Types and Features of Gooseneck Cargo Trailers

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Barista pours water for pour over coffee in a café, using a gooseneck kettle.
Credit: pexels.com, Barista pours water for pour over coffee in a café, using a gooseneck kettle.

Gooseneck cargo trailers come in various sizes, ranging from 7 to 53 feet in length, making them suitable for hauling heavy loads and oversized equipment.

There are two main types of gooseneck trailers: single-axle and tandem-axle. Single-axle trailers are ideal for smaller loads and easier towing, while tandem-axle trailers provide more stability and capacity for heavier loads.

Gooseneck cargo trailers often feature a flatbed design, allowing for easy loading and unloading of cargo. The flatbed is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel.

Types of Gooseneck Cargo Trailers

Gooseneck cargo trailers come in various sizes, but they're all designed to be more stable and capable of carrying more weight than bumper-pull trailers.

In fact, gooseneck cargo can weigh more than 25,900 pounds without negatively impacting the trailer's stability.

Large gooseneck cargo trailers require a unique hitching system that's installed directly over your truck's bed, allowing for a more even distribution of stress across your truck's frame and fewer points of failure.

Expect to pay anywhere from several hundred to a few thousand dollars to purchase and install a gooseneck hitch, depending on your location and chosen brand.

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Features and Options

Close-up of a white gooseneck loosestrife in bloom against a green background.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a white gooseneck loosestrife in bloom against a green background.

The gooseneck cargo trailer offers a range of features and options to suit different needs. Its adjustable coupler allows for precise control over the trailer's position, ensuring a smooth and safe towing experience.

You can choose from various deck materials, including aluminum and wood, to suit your budget and preferences. The trailer's frame is built to last, with a sturdy steel construction that can withstand heavy loads.

Some gooseneck cargo trailers come with a hydraulic lift system, making it easier to load and unload cargo. This feature is particularly useful for heavy-duty applications, such as construction or landscaping.

Enclosed

Enclosed trailers offer a larger space to haul additional cargo or animals.

Gooseneck trailers, a type of enclosed trailer, come in sizes ranging from 8.5X22 to 8.5X52.

All trailers come with 030 metal and have 2 roof vents, providing a basic level of protection and ventilation.

Securing cargo correctly is crucial when traveling with an enclosed trailer, and reliable tie-downs are a vital component for every enclosed cargo trailer.

Check this out: 5 by 8 Cargo Trailer

Boat on Trailer near Houses
Credit: pexels.com, Boat on Trailer near Houses

Gooseneck trailers stand apart from traditional enclosed trailers due to the shape of their hitch attachment and the fact that the trailer attaches to the vehicle over the rear axle.

Bumper pull hitches are the most common type of hitch, but most pickup trucks aren’t automatically equipped with a gooseneck trailer ball, requiring a mechanic to install it correctly.

Gooseneck trailers can be longer, wider, heavier, and more stable than many other enclosed trailers, and they usually have a tighter turn radius because the trailer is closer to the truck.

Features

The features of a gooseneck trailer are impressive, and it's clear that the manufacturer has put a lot of thought into what matters most to users. Tandem torsion axles come standard, and for larger trailers, they upgrade to triple torsion axles, which is a huge plus for durability and safety.

One of the standout features of these trailers is the torsion axles' 11-year warranty, giving you peace of mind for many years to come. The axles are designed to handle heavy loads with ease, and the warranty shows the manufacturer's confidence in their quality.

If this caught your attention, see: Cargo Trailer Axles

Minimalist close-up of a metallic gooseneck light fixture in dark ambiance.
Credit: pexels.com, Minimalist close-up of a metallic gooseneck light fixture in dark ambiance.

The gooseneck's frame is built to last, with 6" on center cross members and 6" on center tubing standard. This provides a sturdy base for the trailer and helps to distribute weight evenly.

The interior of the trailer features a 3/4" plywood floor and 3/8" plywood walls, providing a solid foundation for hauling gear or equipment. The walls are also well-ventilated, thanks to the (2) 12V dome lights and access door in the riser face.

The exterior of the trailer is just as impressive, with aluminum fenders, galvalume roof, and (2) non-powered roof vents. The white spoke wheel and aluminum ramo door handle add a touch of style to the overall design.

Here are some of the key features you can expect from a gooseneck trailer:

  • Tandem or triple torsion axles
  • 6" on center cross members
  • 6" on center tubing
  • 3/4" plywood floor
  • 3/8" plywood walls
  • Dual landing gear
  • 5/16" adjustable coupler
  • 8" side door with flush lock
  • Aluminum ramo door handle
  • White spoke wheel
  • Aluminum fenders
  • Galvalume roof
  • (2) non-powered roof vents
  • (4) 5000lb D-rings

Exterior Color Choices

When choosing the exterior color for your vehicle, you have several options to consider. The price for exterior colors varies depending on the color you select.

