A Beginner’s Guide to Heavy-Duty and Tandem Trailers

As you might already know, trailers come in all sizes. You can purchase box trailers for small cargo, flatbed trailers for simple transportation, and more besides. However, there may come a time when you need something a little bigger or more robust. After all, the best trailers can help take some serious weight and bulk of your vehicle suspension.

That’s one of the main reasons that people invest in tandem trailers. Heavy-duty tandem trailers are perfect for the biggest loads you’re likely to carry. However, they are just as simple to attach to the backs of vehicles as any other. In fact, you may find plenty of people who prefer these systems for overall ease of use.

But how do you know if a tandem trailer is right for you? What are the differences between these trailers and other models? Don’t worry. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know.

It’s always a good idea to think carefully about the trailer you need before you buy, otherwise you may end up with a system that’s too awkward or too small for your needs. Take a look at our other guides for further advice, too!

A tandem trailer is a heavy-duty system that uses two axle sets rather than one.  In fact, they get their name from the tandem axles they use.  While a single axle trailer will carry plenty of weight, two axles provide increased weight-bearing and stability.

You can purchase almost any kind of trailer with tandem axles.  A tandem trailer is going to be a great choice if you know you are likely to carry big, bulky items regularly.  The fact of the matter is, if you only have a single axle, it is only going to get you so far.

That’s why we often recommend tandem systems to customers, but it’s essential you think carefully about your needs before you buy.  By this, we don’t just mean in the short term.  We also mean that you should look carefully at your home or business demands for years to come.  After all, it’s going to be a fair investment.

Who Might Use a Tandem Axle Trailer?

Tandem axle trailers are handy for people and businesses across Australia.  While a single axle trailer is perfect for lighter loads or frequent deliveries, a tandem axle system is going to increase stability on less-than-perfect road surfaces.

A tandem axle system is also an excellent choice if you are transporting heavy machinery.  For example, you may work in the automotive trade.  You might need to carry vehicles or big factory parts around at short notice.  With a single axle, you are going to risk your precious cargo possibly succumbing to serious damage.

Tandem axle trailers will also appeal to those who are going to make regular trips.  After a while, single axle trailers can wear down from pressure.  Therefore, for the most stability and the most durability, a tandem option is arguably the better move.

Why Are Tandem Axle Trailers Better Than Single Axle Trailers?

Ultimately, there are some pros and cons to both types of trailer.  First of all, however, let’s consider why heavy-duty tandem trailers may be right for you.

A tandem axle trailer is, again, great for handling lots of weight.  You can only load up a single axle system with so much bulk.  Otherwise, you are going to place a considerable amount of strain on the one axle.  That is especially the case over time, too.  You will risk a lot of wear and tear.

You also need to consider balance.  Are you likely to carry cargo around with you that’s at risk of spilling out?  Of course, you’re going to need the support of twin axles if this is the case.

A tandem axle trailer is also going to be a great choice if you see yourself growing your company or firm.  A single axle trailer is likely to be a solid choice for very occasional use and for those businesses who know they will not increase their cargo.  A single axle is also likely to be better suited to those people who need trailers for minimal residential jobs.

A heavy-duty tandem trailer is also less likely to bounce on the roads.  This means you’re going to get much more stability when trailing cargo around.  Even if your shipment isn’t as heavy as it could be, a tandem system is ideal for precious loads.  They tend to be a very safe choice.

Why Might Tandem Axles Not Be the Best Choice?

There are circumstances where a heavy-duty tandem trailer might not be ideal.  As stated, these trailers are unlikely to work out well for you if you barely use them.  They are serious investments!

There is also much to recommend when it comes to single axles and ease of use.  You will not likely need to jack up a tandem trailer, but a single axle trailer is much easier to park and to get through smaller spaces.  Therefore, you’ll need to think about how much space you’re going to use regularly.

Steering, too, arguably, is easier with single axles.  While a tandem axle trailer isn’t likely to wobble around as much on the road, you may find that single systems are altogether easier to manage.  That, too, depends on your driving ability and what you load your trailer up with.

Single axle systems are arguably less expensive to run.  That is because there are fewer fittings to maintain.  What’s more, they may often be cheaper for you to buy upfront.  Many trailers price up based on the number of axles you invest in.

These are all crucial points you need to keep in mind when shopping for a trailer of any type or size.  The number of axles you invest in could make all the difference to your on-road stability and daily cargo needs.

Can I Customise a Tandem Axle Trailer?

Yes!  Of course, you can.  It’s simple to ask any leading trailer provider to customise a system with twin axles and in many cases, it’s recommended that you do so.  For example, you can set up a high-wall box trailer on twin axles, or if you need to transport cars around, you will obviously need as many axles as you can get.

Therefore, in some cases, it may be worth looking at a custom build to fit your specific needs, rather than opting for a catch-all trailer.  There are, however, plenty of excellent twin axle trailers out there so it’s worth shopping around carefully, and if nothing appeals to you, to go down the customization route.

Is It Worth Paying More for a Tandem Axle Trailer?

In many cases, yes.  If you need a trailer for business purposes and you know that you’ll likely need the extra suspension, then it is of course ideal to invest in a sturdier system.  A trailer of any size is going to be a significant investment.

Some people argue that a single axle trailer is the cheaper option, however, this is only the case if it’s the best fit for you.  If, for example, you buy a single axle trailer and you end up losing cargo, it’s going to work out more expensive.

Many trailer experts and builders will tell you a tandem axle is a safe option.  It’s arguably a more reliable build, and it will typically pay for itself in the long term.  You do have more wheels to maintain, and you will also likely need more strength to push this type of trailer.

However, if your business relies on more than a single set of wheels, your ideal choice is more than obvious.  The best thing you can do is speak to an expert in more detail.  A tandem axle trailer or heavy-duty tandem trailer could be the perfect investment, but only if you know you’ll need it.

Finding the Perfect Tandem Trailer

Tandem axle trailers come in various sizes.  You can customize them however you wish!  However, you must think carefully about how and why you’re going to use them.  Otherwise, you could end up with a bulky piece of equipment that simply doesn’t pay for itself.  Budget carefully and don’t buy the first trailer you see.

If it’s your first time investing in a trailer, don’t worry.  Make sure you read more of our guides on trailer shopping to ensure you have a clear idea of what’s out there.  Of course, you can always call our team too, if you have any specific concerns about single axles, twin axles, and more.