Looking for a trailer but not sure where to start? You’re not alone.
At USA Trailer Sales, we answer questions every day from people just like you — business owners, DIYers, landscapers, and weekend warriors — who want the right trailer but don’t want to make the wrong investment.

So we’ve put together this guide to answer the most common trailer questions we hear — and help you find exactly what you need, faster.

1. What Type of Trailer Do I Need?

That depends on what you're hauling. Here are the main types we carry:

• Utility Trailers – Perfect for landscaping, ATV hauling, or general use.

• Cargo Trailers – Enclosed trailers that protect tools, equipment, or inventory.

• Dump Trailers – Great for contractors and anyone doing debris clean-up or moving materials.

• Car Haulers – Available in wood, aluminum, open, or enclosed. Ideal for cars, show vehicles, or side-by-sides.

• Deckover Trailers – Built for wider loads like pallets or small equipment.

• Gooseneck Trailers – Designed for heavy-duty hauling and stability.

Pro Tip: Not sure? Tell us what you're hauling and how often. We’ll match you with the right setup.

2. What Size Trailer Should I Get?

Size matters when it comes to trailers. Ask yourself:

• What are you hauling?

• How big is it (length, width, weight)?

• Will you be upgrading equipment in the future?

Common sizes include:

• 5x10 Utility Trailers (great for yard tools and mowers)

• 7x16 Enclosed Trailers (fits most small business needs)

• 14’ Dump Trailers (contractor favorite)

• 20’+ Car Haulers or Deckovers (for larger or heavier loads)

3. How Much Weight Can a Trailer Haul?

This depends on the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). A trailer’s GVWR includes the weight of the trailer plus the max load it can carry.

For example:

• A 7,000 lb GVWR trailer that weighs 2,000 lbs empty can haul up to 5,000 lbs of cargo.

• A 14,000 lb GVWR dump trailer might weigh 4,000 lbs, leaving 10,000 lbs of payload.

Never exceed your trailer’s GVWR — or your truck’s towing capacity.

4. Can My Truck Tow This Trailer?

Great question — and one we hear daily.

Look up your truck’s towing capacity in your owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s site. Then, make sure:

• Your trailer’s loaded weight (trailer + cargo) is under that number.

• You have the right hitch type (bumper pull vs. gooseneck).

• Your truck has the correct brake controller and wiring.

We’ll help you make sense of it all when you visit.

5. Do I Need a Brake Controller?

If your trailer has electric brakes — yes, you need a brake controller. Most trailers over 3,000 lbs GVWR come with brakes, and in many states, it’s required by law.

6. How Often Should I Service My Trailer?

Like any equipment, regular maintenance extends the life of your trailer. Here’s a quick guide:

• Tires: Check pressure and wear every trip.

• Brakes: Inspect every 6 months.

• Bearings: Repack annually or every 12,000 miles.

• Lights: Check before every haul.

We offer full trailer service at all USA Trailer locations.

7. New vs. Used: What’s Better?

New trailers come with warranties, no wear-and-tear, and updated features. Used trailers can save money but may need service or upgrades.

We carry both — and every used trailer is inspected before resale.

8. What Financing Options Are Available?

We offer easy financing with:

• Low monthly payments

• No early payoff penalties

• Options for all credit types

Apply online or in-store — and get pre-approved in minutes.

9. What Paperwork Do I Need to Register My Trailer?

When you buy from USA Trailer Sales, we give you:

• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) or Title

• Bill of Sale

• Any applicable tax/registration documents for your state

You’ll take these to your local Secretary of State (or DMV) to register and plate your trailer.

10. Where Can I See Trailers in Person?

We have multiple locations across Michigan — with hundreds of trailers in stock. Stop in, take a look, and get expert help choosing the right one.

Find a store near you: [Insert your store locator or link to locations page]

Still Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned hauler, USA Trailer Sales is here to help. Our team knows trailers inside and out — and we’ll make sure you leave with the right one, for the right price.

Ready to get started?
Browse our inventory, call your local store, or stop in today.