Which Trailer is Ideal for What I’m Towing?

Robin Ottenfeld on October 25, 2023

Robin Ottenfeld

So, you need a trailer.

Perhaps it’s finally time to expand the family business. You held strong during the challenges of the pandemic and now you’re ready to spread your reach. Gone are the days when your livelihood could fit in the back of a pickup, whether that be anything from landscaping to hot shot trucking. Whatever your use case, one thing has become clear: It’s time for an upgrade.

No one knows what your business needs are better than you, and it’s our job at Mid State Trailers to meet those needs with the perfect trailer. If you’re anything like us, then you know how essential logistical efficiency is to your profit margin. With this buying guide, we hope to streamline your trailer acquisition process with top-of-the-line solutions that will get your equipment and materials where they need to go with minimal hassle.When considering what you need out of your trailer, there are four main types to take into account:

Gooseneck Trailers
Flatbed “Deckover” Trailers
Equipment Hauling Trailers
Utility Trailers

In this guide, you’ll get to know the basic ins and outs of each type, as well as their optimal use cases so that you can be equipped with the tools that suit you best.

Gooseneck Trailers: Capacity and Stability

Gooseneck trailers are your go-to solution if your business involves the transportation of large loads or heavy equipment and machinery. Designed with a unique attachment point in the bed of your truck, on top of the towing vehicle’s rear axle, these trailers provide excellent weight distribution, stability, and maneuverability. Because of these design efficiencies, a 40 ft gooseneck trailer is capable of carrying 16,000 pounds or more. As opposed to a normal trailer hitch that connects to your vehicle’s bumper, the gooseneck hitch sits onboard the truck or tractor and is designed for heavy-duty vehicles. While this may limit its compatibility, the increased weight capacity can be well worth it. More capacity means fewer trips and larger loads after all. Because of these factors, this design is particularly well-suited for towing large loads over long distances. Industries such as construction, agriculture, and hot shot trucking can be great fits for gooseneck trailers. Moving heavy construction machinery, transporting farm equipment, or delivering time-sensitive goods is not just easier, it’s safer too. The last thing your business needs is staggering repair bills for damaged equipment critical to your operation. Thankfully, their sturdy build and optimal weight distribution ensure that your cargo stays secure, regardless of the challenging terrain you encounter.

Flatbed “Deckover” Trailers: Versatility and Accessibility

Flatbed “deckover” trailers excel in versatility and loading accessibility. If your business involves transporting irregularly shaped or oversized equipment or raw material, these trailers are your ideal choice. Their flat deck design extends over the wheels, allowing for side and rear loading/unloading. The low deck height makes loading and unloading a breeze, ensuring efficient operations at job sites. Our flatbeds are designed with efficiency in mind, and cutting down on unloading time is just another way our flatbeds can help save you money.

Deckover trailers differ from Gooseneck trailers in a couple of important ways. First, deckovers feature bumper pull rather than gooseneck hitches, though you’ll occasionally see pintle hitches on deckovers when being pulled by dump trucks or other heavy-duty construction equipment. Second, the length of a deckover trailer is typically shorter than that of a gooseneck trailer. At Mid State Trailers our sweet spot for deckover trailer lengths is between 18 feet and 30 feet, though we can build them as short as 16 feet and as long as 35 feet.

Industries such as construction, industrial machinery transport, and modular building transportation find flatbed “deckover” trailers indispensable. These trailers are perfect for moving heavy machinery and large components, as well as transporting modular structures and equipment.

Equipment Trailers: Functionality and Practicality

Whether you’re transporting a skid steer, or a tractor from one field to another, equipment trailers, also known as equipment haulers, or hauling trailers, offer superior functionality and practicality. While their primary use is to transport machinery, equipment trailers will handle the majority of what your business can throw at them. Their open design and straightforward construction make them suitable for various industries, including landscaping, farming, automotive transport, and more. When your travel goals are more cross-county than cross-country, equipment trailers are the most economical option. While gooseneck and flatbed “deckover” trailers can handle some of a business’s most ambitious loads, that may be overkill if what you really need is a landscaping trailer.

