I'm starting to shop for a cargo trailer. I have model trains I need to take places and can't fit them all under a cover in a bed. Time for some sort of enclosed cargo trailer. I'm thinking 6x12 or so, should be easy to tow and hold more than I'll ever put in it.

But here's the question, who makes the best trailers? I've never really shopped for them before. I know I want a ramp door, and I think 6" of extra height so I don't hit my head. Electric brakes to make towing in hilly country a bit more pleasant, might have to get a dual axle in that size to get any cargo capacity (a 3500lb axle with a 2000lb trailer doesn't make any sense). I probably have at most 2000lbs of cargo, so I don't think top end rating is really an issue. What else should I look for in a trailer?

 

Most single axle 6x12's are in the 1300 pound range empty. My FIL has a 7x14 double axle that weighs about 2200.

If you plan to tow lots of miles on the highway, get a V-nose for about 2mpg better, especially if you get the extra height.

Check out www.cardinal-sales.com and call them for some of the best prices if you are willing to pick the trailer up @ the factory. My FIL has a Southwest and I think it is pretty nice, even has LED taillights. I think most brands are similar. I'd try to find a torsion axle vs. spring axle and avoid the lowest models of Haulmark. They should all have electric brakes (new ones).

 

Without a doubt, Sharp Manufacturing makes the best cargo trailer compared to every other brand that I have seen come through the repair and service shop.

Standard features are:
V-Nose (12' trailer is actually 14' to inside nose)
72" wall height (81" max head room)
Completely undercoated
Aluminum fenders
Roof vent(s)
Interior light(s)
Full Tubular Steel Frame, Walls, Roof Supports
2-3,500 lb Torsion Axles With EZ Lube 5 Bolt Hubs
4 Wheel Electric Brake System
Battery Breakaway Standard
32" Side Access Door
24" Tall Aluminum Rock Guard
3/4" Flooring on 16" Cross Member
3/8" Laminate Wood Interior Walls on 16" Center
Covered Tongue & Tail
Digital L.E.D. Lighting
.040 Aluminum Skins & Roof
Spring Assisted Rear Ramp
Bias Tires Standard on Sizes Up Thru 7x20, Lgr. Radials

After seeing these well built trailers, it is now the only trailer we sell for commercial purposes.

They will also build to suit if you want anything special they will make it for a minimal fee.

Cargo sales are slow nationally right now and any manufacturer should be willing to bend over backwards to help you. The only thing they might not be able to help with is price as materials have risen significantly and steadily in the last couple of years.

Any trailer made in Mexico, I would steer clear of.

I wouldn't include Haulmark or Interstate in any "best" catagory....there are just plenty of better trailers out there, usually by smaller manufacturers trying to sell a better trailer for the same price to compete with the big boys.... Sharp is one of those.

 

I personally purchased a Trakker 7x16 tandem axel this year.. I pull it with a '03 f-150 supercrew w/5.4... The electric brakes make quite a difference, and as mentioned before it weighs in at about 2200lbs empty... I purchased it to pull a Harley; or two across country... The truck is just a little too weak for me in the highway arena with this trailer.. I'd suggest that unless you need the size; e.g. for the weight; I'd go for the single 6x12 v-nose. This type of trailer is easier to tow, and helps out with the MPG rating..

 

I have a Pace that has really been good. I highly recomend the Toroflex, torsion bar axel. Mine is only a 6 X 10 single axel, that I have towed many a mile. You don't even know it is behind the F 150. Also consider a Wells Cargo.