What to Consider When You Buy a Used Trailer
Used trailers are a popular choice for those who need a trailer but don’t want to spend as much cash. Aside from the price, you often get a wider variety of options when you buy a used trailer. Most dealers will carry brands and models used that they don’t carry new, so you’ve got a chance to find a unique trailer that wouldn’t otherwise be an option. At M&G, we’ve even had homemade trailers pass through our used inventory! Used trailers are often an affordable option, but you should be careful to choose one that you expect will last. That’s why we’ve covered all of the most important considerations when you buy a used trailer.
Buyer’s Guide to Used Trailers
New or new to you, you should have a solid idea of what you need your trailer to do before picking one out. In addition, when buying used, the condition is key to getting both value and reliability. It’s good practice to keep all of these factors in mind when you head out to buy a used trailer.
Trailer Age
The number one factor with any used trailer is age. Even if the trailer is well kept, time, wear and tear will take its toll, especially if it’s been stored uncovered outside. However, most well-built trailers are known to have a life expectancy of 15 years or longer. Keep that in mind when making your final choice on your trailer.
Frame and Structure
Steel is cheaper and stronger than aluminum, however, it’s also heavier and it rusts. Extensive wear could be found on steel trailers along coastal cities or places where roads are salted during the winter. Aluminum may be a better option for that reason — if your climate encounters a lot of salt and water. However, if properly cared for and coated, steel can endure for a long time as well.
Single vs. Tandem Axle
Single axle trailers are good for some furniture or yard equipment. However, if you think you’ll be doing some heavier lifting with large equipment or dense building materials, go with the tandem axle trailer. Tandem axle trailers significantly increase your payload capacity.
GVWR
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum weight that your trailer can hold. This also includes the weight of the trailer itself. Tandem axle trailers often have a higher GVWR.
Used Trailer Buyer’s Checklist
This checklist is comprised with used trailers in mind; however, it could apply to buying new trailers as well. Trailers are a big investment, so it’s wise to take whatever precautions you can to get the best value from your purchase.
Tires
Confirm that the trailer tires are the right size and check the tire condition. Additionally, you should check hubs, brakes, tread wear and wheel bearings. After the tire check, look over the axles to ensure they are in good condition. Tires can be expensive so a potential replacement should be factored into your cost.
Floor & Frame
Inspect everything you can see on the unit! Inspect the floor, and potentially the roof. You should keep an eye out for loose or missing screws/rivets/bolts, cracks, ramp quality and corrosion. Steel rusts, but aluminum can become corrosive over time as well. Inspect the hitches for wear and tear. Make sure that the key components have not been replaced with incompatible parts, like weaker hitches or axles.
Electrical
Finally, inspect the lights and wiring to verify that electrical is in working order. Hitch up the trailer to a vehicle and ensure the lights, brake lights, and turn signals are not missing and are in working order. If the trailer has any motorized parts, like a lift or jack, operate those components to ensure they are functioning as expected.
Your Used Trailer Purchase
After evaluating the used trailer of interest, make a checklist of any potential fixes needed. If you don’t know the cost for repairs, call around and get some quotes, then see if the dealer can either take care of it or adjust the price for work that needs to be done. You can also ask about warranties or quality guarantees the dealer provides for peace of mind. If cost is keeping you from your potential purchase, you can also ask about trailer financing.
Used Trailer Dealership vs. Direct Seller
There are many advantages when you buy a used trailer at a dealership, like a bill of sale and easy transfer of the existing title. To properly register your trailer and ensure that it’s not stolen or free of liens, you’ll need these items. And if you don’t like the model you came to see on the lot, trailer dealers usually carry a variety of other models to browse.
You don’t always have these options when you buy a used trailer from a direct seller. In addition, trailer dealers may provide warranties or incentivized trailer maintenance plans, along with discounts for onsite service. Many dealers will also take trailer trade-ins, where direct sellers are strictly looking to sell.
M&G Trailer Sales and Service is a trailer dealership you can trust. We carry dozens of quality used trailers from many brands, not just the brands we carry in new trailers. We pride ourselves in both our superior selection and excellence in customer service. We don’t just sell you a trailer. We are here to answer your questions and assist you from search to purchase to upkeep. Start your search by browsing our used trailers for sale today!
Check out our full trailer inventory online today! We have tons of trailers in any model you need. Shop dump, enclosed, snowmobile, utility, fuel tank trailers, truck beds and more at M&G Trailers! Contact us online or stop by our Minnesota trailer dealership when you’re ready to make a purchase.