Boat Trailer Buying Guide

Make the Most of Your Boat Trailer

A boat trailer is a must-have item for any boat owners. This piece of equipment allows you to launch your boat and tow it behind another vehicle. Boat trailers can give you smoothness and security, ensuring that your boat can get from the garage to the water without any damage or other issues.

When buying a boat trailer, you may not know exactly what you’re looking for. How can you ensure that you’re getting the right tool for your boat while not overspending? What kinds of questions should you be asking as you buy?

Check out our buying guide below – we’ll give you all the details you need to make an informed purchase.

Why Choose a Trailer Boat?

Without a trailer boat, you may choose to store your boat at a dock or marina. It’s a great idea to store your boat somewhere, of course, but docks and marinas don’t provide the most convenience to you. It’s a hassle to get your boat elsewhere, and you’re ultimately restricted to the nearby body of water.

With a trailer boat, you can take your boat anywhere with ease. Trailer boats allow you to transport your boat between garages or locations, also making it easy to bring your boat to vacation spots, cottages, elaborate adventures, and new bodies of water.

Trailer boats are also great for your peace of mind. If a disaster is coming, for example, you’ll have your boat with you, allowing you to determine what route to take.

Can My Vehicle Support a Boat?

Many vehicles are too small or light to tow an entire boat – though, it will ultimately depend on factors like the boat’s weight and the vehicle’s capacity.

Check your vehicle’s user manual – often, manufacturers will provide a weight limit for what vehicles can tow.

A general rule of thumb is that, while towing, you must be able to brake successfully from 30 km/h within seven metres – anymore, and you should probably abandon the idea.

Considering Weight and Size

It goes without saying that you’ll want a boat trailer that actually matches up to the size of your boat. Here’s how to check:

For size: Record the length of your boat (specifically from the furthest point at the bow to the end of the hull). You should also record its width. Choose a trailer that is at least two feet longer than your boat – your boat should also fit within the trailer’s width.
For weight: Trailers have a weight limit, and your boat’s manuals should indicate its weight. Keep in mind that your boat will likely be full of cargo, so make sure to carefully estimate what capacity your boat will actually exist at.

Choose the Right Frame

Most trailer frames are either made of aluminum or steel. It’s up to you which one you’ll choose, but here’s what you should know about each type:

Steel frames: these frames are strong and have well-protected components, but can rust and corrode easily. Go for a galvanized finish to avoid corrosion from paint.
Aluminum frames: these frames offer a great strength-to-weight ratio, though they are weaker than steel.

Suspension System or Torsion Axles

Your trailer is bound to bounce a little on the road. Some trailers have suspension systems that allow boats to bounce accordingly while remaining cushioned. You may instead choose to get a trailer with torsion axles – these limit bouncing altogether, increasing your boat’s safety at a higher price point.

Tires, Tongue Jacks, and Posts

Don’t forget to look at the smaller components of your trailer! When looking at boat trailers, find out as much as you can about the tires, tongue jacks, and posts – what materials are they made out of, and what options are there for repairs and replacements?

Consider Your Local Laws

Some regions have laws that pertain to how and when you should use your boat trailer. For example, your region may set a limit on how much you can load into your boat while on the road. You may also have to load your trailer a certain way to follow the safety guidelines set by your region.

Make sure to research these laws before hitting the road!

Maintenance Tips

The point of a boat trailer is to ensure your boat’s safety while out on the road. To increase your safety, keep these tips in mind:

Check your trailer for rust or organisms that have latched on
Make sure your hitch ball is sized correctly
Regularly check your wheel bearings and make sure they aren’t too hot – if they are, you may need a replacement
Keeping anything in your boat while on the road? Secure it with ties to stop your gear from being flown out of your boat

Conclusion

With the right boat trailer, you’ll feel assured knowing that your boat is in good condition when on the road. This piece of equipment is a must have for captains who like to take their boat to multiple bodies of water – all there’s left to do is get sailing!