Like deckover trailers, equipment trailers most often feature a ball hitch for attachment to your truck’s bumper, but again, you will see them with pintle hitches on occasion. In a single axle, 7k GVWR configuration, equipment trailers range from 14 feet to 20 feet. With dual axles and a 14k GVWR capacity, equipment trailers can be as long as 24 feet.

If you’re in the landscaping or farming sector, equipment trailers can transport lawnmowers, tractors, tools, and materials with ease. Automotive businesses can utilize these trailers for towing vehicles while moving and event services benefit from their versatility in carrying equipment, furniture, and supplies. Equipment trailers can even carry floats or event displays for county parades or state fairs. Equipment trailers cater to a diverse array of cargo, making them an excellent all-around choice.

Utility Trailers: Affordability and Convenience

When the loads are relatively small, and affordability and convenience are paramount, utility trailers step in to meet your needs. With their simple, open design, these trailers are ideal for businesses with light to medium-duty hauling needs. Industries such as construction, landscaping, retail, and even emergency response often purchase utility trailers. Utility trailers, by virtue of their smaller size and lower capacity, can service most of your business needs without breaking the bank. Additionally, utility trailers are equipped with an array of customization options, making them absolutely ideal for meeting your exact use case. At Mid State, our utility trailers feature ball hitches and can range from 10 feet to 14 feet in length and come in widths of six or seven feet. The load capacity of these single axle trailers is typically 3,500 lbs. In construction and landscaping, utility trailers can carry building materials, equipment, and tools to job sites efficiently. Retail businesses can utilize them for transporting goods and event materials, while emergency response efforts can rely on utility trailers for swiftly moving supplies and equipment to affected areas. Their adaptability and straightforwardness make utility trailers an indispensable asset.

Choosing the Perfect Trailer

Ultimately, the ideal trailer for your business depends on your specific requirements and the nature of your cargo and equipment. As such, you should consider the following factors in relation to the nature of your business:

Cargo Type: Identify the primary type of cargo you’ll be transporting, whether it’s heavy machinery, oversized equipment, landscaping tools, or other materials.
Weight and Size: Determine the weight and size of your cargo to ensure it aligns with the trailer’s load capacity and dimensions. Be sure to mind local, state, and federal regulations, as an oversized load can do far more damage to your business than a hefty fine, it can also put lives at risk.
Frequency of Use: Consider how often you’ll be using the trailer and whether it will be for occasional or regular transport.
Terrain and Distance: Evaluate the terrains you’ll be navigating and the distances you’ll be covering to assess the trailer’s durability and stability. In rougher terrain, a gooseneck trailer is certainly the correct pick.
Loading and Unloading: Determine if your cargo requires easy accessibility for loading and unloading, which could influence your choice between flatbed “deckover” and equipment trailers.
Special Features: Depending on your industry, you might need features like ramps, tie-down points, or storage compartments.

While to some the choice may seem small, picking the right trailer for your business is a decision that can make or break your operations’ efficiency and success. By understanding the unique benefits and use cases of each trailer type, you can confidently select the model that best suits your cargo, equipment, and industry needs. Whether you’re moving heavy construction machinery, transporting farm equipment, or transporting time-sensitive goods, our goal at Mid State Trailers is to match your needs with precision. An informed decision matched with one of our trailers is a recipe sure to reap success. Call one of our trailer experts today at 336-857-2888 and we’ll help you find the right trailer at the right price, right now!

What Does it Mean to De-rate a Trailer?

