What Trailer Length is Right for You?

When you shop for a new trailer, a key consideration to make is the ideal trailer length. Models come in a range of lengths, from compact to massive. The right trailer length for you will depend on several factors, from your state's laws to the cargo you are hauling. We've created the following buyer's guide to help you find the right model for your needs. When you are ready to explore trailers for sale, head over to Mountain West Trailers. Our dealership is located in Heber City, Utah, and we also serve those in SLC.

1. Consider Legal Restrictions

Each state has its own laws about the maximum length of trailers. Be sure you understand your state's regulations before you start exploring options. For example, Utah has a maximum trailer length of 53 feet, according to AAA.

2. Consider Your Tow Vehicle

Next, check the limits of the tow vehicle you will be using. Not all tow vehicles can handle all lengths of trailers. You'll want to look up your tow vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is a number that refers to the maximum weight the vehicle can tow. The GVWR includes factors such as the cargo, passengers, fuel, and the trailer. To find this rating, look on the driver-side door frame or the owner's manual.

It’s important to stick within the limits of the GVWR. These restrictions exist for a reason! Exceeding the weight rating can cause damage to your tow vehicle, trailer, or both. Keep the GVWR in mind as you look at trailers. Long trailers will weigh more and make up a larger amount of the GVWR. You don’t want to get too long and heavy of a trailer and only be able to carry a small amount of cargo.

3. Consider What You are Towing

Another key factor is what you are towing, which will impact the needed length of the trailer. Some loads will have a fixed length that dictates the trailer's minimum length. For example, if you are transporting a powersports vehicle or golf cart, the trailer needs to be at least as long as the vehicle with a little extra room.

Other types of cargo can be arranged to take up less length. Maybe you are transporting boxes of tools and materials for a landscaping project. You can stack up the items throughout the trailer, reducing the total length you need the trailer to be.

4. Consider Your Ideal Number of Trips

Are you hoping to pack everything you possibly need into your trailer? Then you will want a longer length to offer the largest amount of storage capacity. This approach will be more time-efficient, but will result in a higher trailer cost. If you don't mind making multiple trips, you can save money by getting a smaller trailer.

Your ideal number of trips will be largely influenced by the length of your trip. If you are using your trailer to haul tools and materials around your property in a few minutes drive, you likely won't mind multiple trips. But if you are taking longer trips, you will likely want to invest in a larger and longer trailer that will save you time.

5. Consider Your Storage Capacity

Your trailer will need to go somewhere when it's not in use. The best-case scenario is to have a dedicated spot for storing your trailer that will protect it from the weather and potential thieves. Leaving your trailer unprotected and out in the open can result in sped up wear and tear...and needing to replace it earlier. Think about how the length of your trailer will affect the storage options, such as whether it will fit in the shed or garage that you hope it will.

We hope you found this buyer's guide useful! If you have questions or want to shop trailers for sale, visit Mountain West Trailers. Our experts are happy to answer questions and give advice, making it easy to find the perfect trailer length for your needs and budget. You'll find us in Heber City and we also serve those in SLC.