Aluminum Cargo Trailer Options and Features Explained

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Aluminum cargo trailers are a popular choice for transporting goods due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.

You can choose from a variety of sizes, ranging from 4 feet to 24 feet in length, and 4 feet to 8 feet in width.

Their lightweight construction makes them easy to tow with most vehicles.

The average weight of an aluminum cargo trailer is around 400 pounds.

Their corrosion-resistant properties ensure they can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Cargo Trailer Options

Cargo trailers come in all shapes and sizes, and ALCOM offers a wide range of options to suit your needs.

You can choose from various access door options, including a rear door for loading and unloading cargo, or a rear ramp door with spring assist for all-in-one loading and unloading. Many trailers also come with a side access door, which delivers superior access to the trailer.

Some trailers come standard with a rear door, while others have a rear ramp door with spring assist, and some even have multiple doors. For example, the ULS6.5X16-2.0-ALUM trailer has a bi-fold gate.

Three White Enclosed Trailers
Credit: pexels.com, Three White Enclosed Trailers

ALCOM's aluminum enclosed cargo trailers are designed to be multi-functional, with a broad offering of access doors and compartments. You can also opt for a larger side access door, or multiple doors, depending on the size of your trailer.

A fuel access door is also a must-have feature, especially if you haul vehicles in your cargo trailer. This allows you to refuel in cold temperatures or messy weather without having to remove the cargo.

Here are some key features to consider when choosing a cargo trailer:

These are just a few examples of the many options available. Be sure to research and compare different models to find the one that best fits your needs.

Cargo Trailer Features

Aluminum cargo trailers offer a range of features that make them ideal for hauling cargo. One of the key benefits is their lightweight construction, which makes them easier to tow.

With aluminum cargo trailers, you can expect to find a variety of access door options, including rear doors, side access doors, and even fuel access doors. These doors provide superior access to your cargo and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

A row of freight trailers parked at a commercial loading dock, emphasizing transportation and logistics.
Credit: pexels.com, A row of freight trailers parked at a commercial loading dock, emphasizing transportation and logistics.

Here are some of the standard features you can expect to find on an aluminum cargo trailer:

These features provide a solid foundation for your aluminum cargo trailer, and can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Cargo Access Doors

Cargo Access Doors are a must-have for any cargo trailer. They provide easy access to your cargo without disturbing it.

A rear door is standard on many cargo trailers, allowing you to load and unload cargo with ease. Double barn doors or a single barn door are common options.

A rear ramp door with spring assist is also available, making loading and unloading a breeze. This option includes a starter flap for smoother loading.

Side access doors are a must-have upgrade for many cargo trailers. They deliver superior access to your cargo, and larger doors or multiple doors are available for larger trailers.

A fuel access door is also a convenient feature, especially if you haul vehicles in your trailer. It allows you to refuel in cold temperatures or messy weather without getting wet.

Steps, generator compartments, and other compartments are also available on many cargo trailers. These features make your trailer more functional and convenient to use.

Lock and Handle Upgrades

High Angle Shot of a Tractor Pulling a Trailer
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Lock and Handle Upgrades can provide an extra layer of security for your cargo trailer. Locking bars add an extra layer of security over your cargo trailer door's paddle handle.

You can upgrade your trailer's rear door with lockable hasps, which allow you to leverage a locking bar mechanism with a keyed lock. Lockable hasps offer a great way to secure your trailer.

Freezer latches are a sleek and stylish upgrade for trailer doors, and they're also difficult to tamper with. They provide easy use and a keyed lock.

About Anchor Points

Anchor points are crucial for keeping cargo secured inside your trailer. Without them, you could end up with a huge mess to unload when you arrive.

ALCOM builds a rich array of anchor point options in their enclosed aluminum cargo trailers. These options include light duty surface mounted or recessed sliding D-rings standard, or upgrades like powder coated sliding D-rings, heavy-duty 5000-lb. or 6000-lb. capacity D-rings, and swivel D-rings.

Red trailer truck at a warehouse loading dock, ready for delivery.
Credit: pexels.com, Red trailer truck at a warehouse loading dock, ready for delivery.

Sliding track with D-rings lets you customize your anchor points inside your trailer, reducing the risk of items shifting. This also cuts down on messy straps and tie-downs that can turn into a jumble and make unloading more complicated.

For specialty hauling, you can add upgrades like motorcycle wheel chocks, ski tie-down bars for snowmobiles, or sliding track on your trailer walls with D-rings mounted there, too.

Specifications

The specifications of a cargo trailer are crucial to know before making a purchase.

One key specification to consider is the trailer's length, which in this case is 8 feet.

