Dump trailers are invaluable for hauling and unloading materials, whether for landscaping, construction, farming, or general clean-up. AutoQuest Trailers carries a wide range of models/sizes, features, and capacities. These tips provide shoppers with practical insights and key considerations to ensure a smart and confident purchase.

1. Assess Your Needs

• Payload Requirements: Determine the maximum weight you’ll need to haul regularly. Consider both the weight and volume of typical loads (e.g., soil, gravel, debris).
• Strength & Durability: if you’re hauling equipment, ensure the trailer capacity and build will withstand the weight as well as the ramps for loading.
• Usage Frequency: Will the trailer be used daily, seasonally, or occasionally? Higher frequency may justify investing in premium options.
• Hauling Vehicle Compatibility: Confirm your truck or tow vehicle’s towing capacity, hitch type, and braking system compatibility.

2. Key Features to Consider

• Size & Capacity: Dump trailers come in various lengths (e.g., 10 – 16 feet) and capacities (e.g., 5,200 – 21,000 lbs.). Choose a size that fits your typical jobs and storage space.
• Material & Build: Look for robust steel frames and beds. Paint process and powder-coated finishes offer better resistance to rust and harsh Canadian weather.
• Hydraulic System: Dump trailers use either electric or scissor-lift hydraulics or telescopic cylinder hydraulic systems for dumping. Check for reliability, ease of maintenance, and battery accessibility.
• Gate & Side Options: side heights and multi-way gates (barn door, spreader, combo) provide flexibility for different materials and unloading methods.
• Tarp System: A quality tarp system helps keep loads covered and compliant with local transport regulations.
• Axles & Suspension: Dual or triple axles support heavier loads and improve stability. Ensure the suspension is rated for your intended use.
• Brakes & Lights: Electric brakes are standard on tandem axles but check for appropriate wiring and LED lighting for safety, especially on rural or poorly lit roads.

3. Local Regulations & Compliance

Different provinces and municipalities may have rules for dump trailer use, including load limits, lighting, and tarp requirements. Confirm that your trailer meets Transport Canada standards and any local bylaws to avoid fines or towing issues.

4. Budgeting & Financing

Dump trailer prices depend on size and features. Consider additional costs for taxes, registration/insurance, and accessories such as spare tires. At AutoQuest Trailers we offer both financing or lease to own options.  Both have benefits depending on your situation.

5. Benefits of Buying New at AutoQuest Trailers

• Warranty Coverage
• Reliability and Condition
• Impeccable Before, During and After Purchase Service (we do Warranty and Repairs, Stock OE Parts and Accessories and Complete Insurance Claims)
• Latest Features and Technology
• Customization Options
• Higher Resale Value
• Over 25 Years of Experience in the Business

 
By careful considering your needs, budget, and available options, you can select a dump trailer that will serve you reliably for years to come. Contact AutoQuest Trailers to have any of your questions answered - your investment deserves thorough research and attention.



Things to Consider When Buying an Enclosed Trailer
Buying a cargo trailer requires matching the trailer’s weight and size to your towing vehicle's capacity while ensuring the build quality meets your specific hauling needs.
 
Determining Size and Capacity
The first step is understanding what you will haul and how much your vehicle can safely pull.
Towing Capacity: Check your vehicle's owner's manual for its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Your vehicle must be able to handle the weight of the trailer plus its maximum intended load.
Payload Capacity: This is the weight of the cargo you can add, calculated by subtracting the trailer's empty weight from its own GVWR.
Common Dimensions: Widths typically range from 4' to 8.5', with lengths between 6' and 32'.
4’, 5'& 6' widths: Suitable for small tools, motorcycles, or light business use.
7'–8.5' widths: Best for furniture, multiple vehicles, or professional contracting.
 
Construction and Material Options
The materials used impact the trailer's lifespan, weight, and price.
Steel vs. Aluminum: Steel is typically more affordable and stronger but heavier and prone to rust. Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant but generally costs more.
Frame and Walls: Look for full tube frame construction for maximum strength. For interiors, products such as vinyl walls, Drymax, or aluminum are superior to lighter plywood panels.
Roof Design: A one-piece roof is often considered mandatory to prevent leaks. Both aluminum and translucent fiberglass are durable options. 
Axles: Single-axle trailers are more maneuverable and better for light loads, while tandem-axle trailers offer better stability at high speeds and can carry significantly more weight. Trailers either have torsion or spring axles. Depending on how the trailer is being used there are advantages and disadvantages to each.
 
Key Features and Customization
Choose features based on how you plan to load and secure your items.
Door Types: Ramp doors are essential for wheeled equipment like ATVs or motorcycles. Barn doors are more convenient in tight spaces or for loading boxes by hand.
Exterior Finish: Screwless exteriors provide a smoother look for branding and better resale value, whereas screwed exteriors are more affordable and easier to repair.
Skin Thickness: A thicker outer skin (e.g., .080 aluminum) is more resistant to warping from heat and provides better long-term durability than entry-level .024 & .030 skins.
Trailer Options: When selecting an enclosed trailer, it is important to evaluate additional options such as lighting, tie-downs, interior height, doors, and locks to ensure the trailer meets your specific requirements.
Trailer Brands: At AutoQuest Trailers, we stock quality enclosed trailers from reputable manufacturers: US Cargo Trailers, Ameralite Trailers, Stealth Trailers, Formula Trailers, Weber Lane Trailers & Pace American Trailers.

Final Purchase and Paperwork
AutoQuest Trailers guides you through buying, financing, or leasing an enclosed trailer. We offer maintenance, service, and handle warranty and insurance claims. After-purchase support is a priority, including regular checks and upkeep for your cargo trailer.
The quality of a trailer is only as good as the materials used in building it. By making an informed decision when looking for a new trailer, you can be sure that your investment will last. Do your research, decide what you want to use the trailer for, ask the right questions, and consider the services you may need after your trailer purchase. Ready to make the investment? Connect with AutoQuest Trailers to find the right enclosed trailer for you.