Robin Ottenfeld on October 4, 2023

Robin Ottenfeld

If you’re in the market for a trailer, you may have come across the term “de-rating” during your research. While you may be feeling the urge to pull out your trucking encyclopedia and flip to the glossary, there’s no need – the team at Mid State trailers has you covered. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what tailor de-rating means, explaining the process and its practical implications for hot shotters and anyone else looking to purchase a trailer.

Understanding Trailer De-Rating

Before going any further, let’s define some acronyms.

The first one is GVWR, which stands for Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. The GVWR is the maximum weight a trailer can safely carry, according to the manufacturer, including its own weight. This rating is crucial, as exceeding it can lead to dangerous situations on the road and potential legal issues.

Next is GCWR, which stands for Gross Combined Weight Rating. The GCWR is the maximum combined weight of your vehicle, trailer, and cargo. Essentially, it is a GVWR, but for your entire rig.

Lastly, there’s CDL, which stands for Commercial Driver’s License. This is required for operating a vehicle over a certain GVWR, although this number will vary by state and by the number of axles a vehicle has.

De-rating a trailer involves lowering its stated GVWR, which begs the question: Why would anyone possibly want a lower weight rating? The answer is one of practicality and has everything to do with the way that automotive shipping vehicles are regulated in the United States. In the most basic terms, de-rating will, in specific states, allow you to legally tow a trailer even though it has the potential to carry more without – and this is the important part – having to have a CDL.. The following blog’s purpose is to explain to you why that can be significant to your towing endeavors, especially if you’re in a specialized business like hot shotting and you don’t have or want a CDL and all the headaches and regulations that go along with a Commercial Driver’s License.

The Practical Implications for Hot Shotters

Hot shotting, for those not familiar with the term, is a specialized and time-sensitive freight hauling service. Hot shot drivers often use pickup trucks with trailers to transport smaller loads quickly and efficiently. Such services are known for their versatility and ability to transport goods that may not fill an entire semi-truck.

Still, why de-rate? Well, imagine you have a Ford F250 Super-Duty with full tanks, equipment in the bed, and a couple of big-bodied guys in the front seats. The truck alone could scoot upwards towards 10,000 pounds. Add a trailer with an 18,000lb GVWR and you can theoretically carry a load that would exceed the magic 26,000lb GCWR that triggers the Federal CDL requirement.. Now, imagine that you’re pulled over by a local peace officer for a routine check and she sees that you’ve got a trailer capable of 18,000lbs and a truck that can tow a gooseneck trailer up to 22,000lbs, and YOU don’t have a CDL license. Do you think she might want to send you over to the scales and take a closer look? Who wants that hassle!

This is where trailer de-rating comes into play. By de-rating a trailer, you effectively reduce its GVWR to fit your GCWR, allowing you to legally tow it without needing a CDL. This can be a game-changer for hot shotters who need to stay flexible and responsive to their clients’ needs.

The De-Rating Process

Now that you understand the why, let’s delve into the how of trailer de-rating. Legal de-rating is done during the fabrication process, and here’s a basic overview of how it works:

Modifications: Generally, trailer de-rating involves no change to the structure of the trailer besides the GVWR rating on a trailer’s VIN label. In other words, the only difference between a trailer that has been de-rated and a trailer that has not is how it is classified by regulatory bodies. As stated, this can be significant depending on the buyer’s particular towing requirements and CDL status.
Re-Certification: After fabrication, the trailer undergoes a re-certification process. This involves a thorough inspection and testing to ensure that the trailer meets safety and performance standards with its new, lower GVWR.
Documentation: Once the trailer has been successfully de-rated and re-certified, it comes with documentation that reflects its new GVWR. This documentation is essential for legal purposes and should be kept on hand when towing the trailer.

