Dump trailers are incredibly versatile, serving various hauling needs from bulk materials to machinery. If you're in the market for a hydraulic dump trailer, there are several important items to consider.
The experts at NITE Equipment have written this step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process. You can also watch the video on this page, where Rick guides you through the process.
But first, a quick side note about your tow vehicle. Before you purchase a dump trailer, verify whether your tow vehicle can safely and effectively pull it. Ensure it has the necessary towing capacity. If you purchase a trailer with electric brakes, ensure your tow vehicle has a brake controller.
Comprehensive Guide to Buying a Hydraulic Dump Trailer:
Trailer Type & Purpose
1. Multiple Uses for Your Dump Trailer
Take a moment to assess what types of items you will be transporting with the trailer. Consider factors like the variety of materials, their shapes, sizes, and weights, and any machinery or equipment you plan to haul. Hydraulic dump trailers can transport various materials and machinery.
Hydraulic dump trailers typically consist of a lower frame on axles with wheels that carry a bed with high solid sides. The bed is attached to the rear of the lower frame and pivots when the front of the bed is lifted.
Dump trailers are primarily used to haul bulk loose materials such as gravel, mulch, soil, firewood, roof tear-off materials, construction site debris, etc.
Obviously, dump trailers can be used to transport many other common materials such as building materials, household furniture and appliances, etc. A dump trailer can also be used to haul machinery on wheels such as compact tractors, small skid steers, lawn care equipment, etc.
2. Dump Trailer Style
Most dump trailers are of the "end dump" style, but there are also "side dump" options available. Additionally, choose between "low profile" and "deck-over" styles based on your loading and unloading preferences.
Over 95% of all dump trailers are the “low profile” version with the deck of the trailer between the wheels as opposed to the “deck-over” style where the deck is above the wheels.
There is a deck-over style dump trailer that has fold-down sides. In addition to dumping bulk materials, this trailer is suitable for side loading of materials such as shrubbery or paving bricks secured on top of pallets.
3. Back-End Configurations
Evaluate the type of back-end gates your dump trailer should have. Different models offer double rear doors (called a split gate), spreader gates or combination split/spreader gates. Spreader gates are essential for spreading bulk materials.
Various models and brands of dump trailers are equipped with different styles of back end gates. Some have only double rear doors (commonly called a split gate).
Some have combination split/spreader gates. The spreader gate design is where the gate is released at the bottom and it hinges from the top. How far the gate opens at the bottom is regulated by chains that limit how far the gate will swing open.
If the trailer is to be used to spread bulk materials (such as gravel), a spreader gate is required.
