Cargo Trailer 101

There are three general categories of “Good” trailer design:  Strength, Stability, and Versatility.  The parts of this article discuss each of these topics on the following pages as they relate to trailers in general, and to utility trailers in specific. Generally, a utility trailer is simple — perhaps a flatbed, or flatbed with sides — that rides behind a vehicle and carries all sorts of “stuff”.  Sometimes they will have options like tall sides, a tailgate, built-in ramps, or a top — thus adding Versatility.  That’s important, but first, there are a lot of basics that make the trailer pull well and behave well on the road. The best trailers carry the required “stuff”, and they have good towing manners, and last for years.  That’s what these pages are about. It is key to note that not all items discussed on these pages will, or even can, be present in every trailer.  Also, some items discussed are not applicable to every application.  This art...

What is the best cargo trailer on the market?  That’s hard to answer because there are so many different brands and types of trailers on the market. Diamond, Haulmark, Lark, and Pace are good trailers but it's just people’s opinions. The reality is that most trailers are made with the same materials; their parts and materials are interchangeable.  Most dirt cheap trailers are made with a hybrid of Chinese steel and low-grade aluminum. The trailer market has gotten so competitive that almost of dealers will sell a stock trailer with a profit margin of $150; knowing that trailer will fail within 5 years but after the 3-year warranty. That leaves the customer with two options; buy new one or repair the old one.  This gives the dealer a 50% chance that the customer will return to buy a new one or painfully pay for the trailer to be service for half of the price of a  new one. Win-Win for the dealer! Sucks for the customer.  Another example is that the d...

The online community is a great tool to find useful information, especially when it comes to gaining knowledge on a topic that is new to you. With so much information on the rules and best practices of towing, it’s important to learn the truth of towing from a reputable source. 1) I can increase my payload capacity by adding aftermarket suspension products. False. No suspension upgrade designed for towing or hauling can increase your truck’s maximum vehicle manufacturer-assigned capacity ratings, however, there is a suspension solution that can help handle heavy payload more effectively. By pre-activating, the stabilizing effects of the truck’s factory leaf springs can improve the handling of your vehicle while towing. Enjoy a safer towing experience by reducing poor handling, eliminating side-to-side sway and leveling your truck while loaded. 2) There is no difference between GAWR and GVWR. False. In order to tow safely, it is important to learn the meaning of ...