If you need a way of hauling gear, tools, vehicles, or business equipment, cargo trailers are the go-to solution. Quite simply, they are one of the most practical investments you can make.
There are so many positives attached to buying a cargo trailer. They’re versatile, mobile, and built to last. But as with any major purchase, there’s one key question to answer before making a purchasing decision, should you buy your cargo trailer new or used?
If you search used cargo trailers for sale in Alberta, for instance, you will instantly see the advantages of going down the used route, as you get a lot more bang for your buck compared to the cost of a new trailer.
Having said that, you do get a few more assurances when buying new. What you decide will depend on a few key factors, such as your available budget, what you are going to use your cargo trailer for, and how much work you are going to ask it to do on a regular basis.
To help you decide the best option, here’s a look at what a new trailer offers, compared to the obvious argument that buying a used trailer makes the most financial and practical sense.
What to expect when buying new
There’s always something appealing about buying new, which you’ll know if you’ve ever bought a brand-new vehicle or tool. Having something in untouched condition is a nice feeling, but that satisfaction comes at a price.
One of the most obvious plus points is the fact thatnew trailers often come with warranties that cover frame, axle, and body damage for several years. If something goes wrong due to a manufacturing defect, you’re covered.
You can also enjoy a range of customization options.When you buy new, you get to choose exactly what you want in terms of size, color, number of axles, ramp or barn doors, interior finish, and more. You can even add shelves, insulation, lighting, or some air conditioning, if needed. This level of flexibility is appealing to some buyers.
You also won’t have to worry about hidden damage or unexpected surprises when you buy new. You will be certain that it hasn’t been overloaded, neglected, or poorly maintained by a previous owner. You can navigate that challenge with a thorough inspection when buying used from a reputable source, so this is a risk that can be managed.
Another obvious advantage to buying new is that many dealerships offer financing for new trailers. If you prefer monthly payments or need to write off equipment costs over time for tax reasons, this can be convenient. However, you can also get financing for a used cargo trailer if you buy from a dealership.
Why it makes sense to buy used
It’s not hard to construct a convincing argument for buying used cargo trailers. If you’re open to putting in a little research and inspection time, the benefits are hard to ignore.
Without doubt, the biggest reason people choose used trailers is the price advantage. A used trailer can often cost 30% to 50% less than its new counterpart, especially if it’s just a few years old. The good news is that those savings can be redirected into customizing the trailer, buying additional equipment, or simply staying within your budget.
Slower depreciationis another major positive. Like cars, new trailers usually lose their value quickly after purchase. When you buy used, someone else has already taken the depreciation hit. This means if you decide to sell the trailer later, you're likely to recover more of what you paid.
Finding a suitable used cargo trailer shouldn’t be a problem as there’s a healthy secondhand market for them. This means you can find a range of options in good condition, and if you're savvy, you can negotiate a great deal.
Longevity is not something to be too concerned about. Most trailers are built to be rugged and withstand a lot of use. A high-quality used trailer, even one that’s been on the road for a few years, often has plenty of life left. Many frames, axles, and bodies can last 15–20 years with proper care.
Tips to follow when buying a used trailer
The key to a successful used trailer purchase is doing your homework. You should be fine as long as you look closely at certain aspects of the trailer’s conditions.
Look closely at the frame and undercarriage and check for rust, cracks, or signs of repair. You should also confirm the axle is in good condition and that all the wiring and lights work fine. Also, make sure you check the floor and walls of the trailer for any signs of water damage or warping. Lastly, be sure to verify ownership details and ensure the trailer isn’t stolen or salvaged. That won’t be an issue if you buy through a dealership, as they will carry out due diligence beforehand.
All things considered, buying a used cargo trailer tends to be the smarter option.
The fundamentals are compelling. You get to save a significant amount of money without sacrificing functionality, and much in the way of quality. You can often find well-maintained trailers with the specs you need, so you shouldn’t have to make compromises, and another big positive is the fact that you’ll avoid the biggest depreciation hit.
Although a new trailer seems appealing, especially if you value maximum peace of mind and want a range of customization options, used trailers offer greater value, slower depreciation, and often very little sacrifice in terms of performance.
If you’re willing to take the time to inspect a few models, ask all the right questions, and know what to look for, buying a used cargo trailer can be one of the best decisions you make.
Buying a used cargo trailer still means that you get the hauling capacity you need, combined with the satisfaction of knowing you didn’t overspend.
Check out your options if you are in the market for a cargo trailer. Once you start to weigh up all the key considerations, you will almost certainly conclude that buying used makes the most sense.
