Tips for buying a trailer in Raleigh North Carolina
Buying a trailer in Raleigh, North Carolina, or anywhere, requires careful consideration to ensure you get the right trailer for your needs at a fair price. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:
- Determine the Type of Trailer You Need
- Utility Trailers: Great for hauling equipment, small vehicles, or materials like mulch, soil, or furniture.
- Car Haulers: If you need to transport a car or other large vehicles, look for a car hauler or auto transport trailer.
- Enclosed Trailers: Ideal if you need protection for goods or vehicles from the elements.
- Cargo Trailers: For hauling goods, these come in both open and enclosed varieties.
- Dump Trailers: If you need to haul and unload heavy materials like gravel, dirt, or construction debris, dump trailers are a good option.
- Recreational Trailers: If you’re hauling an RV, boat, or trailer for ATVs, motorcycles, etc., consider a specialized trailer for that purpose.
- Consider Your Towing Vehicle’s Capacity
- Make sure your tow vehicle can handle the trailer’s weight. You’ll need to check the towing capacity of your vehicle, which can be found in the owner’s manual or online. Pay attention to both the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer and its payload capacity.
- Don’t forget to factor in the weight of the trailer itself, which will be added to the total weight you’re towing.
- Research Trailer Brands and Dealers
- Some well-known trailer manufacturers include Big Tex Trailers, Car Mate Trailers, Load Trail, and Look Trailers.
Research online and read reviews about local dealers to ensure you’re working with a reputable seller.
- New vs. Used Trailers
- New Trailers: Higher initial cost, but they come with warranties and the peace of mind that you’re buying a trailer in top condition.
- Used Trailers: Lower cost, but make sure to thoroughly inspect the trailer for wear and tear, rust, tire condition, and any potential repairs needed. Ask for a maintenance history if available.
- Many dealers sell used trailers with limited warranties or offer services like a safety inspection before the purchase. Check whether the seller has a good reputation for servicing used units.
- Trailer Size and Configuration
- Consider length and width based on what you plan to haul. A trailer that is too small will limit what you can carry, while one that’s too large could be harder to maneuver and unnecessarily heavy.
- If you’re hauling a car or large equipment, make sure the loading ramp or gate is designed for easy access.
- Think about whether you need a single axle or dual axle trailer. Dual axles offer better stability and higher load capacities, while single axles are lighter and more maneuverable.
- Check the Trailer’s Features
- Brakes: If the trailer’s weight is over a certain limit (usually 3,000 lbs), you may need brakes on the trailer. Some trailers come with electric brakes that are controlled by the tow vehicle.
- Lights and Wiring: Make sure the trailer has working tail lights, turn signals, and brake lights. The electrical wiring system should match the towing vehicle’s setup (7-pin or 4-pin connectors).
- Suspension and Tires: Look for heavy-duty tires that can handle your load and provide a smooth ride. Suspension plays an important role in ride quality and safety.
- Jack: A good manual or electric jack can make a big difference when hitching or unhitching the trailer.
- Consider Trailer Storage Options
- If you don’t have a lot of space at home, consider where you’ll store the trailer. Some people prefer to park their trailers at storage facilities with security, especially if they only use the trailer occasionally.
- Check Local Regulations
- Registration & Licensing: In North Carolina, trailers that are over 2,000 lbs must be registered with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). The dealer may handle this for you, or you can register it yourself at a DMV office.
- Title: Make sure the trailer comes with a clean title (for used trailers) or paperwork indicating ownership for new trailers. This is important for registration.
- Weight Limits & Towing Laws: Be aware of any towing laws in North Carolina, including limits on the gross vehicle weight (GVW) or the type of towing hitch required.
- Negotiate the Price
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the seller, especially for used trailers. Prices can often be flexible, and you may be able to get a better deal by pointing out any imperfections or if you’ve done research on similar models.
- Financing and Warranties
- Financing: Some dealerships offer financing, but be sure to shop around for the best interest rates. Alternatively, you could get a loan through your bank or credit union.
- Warranty: Check if the trailer comes with a warranty. New trailers generally come with a manufacturer’s warranty, while used trailers might only have a limited or no warranty. Ask for the warranty details in writing.
- Test the Trailer Before Buying
- If possible, take the trailer for a test drive (with your tow vehicle). Check for things like smooth towing, proper brake function, and whether it’s easy to load and unload. Make sure that all parts, including lights, brakes, and tires, are in good working condition.
- Prepare for Maintenance
- Regular maintenance is important for keeping your trailer in good working order. This includes checking tire pressure, greasing bearings, inspecting lights, and maintaining the brakes.
By following these tips, you can make an informed decision when buying a trailer in Raleigh, North Carolina, ensuring that it fits your needs and is safe to tow.
When you need the very best trailer and only want 5 star customer service come visit us at East Coast Trailer Sales. We are the triangle’s premier trail sales specialist. We can help you select the perfect trailer for your needs and get you on the road quickly. To learn more visit us online at https://www.eastcoastsales.com/ or check out our social media at https://www.facebook.com/eastcoastsalesraleigh . To browse our inventory, please visit https://www.eastcoastsales.com/inventory/ .
To speak to an expert call us at (919) 661-1045 today.