5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Dump Trailer
Before investing in a dump trailer, there are a few things to keep in mind before taking a chance on a purchase. Knowing exactly what you will be using the dump trailer for can help you narrow down your decision.
Before investing in a dump trailer, there are a few things to keep in mind before taking a chance on a purchase. Knowing exactly what you will be using the dump trailer for can help you narrow down your decision. Whether you're looking for a used trailer, buying an "off the shelf" trailer, or looking to customize a dump trailer, there are many options. At how to choose a mountain bike, we don't want you to leave with a dump trailer that won't do the job. Before spending any extra money or time, we've listed five things you should consider before buying a dump trailer.
White 4 Axle Dump Trailer
Size
Which size dump trailer is best for you? The size you decide on will most likely depend on the type of work you plan to use it for. Dump trailers can range in length from 8 feet to 30 feet. Typically, dump trailers are most commonly sized to span up to 14 feet because of their ability to do heavy hauling while still being able to move easily. Also, consider the type of road you'll be traveling on; if the terrain is rough, you may need a smaller trailer, but if your loads tend to be on the higher end, you'll need a dump trailer that can handle its weight.
Weight and capacity
To get the most out of your dump trailer, you should first know how much capacity your trailer has, which can be found in the owner's manual and tells you how much weight you can pull. Please note that the capacity also includes the weight of the trailer itself. The average empty weight of a standard dump trailer is about 4,500 pounds, and the average load capacity is closer to 12,400 pounds. If you plan to haul gravel, mulch or other materials, you need a trailer that can carry the load capacity as well as a vehicle that can handle both the trailer and the load. Ask a professional which trailers are best suited to haul the weight of the load. The lighter the trailer, the greater the weight of the load it can carry.
Materials and finishes
When deciding on a dump trailer, you can choose from aluminum, steel or galvanized steel. Aluminum tends to be the preferred choice, although it is a bit more expensive. Aluminum is a lighter material that is less likely to rust or corrode. You can go beyond the regular paint job by galvanizing the trailer - the process of submerging the trailer in zinc metal, which is basically a rust-proof chemical bath. Galvanizing will completely cover the trailer to provide a barrier from the inside of the pipe rack to the corners and crevices. Galvanizing is not an inexpensive process, but it ensures the longevity and resale value of the trailer because it prevents moisture and corrosive chlorides and sulfides from attacking the steel.
Design
Consider other features of your ultimate dump trailer, such as the axles needed to move the load, the height of the sidewalls or ramps, and the wheels. Smaller dump trailers may be suitable for a single axle, but dual axles can help carry large loads. The height of the sidewalls depends on the materials you plan to transport. Taller sidewalls are best for gravel, topsoil and other loose materials. Shorter walls tend to be more flexible, but are not as efficient at accommodating such loose materials.
Lifting Mechanism
What type of lifting mechanism will you need? Several choices include a telescope-style hydraulic lift, a dual-piston style, and a scissor-lift. telescopic hydraulic lift typically mounts on the center-front of the box and will lift the box to its dumping angle on just one cylinder. The scissor-lift is one of the most popular mechanisms with manufacturers, and it costs less. cylinder works like a scissor for maximum leverage while dumping and spreads out the footprint, which is useful for uneven loads.
Investing in the right dump trailer can help your business go a long way. Before deciding which dump trailer to use, consider our five suggested considerations before you buy. From size and capacity to weight and design, you can choose from a used dump trailer or a new, custom-built dump trailer. From boat trailers to car trailers, dump trailers and more, as a trailer dealer, we're sure to have the trailer you need. Contact us today. We'd love to help you with your trailer journey!
