Upfront costs can be devastating, especially if you’re just starting out. With the purchase of a used trailer, you could be making one of the best decisions ever. This is an excellent way for businesses just starting out to begin their cost-effective practices. In this day and age, that’s a very important characteristic for any company. Need more than one trailer? It’s even more important to save where you can and once again, used trailers could be the answer.
But if you’re not careful, the purchase of a used trailer can be a detriment and a money drainer instead of a money saver. When purchasing any used piece of equipment, a little time and dedication needs to be part of the equation. We’re going to give you some pointers so that your choice of a used trailer will go well and end up benefiting your business.
Remember that the most important aspect here is to match the trailer’s functionality with your needs. Now let’s take a look at some other tips of the trade when it comes to used trailer choices.
Used Trailer Tire Inspection
Much about a trailer’s condition can be deemed from its tires. While it’s not always an indication of major issues, uneven tire wear can be a sign of problems with the following:
- The tires themselves
- Shocks
- Hubs
- Brake drums
- Rims
- Wheels
- Axles
Check tires for the following:
- Sidewall irregularities
- Bulges
- Embedded particles
- Ample tread
Break Inspection
Look for unusual wear and tear through an inspection of the linings and drums. Make sure the wires of an ABS system are not cut or frayed and that the system is working properly.
Look at All the Lights
All lights should be operational including signals and brake lights. Check for wear, tear, and fraying on wires and all electrical components.
Structural Component Check
Pick up your flashlight and crawl underneath the trailer because it’s time to make an inspection of the undercarriage for damage and rust. Proper maintenance and care can usually handle surface rust. But major maintenance or reduced trailer life could be an inevitable result of structural rust. Check for fresh welds, irregular formations, or cracks where the cross members and slider rails are welded together. Is there a possibility that there were major repairs made?
Market, Compatibility, and Background Check
This should go without saying but your truck and the trailer must be compatible.
Also, take a good hard and honest look at your budget. A better value doesn’t always coincide with the lowest price.
Open your computer and see what the average market price is for the trailer being considered. Is there an FHWA inspection that is current? Is the person selling it a broker or an independent owner? Why was the trailer traded in or why is it being sold? Are there readily available replacement parts? If there are any service records available, ask to see them.
Trust Mickey for All of Your Used Trailer Needs
Mickey Genuine Parts frequently has used trailers in stock and the parts used on them, as well. If you’re in the market for a money-saving used trailer, be sure to check the inventory at Mickey on a frequent basis, as it changes. We also carry a large array of parts, components, accessories, and other equipment needed in the trucking, trailer, and transport industries. We stand behind everything we sell and the services we provide at any one of our Mickey Certified Service Centers located throughout the United States. Contact us today if you’d like to find out more.