Choosing a Trailer

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TRAILER
	- Helpful Tips Determine Your Needs Consider the types of equipment to be hauled. Be sure to plan for growing needs, as well as, for any alternative or extra equipment to be carried.
	- Calculate Your Payload Calculate the weight of your expected cargo to determine the payload capacity you expect to haul. Your payload should be evenly distributed over the surface of the trailer.
	- Determine Your GVWR Needs Once you determine the payload capacity you expect to haul, add the weight of the trailer to the expected payload capacity to determine the combined weight. Select a trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) higher than the combined weight of the trailer and its load. GVWR - Empty Weight = Maximum Payload Capacity
	- Evaluate the Tow Vehicle What is the maximum towing weight of the vehicle? Information is located in the vehicle owner's manual, or contact us.
	- Trailer Construction For the best quality trailer, most components should be constructed with heavy gauge steel.
	- Tow Vehicle To Trailer Coupler Trailers come with a variety of different hitches. A ball hitch attached to the frame of the trailer is the most common and provides excellent stability. Remember, the heavier the load the stronger the hitch required.
	- Loading and Unloading Trailers There are many options for loading and unloading. Some small trailers have tilt beds or ramp gates that can be lowered by hand. Other trailers may have side ramp gates or removable sides that act as ramps. Larger trailers may have split ramps for easier lifting.
	- Check for Proper Licensing and Registration It is the customer's responsibility to make sure the trailer complies with federal, state and local regulations, as well as, to properly license the trailer.
	- Licensing the Trailer When a trailer is sold, the purchaser will receive a Manufacturer Certificate of Origin (MCO) which is to be taken to the local license bureau with the Bill of Sale, and in most states, a title will be issued.
	- Knowing About Tires Is Important Tires are significant in regards to weight, handling and the smoothness of the ride. Generally tires come in 6, 8, 10-ply or more. Each trailer tire handles a specific weight limit. Be sure to check that the tires on the trailer are adequate for the load and are properly inflated. Regularly check all tires for proper wear and correct air pressure.
	Note Differences between Open and Enclosed Trailers Open Trailers are great for a variety of uses. Size availability includes trailers ranging from about 4 x 6 feet to 8.5 x 30 feet and even longer. Some trailers feature deckovers, mesh sides or tall steel sides that surround the edge. These types of rails are important for keeping the equipment contained while in transit.
	Enclosed Trailers have several advantages, including the ability to lock up your equipment. This feature is particularly important if a storage place is not available. Enclosed trailers may be used as an extra storage facility during off-season as well.
	Although it is still important to properly secure the load, the enclosed trailer has the advantage of containing your equipment if the load should shift. This benefit can help you prepare for a safer towing experience.
	- 5 Steps To Guide You In The Ordering Process Determine the size and weight of what is to be carried in or on the new trailer. Determine the maximum weight of the tow vehicle and how much weight can be towed. Determine the size of the trailer coupler on the new trailer. The trailer ball on the tow vehicle must be the exact size. Find out if the new trailer needs extra tie-downs. Also consider a spare tire carrier and a spare tire. Decide if you need an enclosed trailer or an open trailer. Contact us to discuss options on various models that you are interested in. - In Great Falls, MT (406) 761-7441 - In Moses Lake, WA: (509) 765-9231 Or send us an email.