Advantages Of An Aluminum Cargo Trailer When Compared To Steel
Posted on: 6 February 2017
If you plan to buy a cargo trailer to haul your bike or other equipment around, then the first decision you'll have to make is if you want to buy steel or aluminum. The main advantage to steel is that it is less expensive. However, even though an aluminum trailer costs a little more, it has enough advantages to make the cost worthwhile. Here's a look at why an aluminum trailer is a good choice.
Aluminum Is Lightweight
Aluminum is lighter than steel. This gives an aluminum trailer several advantages over one made from a heavier material. For one thing, you'll be able to carry more cargo and stay within the towing weight of your vehicle. A lighter trailer is also easier to handle when you're driving. Also, when you pull less weight, you should get better gas mileage on your vehicle, which is important if you travel long distances with your trailer.
Aluminum Is Low Maintenance
A nice advantage of aluminum is that it is practically maintenance free. Aluminum won't rust, so there won't be as much upkeep involved in preventing deterioration. This helps your aluminum trailer hold onto its value for longer so you get a higher price when you're ready to sell it. You'll still have to do things like keep the hinges lubricated and wash spills and acidic substances off the floor to prevent stains, but other than that all you'll have to do is wash the trailer to keep it looking nice. Steel on the other hand requires constant maintenance because a scratch can lead to rusty spots. If you haul heavy cargo, scratches and scrapes will be fairly common, so you could spend a lot of time fighting rust on a steel trailer.
Aluminum Is Strong
You may associate aluminum with soda cans and think it is a weak material. However, it is very strong, and in some cases, it is stronger than steel due to the way an aluminum trailer is constructed. Steel is a strong material too, but the problem with it is that it is less elastic. If you kick steel, it dents and stays that way. Aluminum can absorb shock better and bounce back to its original shape. This reduces damage from daily wear and tear and it also results in less jostling of your cargo in the trailer.
When you shop for a new trailer, you should give consideration to one made of aluminum even if it does cost more. Be sure to look at used aluminum trailers if there are some on the lot so you can see how well one holds up after a few years of use. If you don't want to spend time on maintenance and repairs or if you need a light trailer due to the towing capacity of your vehicle, then aluminum is a good choice. Click here for more information.
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