Considerations Before De-Rating

Before you rush to have your new trailer de-rated, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

Legal Requirements: De-rating a trailer doesn’t mean you can tow above the rated limit with a wink and a nod. Not only must you adhere to local, state, and federal regulations regarding trailer weight, size, and licensing requirements, but if you’re caught hauling over the trailer’s GVWR – well, we don’t need to tell you why that’s bad for business.
Payload Capacity: De-rating reduces the maximum weight your trailer can legally carry. Make sure the new GVWR aligns with your intended use and cargo requirements. It’s crucial not to overload your trailer, as it can lead to safety hazards and potential damage to your vehicle.
Resale Value: De-rating a trailer can affect its resale value. Some buyers may prefer trailers with higher GVWR for different applications. On the other hand, a de-rated trailer can actually bring a better re-sale price because other hotshotters are looking at the same considerations you did when purchasing the trailer.
Warranty Implications: Check with the manufacturer or dealer regarding any potential impacts on warranties. Modifying the trailer’s GVWR may void certain warranties, so it’s essential to be aware of this before proceeding.

When De-Rating Makes Sense

Now that you understand the process and considerations, let’s explore when de-rating a trailer might make sense for you:

Licensing Requirements: If you don’t want to obtain a CDL but need to tow a trailer with a higher GVWR than your current license allows, de-rating is a viable option.
Versatility: Hot shotters and individuals who require flexibility in their towing capabilities can benefit from de-rating. It allows you to adapt your trailer to various hauling needs without worrying about licensing constraints.
Cost Savings: De-rating might be a cost-effective solution compared to upgrading your vehicle or obtaining a commercial driver’s license, especially if your hauling needs are sporadic.
Compliance: Ensuring that your towing setup complies with legal requirements is essential. De-rating can help you stay on the right side of the law while still meeting your cargo requirements.

Conclusion

In the world of trailer towing, de-rating can offer a reasonable solution to hot shotters and individuals looking to maximize their towing capabilities without jumping through all the various regulatory hoops including (but not limited to) obtaining a CDL. It’s important to approach the process with a clear understanding of its implications and your specific needs.

Here at Mid State Trailers, it is our goal to meet your needs exactly where they are. No matter your towing requirements, our service providers will be happy to consult regarding your options, so that we can find the best choice for you.

Remember that safety should always be a top priority. Ensure that your towing setup, whether de-rated or not, complies with all applicable regulations and that you never exceed the manufacturer’s specified limits. The last thing you or your business needs is a hefty fine from the FMSCA, or worse, a potentially deadly accident. By understanding the ins and outs of trailer de-rating, you can make informed decisions that enhance your towing experience while staying within the bounds of the law.

Happy towing!

Financing Your Trailer

Robin Ottenfeld on September 20, 2023

Robin Ottenfeld

Are you itching to hit the open road or find your perfect escape in the great outdoors with a trusty trailer by your side? Whether you’re yearning for adventures out of the bed of a trailer, or trying to expand your business into new markets, it’s all too easy to find yourself instead bogged down by financial happenstance. If that sounds like you, then financing your trailer through a straightforward, simple interest loan might just be the solution you’ve been looking for. In this post, we’ll run you through the ins-and-outs of trailer financing through a standard loan to help you understand why it might be the key to realizing your hauling potential. We’ll address your burning questions, from how the loan financing process works to eligibility criteria, and even the potential challenges you might face, like high interest rates if you have a less-than-perfect credit history.

Why Finance Your Trailer?

First things first, why should you consider financing your trailer? Well, the answer is straightforward – it makes owning a trailer more accessible and affordable. Trailers come in a wide range of styles and sizes, and they serve various purposes, from expanding the capabilities of your business (anything from landscaping to hot shot trucking), to hauling your favorite toys (like ATVs or motorcycles).

Simple interest loan financing is a common practice on the consumer side of the automotive industry, as it allows you to spread the payments for a high-cost piece of property over a set period, making it easier on your monthly wallet. By financing, you can start enjoying the benefits of trailer ownership without depleting your savings or having to come up with a substantial lump sum. It’s a way to break down a significant expense into manageable monthly payments, which is often a prerequisite of the average budget. Better yet, if your trailer’s a business expense, it may pay for itself well before you’re done paying it off.