Barista expertly pouring coffee with gooseneck kettle in a cozy cafe environment.
Credit: pexels.com, Barista expertly pouring coffee with gooseneck kettle in a cozy cafe environment.

If you choose a Yellow or Orange Color, you'll pay $532, with a deposit of $76.

For all other colors, you'll pay $418, with a deposit of $76. These colors include Arizona Beige, Dove Grey, Medium Charcoal Grey, Dark Grey, Silver Frost, Crystal White, Brandywine, Victory Red, Emerald Green, Cargo Green, Deep Blue, Indigo Blue, Light Pewter, and Black.

If you want 24" colored metal trim on the sides, you'll pay an additional $874, with a deposit of $152. You can choose from the same range of colors as the main exterior color options.

Here are the exterior color options and their prices:

Keep in mind that these prices are in addition to any other costs associated with customizing your vehicle.

Specifications

Specifications of a gooseneck cargo trailer can vary depending on the model, but here are some key features to consider.

The interior width of most gooseneck trailers is around 95 1/2 inches, providing ample space for cargo.

On a similar theme: Gooseneck Trailer Transport

Vast starry sky above the winding San Juan River at Goosenecks State Park, Utah.
Credit: pexels.com, Vast starry sky above the winding San Juan River at Goosenecks State Park, Utah.

Some gooseneck trailers have a longer interior length, such as the FX9-824-78-T70 model, which has a length of 286 inches plus an 8-foot gooseneck.

The rear door height and width are also important considerations, with most models having a rear door height of 79 inches and a rear door width of 88 inches.

The FX9-820-78-T70 model has a tandem axle system with 7000-pound rubber torsion axles, while the FX9-824-78-T70 model has a triple axle system with 7000-pound rubber torsion axles.

Braking systems on gooseneck trailers can be electric, and some models have a jack rating of 10,000 pounds.

The tires on most gooseneck trailers are ST235/80R16, and the weight capacity of the trailer itself can range from 5000 to 6000 pounds, depending on the model.

Here's a summary of the specifications for the three models mentioned:

Trailers and Towing

Hooking up a gooseneck cargo trailer can be intimidating, but it's essential to get it right. You'll want to raise the trailer coupler above your truck's ball, and make sure it's the same size as your hitch ball and has an equal or greater weight capacity to ensure a safe connection.

Drone capture of dramatic rock formations at Gooseneck Canyon with a winding river.
Credit: pexels.com, Drone capture of dramatic rock formations at Gooseneck Canyon with a winding river.

When connecting the trailer, slowly back up your pickup truck, carefully align the trailer coupler above the ball, and ensure that your coupler is unlatched. From there, you can lower your gooseneck trailer onto your hitch ball, secure the jack handle, and raise the jack feed by releasing the pins. Don't forget to check your breakaway cable and safety chains to ensure they're securely connected.

Here are some key things to check before hitting the road:

  • Lights: Make sure all your lights are working, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
  • Cargo: Secure your cargo before towing, especially if you're hauling a large or heavy load.
  • Tires: Regularly check your tire pressure to avoid uneven tread wear and increased engine wear.
  • Connection: Ensure that your cargo trailer gooseneck and vehicle are securely connected, with the proper ball size and a secure connection.

Bumper Pull vs. Goosneck Trailers

The way a trailer connects to your vehicle is a crucial distinction in the trailer world.

There are two main types of trailer connections: bumper pull trailers and gooseneck trailers.

Bumper pull trailers connect to your vehicle's bumper, while gooseneck trailers connect within the bed of your truck.

A key consideration when choosing between these two options is the type of vehicle you have. If you have a truck with a bed, a gooseneck trailer might be a better fit.

However, if you have a car or SUV, a bumper pull trailer is usually the way to go.

Customized Triple Axle

Credit: youtube.com, 34' Custom Triple Axle

CJay Trailers uses only torsion rubber ride axles manufactured in North America, which eliminate potential wear items like springs, hangers, and U-bolts.

The MIG welding technique is used on all structural areas of the enclosed gooseneck trailer to ensure maximum strength in each weld.

Each trailer body is made with material that prevents twisting and bending through its day-to-day use.

A customized gooseneck trailer can be equipped with a double jack front, rear ramp door, or a side door to make transport and loading/unloading easier.

CJay Trailers are designed to work as long and as hard as our customers, with a dedication to detail that gives each trailer the longevity and durability that makes up the name of CJay Trailers.

