You haul: increase your jobsite storage, security, and efficiency with a tow-behind trailer customized to fit your needs

Tools of the Trade, Jan-Feb, 2005 by Katy Tomasulo

Whether you're a one-man operation or oversee multiple crews on a number of jobsites, you've got plenty of tools, equipment, and supplies to haul. If you're tired of crawling into your truck bed searching for a drill or running back to your shop, it may be time to consider investing in a tow-behind enclosed cargo trailer. No matter what trade you're in or what supplies you have to carry, there's a trailer to fit your needs.

Enclosed cargo trailers provide a range of security and convenience benefits for contractors and trades. In addition to locking down your tool arsenal, having a tow-behind can allow you to haul more, keeps you organized, frees up your truck during the day, and can provide a mobile workstation complete with lighting and electrical hookups. What's more, there are so many options available for sizes, styles, features, and upgrades, any contractor can build and buy a trailer that fits precisely into their specific needs.

One of the most important things to look for when shopping for a trailer is durability and life-span, manufacturers stress. Some of the strength-enhancing features some manufacturers incorporate into their units include dust-resistant sidewalls, steel-tube framing, and 3/8-inch plywood walls, to name just a few.

"Our products are built strong for the way our customers work and play," regional sales manager Brent Becker says of Haulmark's trailers, which feature these and other durable construction methods. "We want our trailers to outlast any truck they own."

Most importantly, don't skimp just to get a better price. "Make sure when you're buying a trailer that you are not just focusing on price as your only criteria," says Jim Hughes, director of marketing for Pace American. "You have to look for quality, features and options, service and warranty, and more. The true cost of a trailer is not necessarily the purchase price, but the cost of maintenance down the road, how long the trailer will last, how it tows behind your vehicle, functionally, resale value, and more."

Another piece of advice Hughes offers is to make selections carefully in order to buy a trailer that best suits individual needs and future needs; not buying enough trailer can lead to buyer's remorse later. There are countless upgrades and options that contractors can select to make their trailers more suited to their day-to-day use, including shelving and cabinetry, tie-downs, ladder racks, work benches, generators, ramps, and more. And, Hughes says, make sure you see a floor plan before you buy so you know exactly how the trailer will be laid out and exactly what you're getting.

As part of their convenience factor, many trailers are more than just haulers. Depending on layout and options, trailers can be transformed into mobile workstations that allow contractors to move easily between jobsite and trailer. In addition to shelving and work areas, many trailers can be wired with outlets, lighting packages are available, and comforts like roof vents and air conditioning can be specified.

"It's a mobile workshop," says Larry Huemmer, sales representative for Wells Cargo. "It increases the contractor's versatility and makes [him] much more efficient on the jobsite because he has everything with him and he can move from job to job and be ready to go to work the minute he arrives."

ToolMaster Trailers are designed for that purpose. The custom trailers eliminate the internal walkway and instead have fully opening panels on all sides that expose workstations and storage for use from the outside, allowing the contractor to open up, plug in, and get to work.

Along with the variety of upgrades, there are plenty of sizes and styles to choose from, from single-axle 5-footwide-by-8-foot-long units to a 48-footlong gooseneck trailer and beyond.

In addition to specing a trailer that suits your jobsite needs, you'll also want to discuss with your vendor which tow-behind trailers and load capacities are compatible with your pickup truck and if additional braking will be needed.

And don't forget, trailers offer an added bonus: mobile advertising. Consider having your company's name, logo, and contact information added to the side of your trailer to make use of miles and miles of free marketing opportunities.

Katy Tomasulo is managing editor of TOOLS OF THE TRADE.