How Does Simple Interest Trailer Financing Work?

It is very similar to financing a car. Here’s a basic rundown of the process:

Selecting Your Dream Trailer:

Begin by choosing the trailer that suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Whether it’s for business or for pleasure, ensure you have a clear understanding of what you want. Check out our other blog posts if you need help deciding which trailer is right for you.

Budget Evaluation:

Once you’ve picked your ideal trailer, assess your finances. Determine the down payment you can afford, as well as the monthly payments you’re comfortable making. Consider your budget and make sure you’re not overextending yourself. You don’t need to be a meteorologist to know things don’t always end up as predicted, so make sure to keep some money set aside if possible.

Lender or Dealership Financing:

You have two primary options for financing your trailer. You can either secure a loan from a lender like a bank or credit union, or you can explore financing options offered by the dealership where you’re purchasing the trailer. Each has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to weigh your choices. You may find it handy to utilize Mid State Trailer’s financing calculator, which can be found here.

Loan Application:

If you choose to go through a lender, you’ll need to complete a loan application. This typically requires providing information about your income, employment history, and credit score. Be prepared to provide documents like pay stubs and bank statements.

Approval and Terms:

If your application is approved, the lender will present you with the loan terms. This includes the down payment required, interest rate, the length of the loan (often expressed in months), and your monthly payment amount.

Down Payment:

In most instances, even with good credit, you will be required to make a down payment of 10% to 20% on your trailer. The down payment provides the lender with equity in the trailer, should the loan go into default, helps reduce the loan amount, and, in turn, lowers your monthly payments.

Monthly Payments:

With your loan approved and down payment made, you’ll start making regular monthly payments, normally 45 to 60 days after you’ve taken possession of the trailer, until the loan is paid off. The interest rate will affect the overall cost of the trailer, so it’s wise to secure a favorable rate if possible.

Title and Ownership:

After your final payment, you’ll receive the title to your trailer, officially making it yours. This means no more monthly payments, and you’re free to enjoy your hauling adventures to the fullest.

Benefits of Trailer Financing

The benefits of financing your trailer are worth considering:

Affordability:

Financing breaks down the cost of your trailer into smaller, manageable payments, making it more affordable.

Preserve Savings:

You don’t have to exhaust your savings or emergency fund to acquire a trailer. This financial cushion can be handy for unexpected expenses.

Ownership and Equity:

Even though your lender will have an equity interest in the trailer, you’ll own the trailer from day one, and your equity in the trailer increases as you make payments.

Flexible Terms:

Lenders often offer various term lengths, allowing you to choose a repayment period that suits your budget. It’s important to note that in most instances, the longer the term of your loan, the higher the interest rate charged.

Tax Deductions:

If you’ll be using your trailer for business, you might be eligible for certain tax deductions related to trailer financing and depreciation on the trailer itself. Consult a tax professional for specific advice.

Are You Eligible for Trailer Financing?

The good news is that trailer financing is available to a wide range of individuals, although eligibility criteria can vary from lender to lender. Let’s look at some of the key factors that can influence your eligibility:

Credit Score:

Your credit score plays a significant role in determining your eligibility for trailer financing. Lenders use your credit history to assess your creditworthiness. If you have a good credit score (typically 700 or above), you’re more likely to qualify for a simple interest loan, and the higher your score, the lower interest rates and better loan terms you can expect. On the other hand, if you have bad credit or a limited credit history, you might still be eligible, but you could face higher interest rates and less favorable terms such as high-interest rates. Be wary of predatory lenders – it’s far too easy to fall victim to those seeking to take advantage of those lacking financial savvy. If a loan seems too good to be true, make sure to read the fine print. This is why it’s safe to finance through Mid State Trailer’s trusted lending partners. While we do not finance directly with our customers, we have years of experience working with our lending partners and can make a recommendation based on your specific needs and financial situation.

