Utility Trailers 101: Everything You Need to Know (2024)

Utility trailers are the unsung heroes of various industries and personal projects, providing the means to transport everything from furniture and construction materials to recreational vehicles and equipment. Whether you're a seasoned trailer user or a newcomer, this guide will take you through the essentials of utility trailers, helping you make informed decisions and ensuring safe and efficient towing.

What is a Utility Trailer?

A utility trailer is an open, flatbed trailer. It’s used to transport cargo, equipment, or other items that may not fit inside the towing vehicle or could damage its interior. Unlike an enclosed cargo trailer, U-Haul utility trailers have low side walls (or none at all) and no roof. This design allows utility trailers to haul bulky and oversized items with ease. Utility trailers come in various sizes, shapes, and configurations, making them versatile tools for a wide range of applications.

Utility Trailer Types

There are several types of utility trailers, each designed to serve specific purposes and accommodate different types of cargo. Here are some common types of utility trailers:

• Standard Utility Trailer: These are the most basic utility trailers. They are versatile and used for a wide range of hauling tasks, from moving furniture to transporting landscaping materials.
• Vehicle Trailer: Specifically designed for towing vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles, or small boats. They often include ramps and tie-down points.
• Motorcycle Trailer: Narrow and lightweight trailers designed to transport motorcycles securely.
• Boat Trailer: Trailers designed to transport boats, ranging from small boats to larger vessels. They have specialized support systems to cradle and secure the boat during transport.
• Landscape Trailer: Designed for landscaping and gardening tasks, these trailers often have ramps for easy loading of lawn equipment, mulch, plants, and tools.
• Specialty Trailer: Utility trailers designed for a specific use case. For example, U-Box containers can be hauled by you using one of the specialty utility trailers built by U-Haul.

What Can You Tow With a Utility Trailer?

You can tow a wide range of items and equipment with a utility trailer. The specific items you can tow depend on the size and capacity of the utility trailer, as well as your towing vehicle's capabilities. Here are some common utility trailer uses and items you can tow:

• Furniture: Utility trailers are often used for moving furniture, appliances, and household items during residential relocations.
• Landscaping Equipment: Utility trailers, especially landscape trailers, are ideal for transporting lawnmowers, tractors, leaf blowers, and other landscaping equipment.
• Construction Materials: Utility trailers’ rugged design is perfect for carrying construction materials such as lumber, plywood, bricks, concrete blocks, and roofing supplies.
• ATVs and UTVs: Many utility trailers, including ATV trailers and toy haulers, are designed to transport all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs) for recreational use or work.
• Outdoor and Recreational Gear: Utility trailers can carry camping gear, bicycles, kayaks, canoes, and other outdoor recreational equipment with ease.
• Home Improvement Supplies: Utility trailers are handy for hauling materials like drywall, insulation, paint, and tools home from your local home improvement store.
• Bulk Materials: Utility trailers are suitable for transporting bulk materials like gravel, soil, sand, and debris to wherever you need them.

Tips For Operating a Utility Trailer Safely

To operate a utility trailer safely:

• Load heavier in front; 60% of the cargo weight in front and secure it with tie-downs.
• Reduce your normal driving speed. Always wear your seat belt.
• Properly hitch the trailer to the towing vehicle.
• Drive cautiously, adjusting for increased braking distances.
• Use mirrors and be aware of trailer sway. Be aware of local regulations and obey speed limits.
• Practice towing in a safe, open space before hitting the road.

See more U-Haul trailer towing tips.

How to Choose the Right Utility Trailer

Whether you’re renting a utility trailer from U-Haul or looking to purchase your own, you’ll want to ensure you choose the right trailer for the job ahead. There are three primary factors you should consider:

1. Identify Your Needs

What you plan to haul will dictate the size and type of trailer you need. For example, if you’re hauling traditional furniture, a standard utility trailer may be sufficient. But for a motorcycle, you’ll need something more specialized.

Learn more about choosing the right size U-Haul trailer rental for the job.

2. Choose Between Utility (Open) or Cargo (Enclosed)

Of course, if you need to keep items safe from the elements and debris, a utility trailer might not be the best fit altogether. In that instance, an enclosed cargo trailer, complete with a roof and locking door, would be a better fit.

3. Estimate Your Payload Capacity

Calculate the maximum weight you intend to carry in the trailer, including the weight of the cargo itself and any additional equipment or accessories. Choose a trailer with a max load capacity that comfortably exceeds this weight.

Utility trailers are versatile and essential tools for various tasks, from moving homes to handling heavy equipment. Understanding their types, choosing the right one, and following safety practices are keys to ensuring a smooth towing experience. With this guide, you're equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions and maximize the utility of the trailer you use.

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