How to Choose Between Aluminum and Steel Trailers

When contemplating buying a trailer, numerous factors are considered. This may include the cost, durability, strength, mileage, etc. The two most common makes of trailers are aluminum and steel. Choosing between these two can be very confusing if you really don’t know what each one features. 

Trailers were not so common in the past, and their usage was limited to a few errands. However, things have changed; different trailers are used for various purposes. Your ATV or lawnmower may be transported with a utility trailer.  

People who own enterprises that need them to be mobile, such as landscapers, construction workers, plumbers, electricians, and so on, will find that cargo trailers are the ideal option for their needs. When you need to relocate anything, it’s often simply handy to know that you have an additional room available to you in case you need it. 

But how do you decide between an aluminum and steel trailer?  

This write-up will show you what factors you can consider choosing between aluminum and steel trailers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Aluminum and Steel Trailers 

Here are some factors that will help you decide which of these two (aluminum or steel) is suitable for you: 

#1. Quantity of the load 

On average, aluminum trailers weigh 10 to 15 percent less than steel trailers so you can move a greater load with aluminum trailers. And this is a wonderful thing, particularly if you move your equipment, motorbikes, automobiles, or other stuff from Point A to Point B and back again.  

On the other hand, if you don’t usually carry a huge load and are looking for a heavier trailer, steel trailers would be an apt choice. 

#2. Budget 

Before you purchase a trailer, there is a specific budget that you must have kept aside for it. Also, you need to determine if you are flexible with the budget or if cost is a major aspect when buying a new trailer.

If saving money is your priority, you should know that steel is more affordable than aluminum. Because of how steel trailers are manufactured, the up-front expenses of purchasing one are lower. You should also remember that the expenses of maintaining a steel trailer will likely be greater.  

You may do an acid wash outside an aluminum trailer whenever there is a need to restore its finish. It is necessary to remove the zinc coating, apply a new zinc layer, and repaint the outside of a steel trailer at regular intervals to keep it in good condition. The method of maintaining steel is more difficult and expensive than that of maintaining other materials. 

Aluminum trailers are often sold at a higher price than steel trailers of the same size and configuration.  

#3. Maintenance factor 

You will probably use the trailer for a long period, and after some time, the vehicle will require a certain level of maintenance. From both aspects, https://brechbilltrailers.com/aluminum-trailers/ states that aluminum trailers are low-maintenance and never rust. However, let us still check all the factors in detail.

Cost 

Steel trailer repairs are typically more expensive than comparable aluminum trailer repairs. This is because steel trailers need to be repainted to prevent rust, and galvanized steel needs to have its zinc layer stripped before it can be welded. Aluminum trailers, on the other hand, do not require this step. After the repairs are complete, a fresh coat of paint is put on the damaged area, and the zinc layer must be repainted. 

If saving money is your priority, you should know that steel is more affordable than aluminum. Because of how steel trailers are manufactured, the up-front expenses of purchasing one are lower. You should also remember that the expenses of maintaining a steel trailer will likely be greater.  

You may do an acid wash outside an aluminum trailer whenever there is a need to restore its finish. It is necessary to remove the zinc coating, apply a new zinc layer, and repaint the outside of a steel trailer at regular intervals to keep it in good condition. The method of maintaining steel is more difficult and expensive than that of maintaining other materials. 

Aluminum trailers are often sold at a higher price than steel trailers of the same size and configuration.  

#4. Durability 

When it comes to this topic, most people forget that most aluminum trailers contain steel components built into the design to shore up any weak regions. This is one of the things that most people overlook. It should be no surprise that this demonstrates that steel is more durable than aluminum.  

However, the fact that steel is intrinsically more robust does not imply that aluminum should be disregarded as a viable alternative. When aluminum is supported by steel devices, such as the designs found in trailers, the material carries a superior strength-to-weight ratio than it would if used alone. 

#5. Value of resale 

Many buyers also consider the resale value of the trailer before purchasing one. If you want to know which one from aluminum and steel would fetch more money on resale, read ahead.  

Steel trailers’ problem with rusting is something that, in addition to its weight, continues to be a disadvantage. The normal steel trailer will show signs of rust after just a few years of usage. This rust may frequently be difficult to fix, significantly impacting the trailer’s resale value.  

However, when treated with an acid bath, aluminum trailers often retain their brand-new appearance and even come with improved warranties. This allows the aluminum trailer to get a higher resale value.  

Final Thoughts 

Both aluminum and steel trailers are very popular. Each type has its set of advantages and disadvantages. The final selection, however, should only depend on your specific requirement – which can easily be narrowed down with the points mentioned in this article. Hopefully, you find the details of the article useful in making the right trailer choice.