How Do I Know What Size Trailer I Need?
Finding the right rig for the job
Choosing the right trailer size depends on several factors, including the type of cargo, its dimensions, the total weight, manoeuvrability needs, legal limits, and how you plan to load and unload your goods. There’s certainly a lot to consider, so let’s look at each of these factors individually.
Type of cargo
The first thing to consider is what you intend to transport, since different trailers are designed to accommodate specific types of goods. For instance, cargo trailers and enclosed trailers are ideal for protecting items from the elements, dump trailers are designed to haul construction debris and waste, while landscape trailers tend to be used for carrying tools and machinery.
Cargo dimensions
The size of your cargo is, of course, one of the most important things to think about. You’ll need to carefully measure the length, width and height of the largest items you plan to transport. Although trailer capacities are fairly easy to calculate, it’s important to account for any additional features – like ramps – that might affect the usable space.
Total weight of your cargo
Trailers are sturdy pieces of machinery but they still have their limits. It’s important to know the total weight of your cargo in order to avoid overloading and the safety and legal issues that can come with it. Each trailer has a maximum weight it can safely carry, known as its payload capacity. This information can usually be found on the manufacturer’s plate or in the trailer’s documentation.
Manoeuvrability
If you’re going to be driving in tight spaces or down narrow roads, you need to consider your choice of trailer carefully. While smaller trailers are easier to manoeuvre, they may not provide enough space for larger loads. Conversely, larger trailers offer more capacity but can be challenging to navigate in confined areas. Think about where you will be driving and parking the trailer, and choose a size that balances capacity with the ability to manoeuvre safely and easily.
Legal limits
Each vehicle has a maximum towing capacity, which is the highest weight it can safely pull without risking damage or causing accidents. You will need to consider the gross vehicle weight (GVW), which is the maximum weight your vehicle can carry, including the cargo and the trailer. Exceeding these limits can result in fines, penalties and an increased risk of accidents.
Loading and unloading
How you load and unload your cargo affects your choice of trailer. If you frequently load heavy equipment, a trailer with a ramp or lift gate might be necessary. Consider the accessibility of your cargo and choose a trailer design that allows safe and efficient loading and unloading.
Tips for safe and efficient towing
Once you have chosen the right trailer size, there are a number of best practices you should follow to keep you, your goods and your trailer moving safely.
- Properly load and balance: Distribute the weight evenly across the trailer to avoid swaying and improve stability. Overloading one side or the rear can lead to dangerous handling conditions.
- Secure attachment: Make sure you have the right trailer hitch for your vehicle and that it’s securely attached. There are various types of hitches, including ball hitches, pintle hitches and gooseneck (or fifth-wheel hitches), each catering to different trailer weights and applications. Make sure the hitch you choose is compatible with both the trailer’s weight and your vehicle’s towing capacity to guarantee secure hauling.
- Follow speed limits: An obvious one, perhaps – but speed limits are there for a reason (not just to annoy drivers). And they’re particularly relevant when you’re towing a packed 20-tonne trailer. Increased stopping distances and reduced manoeuvrability require a more conservative driving style.
No matter what you’re transporting, if you need help figuring out the best trailer for the job, get in touch with the X2 (UK) team and we’ll give you the advice you need. You can contact us here.