Income and Employment:

Lenders will also consider your income and employment stability. A steady job with a reliable income source makes you a more attractive candidate for financing. They’ll want to see that you have the means to repay the loan.

Debt-to-Income Ratio:

Your debt-to-income ratio, which measures your monthly debt payments against your monthly income, is another important factor. Lenders prefer to see a lower debt-to-income ratio, as it suggests you have more financial flexibility to manage your loan payments.

Down Payment:

The size of your down payment can affect your eligibility and loan terms. A larger down payment can reduce the loan amount and potentially help you secure better interest rates.

Co-Signer:

If your credit or financial situation isn’t strong enough to qualify for financing on your own, having a co-signer with a strong credit history can increase your chances of approval.

Dealer Financing:

Dealerships often have more flexible eligibility criteria for financing, making them a good option for those with less-than-perfect credit or limited financial history. However, keep in mind that dealer financing might come with higher interest rates compared to securing a loan from a bank or credit union.

Refinancing:

If you initially face higher interest rates due to bad credit or other factors, you may have the option to refinance your trailer loan in the future. As your credit improves and you make consistent payments, you could qualify for a lower interest rate, reducing your monthly payments and overall trailer cost.

In Conclusion

Financing your trailer through a simple interest loan can be the key to turning your hauling and transport dreams into a reality. It offers an accessible path to trailer ownership, allowing you to spread the cost over time and fit it into your budget. While there may be some challenges, such as high interest rates for those with bad credit, with careful planning and smart financial choices, you can make trailer ownership a reality. Just remember to shop around, understand the terms of your loan, and stay on top of your budget. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring your financing options today and get hauling! If you would like a quote or have any questions about our trailers, give our friendly trailer experts a call at (336) 857-2888.

Single Axle vs Dual Axle Trailers

Robin Ottenfeld on September 6, 2023

Single Axle vs Dual Axle Trailers

So, you’re in the market for a trailer, but the sea of options is making your head spin.

You sift through jargon like “deckover” and “GVWR,” article after article, one sales pitch to the next. Lucky for you, you’ve come across Mid State Trailers. Our bottom line is to make sure your hauling needs are met, not to oversell you on equipment that’s overkill for your unique use case. It doesn’t matter if you’re a hobbyist working on the next big project, a small business owner treading your own path, or an outdoor enthusiast embarking on your latest cross-country adventure: we have you covered.

Let’s break it down, shall we?

Among the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go for a single-axle or a dual-axle trailer. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the differences between these two types of trailers and help you understand how they impact your hauling experience so that you can find the one that’s right for you.

The Basics: Understanding Trailer Axles

Before we delve into the specifics of single and dual axles, it’s important to know the function of axles in your trailer. Think of axles as a trailer’s backbone–they bear the weight of both the trailer and its cargo, ensuring a safe and smooth journey. Axles consist of a central beam around which the wheels are attached, and they come in various weight capacities, such as a “5000 lb trailer axle,” for example.

Single-Axle Trailers: Simplicity and Maneuverability

Let’s start with single-axle trailers. As the name suggests, these trailers have only one axle, which means they’re equipped with a single set of wheels. The simplicity of this design has its perks, especially if you’re in the business of towing lighter loads. Single-axle trailers are generally lighter, making them easier on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, and therefore your wallet.

Maneuverability is another perk of single-axle trailers. They boast a tighter turning radius, making navigation through narrow spaces, busy streets, and tight corners simpler. If you’re a solo traveler, a craft hobbyist, or a small business owner in an industry such as landscaping who needs to transfer lightweight tools and equipment between job sites, a single-axle trailer could be an excellent fit.

However, it’s essential to note that single-axle trailers do have limitations when it comes to load capacity. They might not be the best choice for transporting bulky or heavy cargo due to the weight constraints of a single axle. If that sounds familiar to your use case, you may want to turn your head in the direction of a dual-axle.

