A plant trailer is a bit different than a standard trailer you might use behind your car; plant trailers are usually more durable and rugged and meant to hold larger and heavier equipment than just an ATV or other toy you generally pull behind you. They may also come with certain modifications and accessories that make towing larger pieces of equipment easier overall. As with standard trailers, not all plant trailers are alike, so you need to ensure you get the right one for your equipment towing vehicle. Note a few factors to consider so you know you make the right choice for your plant trailer.
1. Ramp length
The longer the ramp, the less of an angle it needs to load your equipment onto and off of your vehicle. This is something to consider for any type of equipment that sits very low to the ground, such as commercial mowers. If you were to choose a ramp with a shorter length, it may then tilt your equipment so far up that the back end scrapes along the ground during loading and then risk scraping again during unloading.
Note the angle of the ramps when choosing a plant trailer and, if necessary, choose one with very long ramp lengths to protect your equipment. Some might even come with what is called a beavertail, which is a longer end piece that can add even more length to the ramp and help you load and unload pieces with very little ground clearance.
2. Wheel stops
Look for a plant trailer with a wheel stop at the front. This is to help you place your equipment properly on the trailer, which is very important when hauling heavy-duty pieces. The weight of a crane, bobcat, and other such pieces needs to be dispersed along the length of the trailer for easier towing, more so than the weight of a motorcycle, snowmobile, or other piece you might tow with a standard trailer. The wheel stop will not allow you to pull your equipment too far forward, causing the ramp to actually tilt dangerously in the front.
3. Conveyor belts
For very heavy pieces, you might invest in a ramp with a conveyor belt. This belt can help you easily load and unload pieces that might otherwise damage the aluminum or other material of a ramp, such as those with treads and not tires. The conveyor belt can also protect your equipment; you don't need to use speed to force it onto the ramp, risking it being driven too far and actually falling off the front of the ramp or damaging the tow vehicle.
For more information about these options and finding the best trailer for your needs, contact a local supplier like Sureweld
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