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The most popular types of trailers for consumer use fall under two categories: utility trailers and enclosed trailers. A utility trailer is open and provides space for hauling lawn equipment, scraps or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). An enclosed trailer lets you lock your equipment up and provides accessible mobile storage.
Size is a major factor when choosing a trailer. Utility and enclosed trailer sizes vary from 4 feet by 6 feet to over 20 feet. The jobs and equipment you'll be carrying will determine what type of trailer you should buy. The ideal trailer for you will accommodate the loads you plan to move.
Trailer parts and accessories give drivers more flexibility and help them perform their jobs. Some equipment is critical for safety and necessary for fulfilling orders. Truck drivers and companies must sometimes buy replacement trailer parts and accessories, and it’s good to start the process before they’re needed. This guide will provide insights into how you can find useful parts and accessories for your trailer.
Are you wondering which parts and accessories to add to your shopping list? Here are the common parts you may need as a trucker.
From step-decks to triple trailers and everything in between, the more equipment is used, the more wear and tear it sustains. Having replacement parts and accessories on hand can help you return to the road faster when new equipment is needed. If you’re shopping around, these steps will help you find the right trailer parts and accessories for your needs.
Truck drivers need a lot of equipment to complete routes and navigate surprises like bad weather conditions. Having it with you increases safety and efficiency. While some equipment helps when the roads get icy, other pieces of equipment enable loading and unloading supplies. Missing equipment with that functionality can prolong your delivery times.
If a critical piece of equipment gets damaged beyond repair, you need to replace it before taking on another route. Having it on hand helps you get back on the road sooner. You can then order a replacement to keep in your inventory. If you don’t have it on hand, it may take a week or longer to receive the part and get back on the road. This delay can frustrate customers and result in them considering other drivers for future orders.
A warranty is like a short-term insurance policy that ensures the seller will repair equipment that gets damaged within its duration. Taking out a two-year warranty will cost extra, but if the equipment is damaged 18 months later, you can get a free repair or replacement. Warranties reduce your risk, and the peace of mind may be worth the price.
Don’t buy truck trailers and accessories from the first company you find. Shopping around can help you find lower prices or better warranties. Price isn’t the only factor, as some companies may charge the lowest prices but only sell shoddy equipment. It’s one of many factors to keep in mind when looking for additional equipment.
Reviews provide a deeper glimpse into product quality. They inform you on how past and present customers view the equipment you are considering. You can also learn about issues that may come up with the trailer parts and what to expect. Several one-star reviews may make you think twice before buying, while five-star reviews can instill confidence in a product.
Some sellers offer deals that are too good to be true. If you find parts and accessories at significant discounts, a scammer may be on the other end of the transaction. Scammers use enticing prices and high-pressure sales tactics to rush buyers into making bad decisions. For example, some scammers ask for over-the-phone payments and then disappear without a trace, leaving buyers empty-handed.
You can catch scammers by asking enough questions, verifying their identity and visiting their website. Even if the seller has a professional-looking website, look for user reviews before assuming the business is legitimate. To be safe, consider narrowing your search to local providers or reputable brands.
Negotiating with trailer part dealers can help you save some money. Negotiations are common in the industry, and having multiple options can make you feel more confident about walking away from a potential deal. You can also use competing offers and average prices across the industry to secure a lower price for your equipment. Dealers will know you’ve done your homework when you know what their competitors are offering. Maintaining a calm demeanor and taking things slowly can also help you during the negotiations.
Buying parts and accessories can take a while between finding dealers, comparing options and negotiating prices. Focusing on one category at a time can help you stay on track, avoid confusion and get the best deal. This is especially helpful when you’re trying to navigate budget restrictions.
All truck drivers and fleet managers need to manage their equipment. Buying extra parts helps them make quick repairs and adjustments as equipment succumbs to daily wear and tear. Any delays can restrict your capacity to serve customers. Having the necessary equipment on hand helps you get back on the road sooner.
You should ask about the warranty, how soon the parts are available and how long they have been used by other owners.
What should you hook up before connecting to a trailer?You should hook up a light plug receptor before connecting a trailer.
What maintenance does a trailer need?Trailers should receive maintenance every six months or 10,000 miles. During maintenance, you should check the electric brakes, tires, modulation and power output.
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