Here's an interesting read: Cargo Trailer Door Locks

Tires and Wheels

If you're planning to upgrade your trailer's tires, you'll want to consider the different options available. The prices for these upgrades vary greatly, with the most expensive option being the Magnesium Star Rim & Radial Tire, which costs $540.

A close-up shot of pour over coffee brewing with a gooseneck kettle and filter.
Credit: pexels.com, A close-up shot of pour over coffee brewing with a gooseneck kettle and filter.

One of the most affordable upgrade options is the Spare Tire (15� Radial / White Spoke), which costs $120. This is a great option if you want a spare tire that's ready to go in case of an emergency.

Here are some of the tire upgrade options available:

The prices for the spare tires vary depending on the type, with the 15� Radial / White Spoke option costing $120. This is a good option to consider if you want a spare tire that's specifically designed for radial tires.

You can also purchase a Spare Tire Mount for $60, which is a great option if you want to make sure your spare tire is securely attached to your trailer.

Driving

Driving a trailer requires extra caution, especially on turns where you might lose control or find your trailer on the curb.

You'll need to pay attention to speed limits, as some states require vehicles with trailers to drive more slowly.

Sheep in a Trailer with a Chainlink Fence
Credit: pexels.com, Sheep in a Trailer with a Chainlink Fence

Keep good sight lines and leave plenty of space when changing lanes or passing other cars.

Accelerate and decelerate gradually to ensure your cargo remains secure and to help extend the lifespan of your trailer's brakes and tires.

Driving on a downward slope? Try to downshift to reduce your speed instead of solely relying on your trailer or tow vehicle's braking systems.

Heavy, fully loaded trailers take longer to come to a complete halt, so give yourself extra room to stop.

Hooking Up a Trailer

First, you'll want to raise the trailer coupler above your truck's ball. They all attach to hitch balls with a latching mechanism, so make sure your coupler is the same size as your hitch ball and has an equal or greater weight capacity to ensure the connection is safe.

Slowly back up your pickup truck, carefully align the trailer coupler above the ball, and ensure that your coupler is unlatched. This will make it easier to lower your gooseneck trailer onto your hitch ball.

Close-Up Photo of a Tow Hitch on a Vehicle
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Photo of a Tow Hitch on a Vehicle

To secure the trailer, connect your breakaway cable and safety chains. The breakaway cable will apply the brakes before breaking away, while the safety chains will keep the trailer from falling off the back of the truck bed or ramming into the truck's cabin.

Here are some key things to check before hitting the road:

  • Lights: Make sure all your lights are working, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
  • Cargo: Secure your cargo before towing, especially if you're hauling a large or heavy load.
  • Tires: Check your tire pressure regularly and tighten your tires' lugs if necessary.
  • Connection: Ensure that the connection between your vehicle and trailer is secure, with the proper ball size and a secure latch.

Towing Essentials

To ensure a safe and secure towing experience, it's crucial to check your trailer's lights before hitting the road. Make sure all lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights, are working properly.

Properly inflated tires are also essential for towing. Underinflated or overinflated tires can cause uneven tread wear, increase engine wear, and even lead to a blowout.

To avoid damage to your equipment and potential injury to others, always ensure that your cargo trailer gooseneck and vehicle are properly connected. This includes using the same size ball and ensuring the connection has an equal or greater weight capacity.

Consider reading: Wells Cargo Trailer Lights

Hitch of Old Train
Credit: pexels.com, Hitch of Old Train

When securing your cargo, remember to tie it down, especially with large or heavy loads. This will prevent shifting during sudden stops or turns.

To minimize the risk of a component failure mid-route, check your trailer and truck regularly. This includes regularly checking tire pressure, tightening lugs if necessary, and greasing your bearings.

Here are some key things to check before towing:

  • Lights: Make sure all lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights, are working properly.
  • Cargo: Secure your cargo, especially with large or heavy loads.
  • Tires: Check tire pressure, tighten lugs if necessary, and grease your bearings.
  • Connection: Ensure the connection between your vehicle and trailer is secure.

Advantages of Trailers

Gooseneck trailers offer a lot of advantages for heavy load haulers, but there are some important considerations to remember.

They're ideal for transporting big loads safely and securely. Gooseneck trailers are designed to handle the heaviest cargo.

The use of torsion rubber ride axles manufactured in North America eliminates potential wear items like springs, hangers, and U-bolts.

This results in a more durable and long-lasting suspension system. CJay trailers use MIG welding on all structural areas for maximum strength in each weld.

Customization is also a key advantage of gooseneck trailers. You can choose from features like double jack fronts, rear ramps, and side doors to make loading and unloading easier.

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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