quality, reliability, and post-sales support. Dealerships often offer certified pre-owned options, warranties, and financing options, making them a preferred choice for many buyers seeking convenience and peace of mind.
Buying a trailer out of state
If you’re unable to find a good trailer in-state, you may need to look farther afield. Buying out of state can open up a wider selection of options (and potentially offer lower prices). However, you’ll need to research and understand the logistics, regulations, and potential challenges involved.
Check the trailer’s title and registration requirements in both the seller’s state and your own state to ensure compliance. There might also be transportation costs, taxes, or additional fees associated with purchasing and registering a trailer out of state. Again, make sure to conduct a thorough inspection before finalizing the purchase.
Find a quality pre-owned trailer at Ken Feagin Truck & Trailer
Buying a used trailer is a great way to get a high-quality item at a lower cost than purchasing a new one. Here at Ken Feagin Truck & Trailer, we stock a wide variety of used trailers at any given time from brands like Homesteader, Sundowner, and more.
If you’re shopping for a used trailer in Asheville or Greenville, SC, we’re right down the road in Campobello, SC. Come visit us, or give us a call–we’re always happy to help.
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