Of the 15.5 million trucks that operate in the United States, two million are tractor-trailers. As such, it is easy to find used trailers for sale from your local trailer pool corp. Before buying a used trailer, you should consider the following factors.

1. The Type of Trailer Best Suited for Your Purpose

There are different types of semi-trailers available for your use. They include over-the-road trailers, lift gate trailers, roller beds, flatbeds, mobile storage vans, local cartage trailers, and dry freight vans. All these different trailers have varying commercial uses. A reputable trailer pool corp will have many types and models of used trailers for sale for you to choose from.

You should consider how much utility a particular trailer will bring to your business. For instance, if you operate a warehouse, flatbeds and dry freight vans would be a great investment. Additionally, a mobile storage van may also be used to transport goods and merchandise to a new location. The idea is to find a trailer for sale that will serve your specific needs effectively, and one that can also serve other purposes.

2. Consider if Trailer Leasing Is a Better Option

Given that trailers are a huge investment for your business, the decision to buy a new or used trailer should be well-considered. Sometimes your business may be better off renting a trailer. To ascertain if trailer rental is the better option, consider the following.

How often you use a trailer – If you only need a trailer from time to time, a semi-trailer rental may be the right option. You can always reach out to a local trailer pool corp when the need for a trailer arises.
Can your business afford to buy a trailer for sale? If not, then a trailer rental will be a better option. Consider not only the upfront costs but also the operational, repair, maintenance, and insurance costs. For a young business, trailer rental may be the more affordable option.

3. Inspect the General Condition of the Used Trailer for Sale

Inspecting a used trailer may be quite technical, especially if you don’t have prior history dealing with trailers. You may want to have a mechanic you trust tag along when you are doing the inspection. Buying from a reputable trailer pool corp will increase your chances of purchasing a used trailer in the best condition. Regardless, extensive inspection from a professional will tell you a lot.

Overloading is the most common source of trailer damage. You should check the spring axle for bump marks and stress fractures in the frames. If you find these marks, it may mean that the trailer was previously overloaded. You should also check if the trailer tires have enough tread and if there is a spare. Additionally, ensure that all the lights work, from the interior lights to the brake lights and right and left blinkers. If the used trailer for sale has some modifications, ensure that they are properly installed and don’t compromise the trailer’s overall structural integrity.

4. Ease of Repair in Case of Future Damages

Some modern semi-trailers utilize advanced trailer technology that enhances their aerodynamics and boost their overall output. However, you may not easily find a qualified technician who can repair such a trailer when it develops mechanical problems. When buying a used trailer, consider if there is enough talent within your operational area so that you don’t have long downtimes when searching for a qualified mechanic. That’s why you should consider buying your trailer from a local trailer pool corp. Most trailer dealers have an in-house repair crew that is experienced and well-conversant with advanced trailer technology.

Whether you buy a new or used trailer for sale, purchasing from a reputable trailer pool corp will give you more and better options. Trailers are a good investment as they give your business more utility and help you increase your productivity. For that reason, you should buy a used trailer in top-shape to get a great deal and enjoy a longer service life.