What to Look for When Buying a Utility/Landscape Trailer

A new trailer would be an amazing asset to your landscaping or mowing business.  To find a reliable trailer that fits your needs and what you are using it for here are some questions that you should ask yourself or the sales department.  

When Buying a Utility Trailer ask:

1. Do I need a single axle or tandem axle? To answer this you need to have an idea of the weight that you are trying to put on the trailer. On a steel single axle the GVWR is 2990# with a payload of 2000# and for a tandem axle the typical GVWR is 7000# with a payload of 5000#.
2. Do I need an aluminum or steel utility trailer? If you're going to be using the trailer a lot in the winter time, then going aluminum might be the better longevity option because here is Ohio we salt the heck out of the roads and we all know the toll that takes on a steel trailer. But most landscapers and personal use tend to work in nicer conditions so a steel utility trailer would work just fine.
3. What options should I look for the utility trailer to have?  
   1. Spring Assisted Ramp (This is a standard option on most utility/landscape trailers, it's incredibly nice)
   2. 15" Radial Tires (these tires will let you run highway speeds, stay away from 13" bias tires)
   3. Pressure Treated deck boards (a lot of these trailers are stored outside and the weather elements will eat up an untreated piece of wood)
   4. Set Back Jack (this is a small option but it'll save your tailgate from getting dented and dinked up)
   5. LED Lights
   6. Sealed Wiring Harness
   7. Easy Lube Hubs
4. Are there other accessories I can add to the trailer? Yes, there are a few different accessories that can be added to these types of trailers like; Gridiron Trimmer Racks perfect for landscapers to keep their tools off of the deck allowing for more room for mowers. You can also add a tongue mounted tool box to store ratchet straps and tie downs.  If the trailer doesn't come with a spring assist gate you can add a lift system that bolts onto the tube top frame. You should also make sure that you are locking this trailer up when it is unhooked.
5.  Is it a 2" or 2 5/16" Coupler? Typically a single axle with be a 2" and a tandem will be a 2 5/16" and this is because of the weight rating required.  Or you can have an adjustable hitch and that way you are prepared for either size.