Buying a Flatbed Trailer? Essential Points You Need to Remember

If you’re sold on the idea of buying a flatbed trailer, congratulations that’s a fantastic decision.  They are one of the most flexible trailer systems on the market.  However, you’re going to need to think carefully about whether you are buying a trailer that is a good fit for your needs.

In this short guide, we’ll take a look at what you need to remember when purchasing, and the consequences you might face if you don’t.

Enquire About a Warranty

This applies to all trailers, but no more so than flatbeds.  Flatbed trailers are the simplest in design, and as they are open to the elements, they may also be at the highest risk of being damaged.  Therefore, always check for flatbed trailer warranties.

A good flatbed warranty should cover you for up to 12 months of use.  You should also make sure to check what this warranty covers, as well as your rights.

Check Build Quality

Just because a flatbed trailer is a basic build, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily well-built.  A photo of a flatbed trailer might show you everything you think you need to see, but are you sure of what good-quality build actually looks like?

Before you pay for a flatbed trailer, make sure you look at it in person.  Are you going to get enough space and support?  Is the trailer galvanised against rusting?  What about the weld quality?

Assess Your Long-Term Needs

Most people will buy a flatbed trailer if they are likely to carry different cargo throughout its lifetime.  However, if you’re likely to need something a little more specialist, it may be worth investing in a box or tipper instead.

There are reasons why a flatbed trailer may not be best for you long-term.  The nature of your business might be set to change.  Your cargo might need more privacy or weather protection. However, if you’re sure that you’re going to need to carry varying items over the months to come, it’s likely to be the correct choice.

Consider Customisation

You must always remember that you don’t have to buy a default or basic flatbed trailer unless your needs really demand it.  Flatbeds are very easy to customise.  If you can’t find the ideal size, shape or weight-bearing you need, why not your trailer builder to create a custom design?

Good trailer suppliers will be open to customisation.  If there are no options for this on any given trailer, you should make a point of asking for more information.  There is likely to be more chance of you customising a flatbed trailer than any other type – purely thanks to the fact that they are some of the most basic systems around.

Trust Your Supplier

Your flatbed trailer supplier should know the complete ins and outs of these trailer systems.  With little encouragement, they should give you answers and advice on what is likely to work best for you.  Make sure you work with a supplier with years of demonstrable flatbed expertise!

Take a look through our online catalogue for more information on flatbed trailers, and make sure to contact our team if you have any concerns.