Dual-Axle Trailers: Stability and Increased Payload

Now, let’s shift our attention to dual-axle trailers, also known as tandem-axle trailers. These trailers are equipped with two axles and four wheels, distributing the weight of the trailer and its contents more evenly. This setup offers several advantages that cater to those hauling heavier loads.

The increased weight-bearing capacity of dual-axle trailers can be a game-changer, depending on your use case. Thanks to the extra axle, these trailers can handle a higher payload compared to their single-axle counterparts. If you’re planning to transport larger items, such as furniture, construction materials, or vehicles, a dual-axle trailer is likely the way to go. After all, fewer trips made possible by higher capacity can save more than a few bucks; heaven knows gas prices will never be as forgiving as they may have been in your youth.

Dual axle trailers also provide a higher level of safety should a tire ever go soft or flat. One of the rules of safe trailer travel is to check your tires and tire pressure before every trip. The reason is clear – a trailer with a flat tire will sway and wobble creating a very dangerous situation, especially with heavier loads and at higher speeds. Having dual wheels on each side of the trailer can add a critical, redundant layer of safety when one tires goes flat.

Does Axle Type Correspond to Certain Trailer Types?

Absolutely! The choice between a single-axle and dual-axle trailer often aligns with the type of trailer you’re looking for and the intended purpose of your hauling needs. Two common trailer types and their typical axle configurations are as follows:

Flatbed “Deckover” Trailers: Flatbed trailers are versatile workhorses used for transporting all sorts of goods, from equipment to building materials, with the added benefit of rear and side loading/unloading. Single-axle flatbed trailers are excellent for lighter loads, like landscaping tools, small appliances, and low volumes of raw material. On the other hand, dual-axle flatbed trailers shine when you’re dealing with bulkier cargo, such as lumber, machinery, or even multiple vehicles.

Gooseneck Trailers: Gooseneck trailers, often used for heavy-duty applications, benefit greatly from dual axles. These trailers attach to a hitch in the bed of a pickup truck (rather than the bumper), distributing the load’s weight over both the truck and trailer axles. The added stability of dual axles ensures a smoother ride and minimizes the strain on your towing vehicle, though they are not compatible with every vehicle. Goosenecks are your go-to for towing large loads of up to 38,500 lbs over long distances.

Matching Your Needs: Which Axle Type Should You Choose?

Ultimately, deciding between a single-axle and a dual-axle trailer boils down to your specific use case. Consider these factors to help you make an informed choice:

Cargo Weight: If you’re mainly hauling lightweight items or recreational gear, a single-axle trailer might suffice. For heavy cargo, dual axles provide the necessary stability and payload capacity.
Maneuverability vs. Stability: Are you maneuvering through urban streets or towing long distances on highways? Single-axle trailers are more agile, while dual-axle trailers offer enhanced stability for highway journeys.
Frequency of Use: If you’re an occasional hauler, a single-axle trailer could be a budget-friendly option. However, if hauling is a regular part of your personal life or business, investing in a dual-axle trailer might be a wiser long-term choice. While it may cost more upfront, getting matched with the right equipment is essential to saving costs in the long run.
Future Growth: Consider your potential future needs. If you anticipate taking on larger loads in the future, a dual-axle trailer provides room for expansion without needing to upgrade.

Choosing between a single-axle and a dual-axle trailer involves weighing your cargo, hauling needs, and the type of trailer you require. To reiterate, single-axle trailers offer simplicity and maneuverability for lighter loads, while dual-axle trailers provide stability and increased payload capacity, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. Our team at Mid State Trailers understand the importance of this decision, so we want you to be able to confidently select the right trailer axle configuration that will make your hauling experience smooth and efficient, whether you’re cruising with one axle or rolling with two. If you would like a quote or have any questions about our trailers, give our friendly trailer experts a call at (336) 857-2888!