Things to Consider When Buying a Dump Trailer

September 13th, 2022

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Graphic of a dump trailer.

Buying a dump trailer can no doubt help with your hauling needs. These trailers can haul a variety of materials, getting everything you need from one place to another. Whether you’re hauling dirt or just going to remove waste, a dump trailer is a great addition to your tools and will undoubtedly make the job easier.

At first glance, a dump trailer appears to be a sturdy, well-built vehicle that can handle any task. However, dump trailers come in a variety of sizes with features that satisfy specific tasks. We’ll explain what a dump trailer is, its characteristics, and what to consider when buying a dump trailer.

Whether you’re looking for a used dump trailer, a trailer for rent, or you’re looking to buy a dump trailer; there are so many possibilities to consider.

Let’s get you hauling with the right equipment.

What is a Dump Trailer?

Before you go buy a dump trailer, let’s discuss what it is.

A dump trailer is a tractor-trailer combination in which the hydraulic hoist is built right into the trailer. Sand, scraps, and building materials are all things that a dump trailer is built to transport. Some dump trailers have slide-in ramps, which is a common feature, making it simple to load small- to medium-sized equipment.

Thanks to the availability of a wide range of lengths, capacities, axles, and hydraulic modifications, customizing a dump to meet your demands has never been simpler. Typically, open-box bed vehicles come in 8ft to 30 ft in length; however, the most standard size is 14-ft. since it’s the desired size to maneuver.

Some may choose this type of trailer over another for its wide bed, since it’s placed on top of the wheels rather than in between them. Also, the fenders don’t get in the way when putting pallets onto a dump trailer with side gates, making it much simpler for the operator.

If your project calls for a larger dump trailer, you may need to purchase a vehicle with a higher towing capability.

What Dump Trailers are Used For

Graphic of a dump trailer.

Consider the type of job you intend to accomplish with the dump trailer.

Dump trailers are usually needed for dumping and hauling scraps, and waste from construction sites. A reliable dump trailer can assist you with a variety of projects at work. Here are a few things you can use dump trailers for:

Driveway Repair

Holes, cracks, or gravel tracks can easily ruin a driveway. A dump trailer can be a helpful alternative for picking up and unloading the raw materials for a driveway repair project.

Heavy Load Transfer

A custom dump trailer is much more adaptable for heavy hauling. Even though it may have a strong hydraulic system for dumping hefty loads, you can use your dump trailer the same way you would any other trailer. Fill it with supplies for the job, such as boxes, barrels, or equipment – and get the job done.

Landscape Project

An excellent choice for embarking on a landscaping project is a sturdy dump trailer. This workhorse of a trailer will handle the labor-intensive task of moving mulch, topsoil, and other landscaping materials. To save money and avoid an expensive delivery service, use your trailer to pick up mulch and other goods.

What to Look for When Buying a Dump Trailer

Graphic of a dump trailer with what it's used for written on it.

If you’re looking to buy a dump trailer, you might be unsure of whether a certain trailer would meet your requirements. To make the best purchase, you must be aware of your intended use for the trailer when you’re shopping around.

Here’s some things to look for when buying a dump trailer:

Size and Weight Capacity

Consider the largest load you could possibly transport or use. Maybe you want to tow a lawnmower or a side-by-side. The size of your dump trailer goes hand in hand with the weight capacity.

If the standard length is 14ft, the average load a dump trailer can handle is just under 12,000 pounds. Your towing vehicle must be able to tow both the trailer and the load in addition to being able to manage the load that you intend to haul.

Material

To customize things to your liking, you can pick from trailers constructed of steel, aluminum, or galvanized steel; although the latter two are typically less expensive, with aluminum being the better option. It is lightweight, needs little maintenance, and more rust- and corrosion-resistant.

Condition

When buying a dump trailer the condition is also just as important as all these other features. At first glance, all dump trailers appear to be sturdy, well-built vehicles that can handle any task; but closer examination reveals a number of traits that can significantly differentiate one dump trailer from another.

Don’t overlook these factors when you buy a dump trailer. This might prevent you from getting the most valuable deal. Purchase the best trailer for your needs and in your budget by taking into account all of these aspects.

Design Options

From the lifting mechanism to the number of axels, think about the features you’ll need on your dump trailer. For instance, you may want ramps added. To handle your intended cargo you need the proper axles as well. Single axles may be sufficient for smaller trailers, while multiple axles are required for heavier weights.

The height of the sidewalls is something else you might want to consider. You may require high side walls for gravel or other materials. Lower walls can’t hold as much loose material but are often more flexible. There are a variety of options available, but it’s all about what you need.

Price

Dump trailers cost can get pricey, especially when you get custom equipment made. So, you don’t want to drive off with a trailer that won’t get the job done. Also, you don’t want to overspend on features that you know you won’t use.

Make sure you take time looking through the different types of dump trailers so you can get the most out of your investment.

Investing in a Dump Trailer

A dump trailer is an investment that you should make in your delivery operations. Given the industry’s steadily increasing need for dump trailers, it should come as no surprise that more people are looking for ways to increase their revenue through the use of delivery equipment.

For example, take waste from construction sites or fields if you have a dump trailer. With your dump trailer, you may earn extra cash by removing unwanted objects and help someone or a business in need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in a dump trailer?

The main factors you should look for when going to buy or rent a dump trailer are:

  1. Size and Weight Capacity
  2. Material
  3. Condition
  4. Design Options
  5. Price

What size dump trailer do I need?

The average length is 14 ft which is the most common size dump trailer used. If you have an oversized or hefty load, consider a larger size which can also be custom made to your job’s needs.

What is the difference between a dump trailer vs dump truck?

The difference between a dump trailer vs dump truck is pretty straight forward: dump trailers come in a greater variety of shapes and sizes than do dump trucks. A dump truck is therefore less adaptable than a dump trailer. Less options are available when it comes to dump truck sizes. If you need to transport loads that are smaller than the dump truck’s maximum capacity,  this may be uncomfortable.

Let Hale Trailer Assist with the Heavy Lifting

Placing the best buy in a new dump trailer is something you need to take time to make sure meets all your hauling needs. Whether you’re looking to rent a dump trailer or buy a dump trailer, consider the features that are most important to you.

Hale Trailer will help you along the way with your trailer rental or buying experience. We have a selection of trailers ready for those long and heavy hauls. Our line-up can be found online or at one of our trailer rental locations if you want to learn more about how we can get you where you need to go.

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