The age-old question: Should I buy an open trailer or an enclosed trailer? Many people will attest to the lightweight, fuel efficient Open Trailers while others will tell you that the utility and protection offered from an Enclosed Trailer will far outweigh the cost. While these are both perfectly good answers, everyone’s situation is unique and we must first address certain questions: What is your trucks towing capability? On average, how far will you be travelling? What are you looking to haul? What is your budget?
Open Trailers are typically lighter than Enclosed Trailers
All things being equal, such as length, width, metal type, etc., open trailers are lighter than their enclosed trailer counterparts, thus making them easier to tow and putting less strain on your truck. However, different enclosed trailer brands and models offer the same benefits as a heavy enclosed trailer but at a much lighter weight. It’s very important to learn your truck’s maximum towing capacity and start researching trailers that you can tow!
Open Trailers are better for short distances while Enclosed Trailers are better for long travels
Open trailers are easier to maneuver, allowing for tight turns and easier parking, lightweight, saving on fuel costs, and offer more flexibility when towing items such as furniture, bookshelves, tables, desks, lawn mowers, bigger appliances, and home improvement supplies. When travelling long distances, the main issue with open trailers is their vulnerability to the elements, not a huge issue if you’re towing a car but can be an issue when hauling furniture, and low wind resistance, increasing fuel costs and negating the main lightweight benefit.
Locally, enclosed trailers can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and are heavier, thus increasing fuel costs in the city. Although these are general concerns, enclosed trailers are more than capable of handling everyday hauling duties for local service companies such as landscaping, roofing, construction, etc., and can even act as a billboard to advertise your company and add a professional appearance. For long distance travels, enclosed trailers are the way to go, most of them are built with a v-nose, giving them the ability to cut into the wind at high speeds, making them more aerodynamic. In addition, extra storage space, for parts, tools, or even water, can save you major frustrations on a long trip, provide shelter for you and your cargo when it rains, and added security when you leave your cargo for long periods of time.
Open Trailers tend to be cheaper than Enclosed Trailers
The most important factors to consider when mauling over the price of the trailer is to weigh the pros and cons for each trailer type based on your needs. To sum up, open trailers are lightweight and flexible, giving them an advantage for local hauling and everyday duties but are less aerodynamic. Enclosed Trailers are more aerodynamic, provide added protection and security when setting up at events and races, and have more storage space, giving them a major advantage on long distance trips but are harder to maneuver and will have a lower MPG in the city.
Buy an Open Trailer or an Enclosed Trailer?
Enclosed trailers are worth the investment and many trailer forums rave about the overall utility and convenience. However, if you are heavily restricted by finances, an open trailer is still worth the money and those same forums suggest owning both types of trailers.
Ready to start your research? Shop now for Enclosed Trailers and Open Trailers for Sale at Country Blacksmith Trailers!