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Enclosed Trailer Buying Guide

May. 8 2020 Buying Guide By ___

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Enclosed trailers are the most secure way to transport your cargo. Every item gets loaded up into the enclosed space, which guards it from weather damage and theft. There are many different models and features out there, so we created the following buyer's guide to assist in your search. If you have any questions or want to explore enclosed trailers for sale, head over to Noteboom RV. Our dealership is based in Harrisburg, South Dakota, and Sheldon, Iowa. 

1. Make a Budget

Enclosed trailers come at a range of price points. Think about what your limit is, which will let you eliminate options outside of that at the start of your search. No use wasting time learning about models that are beyond your budget!

As you set the number, you'll want to consider a few factors.

  • how long you want the enclosed trailer to last: if this purchase needs to last you for many years, spend extra to ensure durability.
  • how often you'll use the enclosed trailer: the more often you will use the enclosed trailer, the more you will want to invest in features to make your work easier.
  • when you need the enclosed trailer: you can save money by buying during the off-season.

2. Pick an Enclosed Trailer Material

Most enclosed trailers are either made primarily from aluminum or steel. Each material offers perks.

Aluminum enclosed trailers:

  • are usually lighter, which can make towing easier
  • won't guzzle as much gas to tow
  • are more immune to rust

Steel enclosed trailers:

  • are usually longer lasting
  • stand strong against general wear and tear
  • are easy to get fixed since more welders work with steel

3. Determine the Right Outer Skin Thickness

Some enclosed trailers have thin outer skin while others have thick outer skin. You'll get better protection and durability with thicker skin, but the extra material does increase the price. If you'll be hauling through tough terrain and harsh weather conditions, it's wise to invest in thicker outer skin.

4. Pick a Roof Shape

There are two common roof shapes: rounded or flat.

Enclosed trailers with flat roofs:

  • are usually more affordable
  • tend to collect rainwater and debris on the roof, which means you'll need to clean the roof more often

Enclosed trailers with rounded roofs:

  • are usually higher in price
  • have a little bit more internal height, allowing you to pack a little bit more for each load
  • allow rainwater and debris to more easily slide off of the roof, which means you won't need to spend as much time cleaning

5. Determine Your Ideal Enclosed Trailer Size

Some enclosed trailers are compact, others are massive, and others are somewhere in-between. The goal is to get a good balance. You don't want to get a model that's too big and end up paying for space you never use. You also don't want to get a model that's too small and end up making multiple trips. Some people base the enclosed trailer size off of their average load while others base it off of the largest load they will carry. Enclosed trailers are usually between 5' and 8' wide and 8' and 32' long, making it easy to find the perfect size for your needs.

Ready to shop enclosed trailers for sale? Check out the models for sale at Noteboom RV. Our friendly staff is happy to help you find the best model for your lifestyle, so stop by and visit our dealership today. We proudly serve those in Sioux City, Iowa, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.