A trailer can be a large investment, so you need to take some time to make sure you are investing in the trailer that meets your needs.

Trailers need to meet road authority regulations so you also need to check your state or territory’s requirements as well.

Registration of a Trailer

Each state will vary but trailers of a certain type or over a certain size need to be registered. Usually, although not always, if a trailer is not as wide as the vehicle towing it, it doesn’t need to be registered.

Condition

Trailers need to be solid and in good condition. Check the dimensions carefully; private sales usually don’t have a return policy. Trailers have brakes so make sure that you check them as well as indicators and brake lights. The structure of a trailer is important, so check for any visual deficiencies or rust. Trailers, whether they are required to be registered or not, need to be roadworthy and penalties may apply, so check closely. If you are inexperienced or have little knowledge of trailers and their structure, get a professional to check for peace of mind.

Types of Trailers

• Box Trailer – these are the ones you see being towed by cars all the time. These come in different sizes with some large enough to carry a car.
• Camper Trailer – made specifically for camping these expand into a cross between a caravan and a tent when set up.
• Car Trailer – with or without sides these are made with ramps and are of a size which allows the transportation of most cars.
• Truck Trailer – made to be towed by trucks these are made for that purpose only and should never be towed by a domestic vehicle or a person not licenced accordingly.
• Boat Trailer – these are made to fit the boat so should be purchased together. You can get a boat trailer made to fit an existing boat.
• Livestock Trailer – there are various trailers made to move animals including horse trailers and dog trailers. These need to have correct ventilation and safety features so check closely.
• Trade Trailer – many tradespeople have trailers for their tools of trade. These usually have lockable compartments and easy access.
• Bike Trailer – used for towing bicycles or dirt bikes. Made to carry one or many depending on your needs.
• Tandem Trailer – defined by the number of wheels. Car trailers are usually tandem trailers.

Your Car

Before you buy a trailer make sure that your car is suitable for towing and what the manufacturer’s stated towing limits are. Depending on what you are planning tow your car may need to be a certain size and any car that tows needs a tow bar fitted. The horse power of your car will determine what you can and can’t feasibly tow. The heavier the load; the more power you need. Towing can put a strain on your vehicle so make sure your car is kept in good condition with regular servicing of its brake system.

When buying a trailer you also need to make sure that is fit for the purpose for which you are buying it. Buying a huge trailer for moving a few boxes may be an unnecessary expense and purchasing a small box trailer to move a houseful of furniture will also be uneconomical. Take your time and do your research, it will save you money and time in the long run.