The width of the trailer is also important, measuring 5 feet.

The sidewall height of the trailer is 66 inches, providing ample space for cargo.

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer is 2,990 pounds.

The load capacity of the trailer is 2,300 pounds, which is essential for determining how much cargo you can safely transport.

Here's a quick summary of the trailer's dimensions and capacities:

Cargo Trailer Types

Woman Sitting in a Trailer Converted to a House on Wheels
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There are several types of cargo trailers, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits.

Enclosed trailers are a popular choice for protecting cargo from the elements. They're ideal for hauling sensitive or valuable items.

Open trailers, on the other hand, provide better ventilation and visibility, making them suitable for transporting large or bulky items.

Tilt trailers are designed with a tilting bed that allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo. This feature is particularly useful for items that are heavy or awkward to lift.

Flatbed trailers are a versatile option that can be used for a wide range of applications, from hauling construction equipment to transporting cars.

Car haulers are specifically designed for transporting vehicles, often with features like tie-downs and ramps for safe and secure loading.

Cargo Trailer Axles

Your aluminum cargo trailer comes standard with Dexter torsion ride axles for a smooth and nimble ride. Larger trailers may require braked axles by law, depending on your state, and braked axles allow better performance and safety while towing heavier cargo.

Credit: youtube.com, What's The Difference Between Spring And Torsion Axles? - Trailer Innovations - LOOK Trailers

Smaller cargo haulers up to 6’ x 12’ come standard with idler (non-braked) axles, but can be upgraded to braked axles for improved performance and safety.

Upgrading your trailer’s axles can also improve your effective payload. With a cargo trailer frame upgrade, plus axles that can handle heavier loads, you can maximize your haul with the right tow vehicle.

Aluminum construction is still lighter than steel, even with performance upgrades, so you still get more payload and better longevity with your aluminum hauler.

Size Matters: Choosing the Right

Choosing the right size aluminum cargo trailer is crucial, and it all starts with considering your tow vehicle's capacity and the size and weight of what you need to haul.

A compact 4’ x 6’ trailer is perfect for small loads like photography gear or band equipment.

For larger businesses, an 8.5’ x 20’ cargo trailer is a great option, offering a spacious 78” box height.

Large cargo ship loaded with colorful containers on a calm sea under a clear sky.
Credit: pexels.com, Large cargo ship loaded with colorful containers on a calm sea under a clear sky.

ALCOM's cargo trailers are available in widths of 4 ft., 5 ft., 6 ft., 7 ft., 7.5 ft., and 8.5 ft.

The interior dimensions of the trailer box will be slightly smaller than the overall box size - approximately two inches in each dimension.

On an enclosed 7.5’ x 16’ cargo trailer, the box size is 90" x 16' x 78", while the interior dimensions are 87" x 15'10" x 76".

Cargo Trailer Models

Let's take a look at the different cargo trailer models available.

The 4x8 cargo trailer is a popular choice for its spacious interior and versatility. It's ideal for hauling heavy loads and can be used for a variety of purposes, from construction to outdoor events.

The 5x8 cargo trailer is another popular option, offering a slightly larger interior than the 4x8 model. It's perfect for those who need a bit more space to haul their gear.

The 6x12 cargo trailer is a great choice for those who need to haul large or heavy equipment. Its extra length and width provide ample space for bulky items.

Credit: youtube.com, Should You Buy An Aluminum Or A Steel Cargo Trailer? - Cargo Concepts By Formula Trailers

The 7x14 cargo trailer is one of the largest cargo trailer models available, offering a massive interior space. It's ideal for heavy-duty hauling and is often used for commercial purposes.

The aluminum cargo trailer's lightweight design makes it easy to tow, and its durability ensures it can withstand the rigors of frequent use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are aluminum cargo trailers worth the money?

Aluminum cargo trailers offer long-term cost savings due to their durability and low maintenance needs. Researching different brands can help you find a cost-effective fit for your needs and budget

What are the downsides of aluminum trailers?

Aluminum trailers are generally less durable and may not handle heavy loads or off-road use as well as steel trailers. This can impact their overall performance and lifespan.

Are aluminum frame trailers better than steel?

Yes, aluminum frame trailers generally outperform steel trailers in terms of durability and longevity. They can last longer and provide better results, making them a superior choice for many applications.

Gretchen Gerhold

Writer

Gretchen Gerhold has established herself as a prolific writer, covering a diverse range of topics including logistics, trade, and economic development. Her articles on container terminals and the logistics sector in India provide deep insights into the complexities of modern supply chain management. Focusing on the state of Kerala, her work on the economy and transport in Kochi highlights the region's significant contributions to India's economic landscape.

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