What is the Best Size of an Enclosed Cargo Trailer?

Transporting cargo requires careful thought when choosing the appropriate trailer type and features. You must also consider the weight restrictions when choosing.

Trailer selection should be taken with seriousness for cargo transportation. It can make all the difference in calculating the time and costs for delivery and picking up your load from various points around town.

We'll look at the different types of trailers so you can pick the best one for your cargo transportation.

Single Axle Trailers

Single-axle enclosed cargo trailers are perfect for hauling small loads weighing less than 3,000 pounds.

They are easy to tow and don't require a heavyweight towing vehicle, making them ideal for those without access to a larger vehicle or truck.

These trailers provide enough space for basic equipment, tools, or small furniture.

For long-distance hauling of heavy loads over 3,000 pounds, a single axle trailer with upgraded suspension and independent electric brakes come in handy. This will ensure the cargo is secure and stable during transportation.

Leaf spring axles are more affordable and require less maintenance, but torsion axles provide a more comfortable ride and require fewer repairs over time.

Torsion axles would be the better option for light loads, considering their flexible and durable nature.

Tandem Axle Trailers

Tandem axle trailers are an excellent choice for hauling heavier loads. With two axles instead of one, the weight distribution is improved, and the trailer's capacity increases.

This means a tandem axle trailer can handle more weight without putting too much strain on the tires or suspension.

Additionally, the extra axles provide better shock absorption during transport, ensuring that the cargo remains stable and secure. Upgrading to braked tandem axles can further improve the performance and safety of your haul.

Braked axles can help balance weight distribution more evenly between the two axles, decreasing the risk of overloading any one of them and leading to damage or instability.

Furthermore, suspension upgrades or electric brakes may enhance control and stability during transport.

However, it's worth considering the additional cost and maintenance required when investing in a tandem axle trailer. These trailers are typically more expensive; given the extra components, maintenance will need to be done more frequently.

Nevertheless, for those who need to haul heavier loads, a tandem axle trailer with braked axles and suspension upgrades is an excellent choice for ensuring safe, stable, and controlled transport.

Flat Nose vs. V-Nose Trailers

When it comes to enclosed cargo trailers, flat Nose and V-nose trailers are two common designs.

The shape of their front ends is the main distinction. Flat-nose trailers have a straight front, while V-nose trailers have a pointed front, resembling a "V" shape.

The shape of the trailer has a significant impact on storage space and maneuverability.

V-nose trailers

V-nose trailers are more aerodynamic, which increases fuel economy and lowers wind resistance.

Additionally, the pointed front design provides additional storage space, making it a popular choice for those needing extra cargo room.

However, the V-nose design may make loading large or bulky items more challenging.

Flat-nose trailers

Alternatively, flat-nose trailers offer more floor space since the front end is straight. This design makes loading easier for larger items.

However, the flat-nose design can cause more wind resistance and lower fuel efficiency.

Maneuverability may also be more challenging, especially when making tight turns or parking in tight spaces.

Final selection

The choice between a flat nose and a V-nose trailer ultimately depends on the buyer's requirements. While the V-nose design may be better for added storage space and fuel efficiency, a flat-nose trailer may be a better choice for loading and maneuverability.

Tandem axle trailers or suspension upgrades can mitigate any drawbacks of either design, and buyers are encouraged to consult with a trusted manufacturer to determine which model suits their needs best.

Aluminum vs. Steel Trailers

For aluminum and steel trailers, there are advantages and drawbacks to each.

Steel trailers

Steel trailers are renowned for being strong and long-lasting, especially for heavier loads. They are also more affordable than trailers made of aluminum.

However, steel is prone to rust and corrosion, and repairing a damaged steel trailer can be a more significant expense.

Aluminum trailers

Aluminum trailers are lighter in weight than their steel counterparts, requiring less fuel for towing and also offering greater resistance against corrosion for an extended lifespan.

Aluminum trailers offer a greater strength-to-weight ratio, making them suitable for carrying more payload.

Both steel and aluminum trailers are suitable options for hauling cargo, with their respective advantages and disadvantages.

Final selection

Steel may be less costly and heavier, yet more rust-resistant than its aluminum counterpart. Alternatively, aluminum has lighter construction, greater corrosion protection capabilities, and greater payload capacities.

Decisions between these options depend entirely on an individual buyer's requirements.

Concession Trailers

Concession trailers are specialized trailers designed for vending and food businesses. These customizable trailers can be furnished with cooking facilities, refrigerators, sinks, and other fittings for food service. You can include refrigerators, grills, and deep fryers, to name a few.

Concession trailers are a popular choice for entrepreneurs who need a portable kitchen for their business. Such customization allows for mobility and flexibility, which makes it a great option for those who require a mobile kitchen.

Food truck owners and catering businesses can benefit from having one. Concession stand operators at fairs or markets will also find it useful.

Concession trailers offer an affordable and flexible way to set up shop and serve customers on the go. They're ideal for start-up businesses or entrepreneurs who want to test their culinary ideas without the high overhead costs of a stationary storefront.

With their customizable features and mobility, concession trailers provide a blank canvas for small businesses to get creative and take their food businesses to the next level.

Travel Trailers for Camping Trips

Travel trailers are popular for camping trips and offer an enjoyable way to experience nature. They come in all sizes, from compact to large, and have many features.

Travel trailers provide one of the primary advantages for exploring new locations: they can easily be pulled behind any vehicle for transporting. It makes traveling easier. These packs offer ample storage space, allowing you to bring all your camping essentials for the ride.

Small travel trailers that measure 15-19 feet long are lightweight and easy to tow, excellent for small families or couples. These units often include basic amenities like a kitchenette and bathroom. But extra space may not always be available.

Larger travel trailers, ranging from 20-40 feet, offer more space and amenities, like multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and entertainment centers.

However, larger travel trailers can be harder to tow and require more power from the vehicle. Plus, they may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces, making finding a suitable camping spot more challenging.

It's essential to consider the size and weight of the travel trailer when selecting one for your camping trip, as well as the storage capacity and features such as AC units and awnings.

Golf Carts and Utility Trailers for Outdoor Adventures

Utility trailers are an excellent option when transporting golf carts for outdoor adventures.

Generally, the recommended sizes for utility-style trailers for transporting golf carts are 5x8 feet or 6 x 10 feet. These sturdy trailers provide ample space for golf carts and other gear.

Utility trailers are also useful for transporting bulky furniture and oversized items safely. Some other things that can be transported using these trailers include garden supplies, camping gear, and sports equipment.

Utility trailers are often more convenient than renting a moving truck because they can be hitched to a tow vehicle like a car or pickup truck, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

However, renting a moving trailer differs considerably from renting a truck for long-distance moves. Moving trucks provide greater protection of furniture items while being easier on gas budgets than trailers do.

Moving trailers, alternatively, are ideal for local moves and transporting small items like boxes and equipment.

Whether for moving purposes or outdoor adventures, utility trailers provide an efficient means of moving gear.

Best Trailers Guaranteed

The best size enclosed cargo trailer for you will depend on your specific needs and requirements.

Consider the type of cargo you will be transporting and your vehicle's towing capacity. Add the distance you will travel into your calculations before choosing one.

And finally, consider the features and accessories that come with different sizes of trailers.

A-1 Auto Transport uses the best hauling trailers to move your goods. Browse our complete services, and rest assured, your move is in good hands. Get your free quote today.