What to Look for When Buying a Small Hydraulic Trailer

Howzit, guys! Thinking of buying a small hydraulic trailer? You are a little entrepreneur with a need to move goods down Durban’s busy streets, or you are a DIY okes and wish to haul your next project up a few notches and make it one heck of a jol. Whatever your mojo, the proper trailer can be a complete, well-worth-it makeover. But for real, with all the options out there, it’s a miracle we don’t go crazy! Don’t panic! Bru, we’ve got you covered!

In this article, we are going to consider what you should look for when buying a small hydraulic trailer so that you can make an informed decision based on your pocket and needs.

1. Know Your Purpose

Back to square one: why exactly do you need a small hydraulic trailer? Are you hauling bricks for a job, equipment for your company, or furniture for a friend? Knowing your primary purpose will help you decide the right size and configurations.

For instance, if you are in building construction, you will need a trailer that supports heavy loads and hydraulic dump capability for simple unloading. If recreational, you might value light towing and the ability to squeeze into confined areas, like those Cape Town suburban roads that are so tight. Tractor Supply Co. supports that fitting your trailer to how you will use it is the key to squeezing out maximum benefit from it.

2. Size Matters

Size is another significant consideration for trailers. Too large, and you are battling to tow or store it; too little, and you won’t be able to transport your equipment in it. To get the correct size, measure the largest item you will be transporting from length, width, and height to make sure the trailer is big enough to accommodate it.

Hydraulic compact trailers are typically 6 to 12 feet long and 5 to 8 feet wide. Koop-it’s 10 x 3 cube hydraulic trailer is a small one, so it’s a lekker choice to tow around in side streets or with a smaller bakkie. The “10 x 3 cube” refers to it being 10 feet in length and 3 feet in width, which is small enough to navigate through the traffic of Joburg or side streets of Sandton. The “cube” part is referring to its volume, but be assured that it is built with efficiency in mind.

Here is a quick tip: check your car’s towing ability so loaded weight of the trailer does not leave you stranded on the N2. Business Insider recommends matching cargo size to your car’s towing ability for safe towing.

3. Hydraulic System

The most notable characteristic of these trailers is the hydraulic system. It simplifies and quickens dumping your load for you, sparing you sweat and time. Just what you need when you are alone or struggling with power outages. Not all hydraulic systems, however, are up to the job.

What to look out for:

• Single Cylinder: More affordable and less complicated, but potentially slower with heavy loads.
• Dual Cylinder: Faster and more powerful dumping, suited for heavier loads.
• Telescopic Cylinder: Heavy-duty heavy load with greater lift and lifespan.

A sound hydraulic system is necessary, so find good parts and minimal maintenance. Dual-cylinder systems work best for power and stability in small hydraulic trailers. Koop-it’s trailer has a good hydraulic system. Check the details on their product page.

4. Build Quality and Durability

South African roads are a little bit of a wild ride, the potholes, dirt paths, and the occasional blizzard. Your trailer needs to be tough enough to manage it all. Get one made of good steel with rust-resistant paint that can withstand our scorching sun and rainy seasons.

Reinforced frames and heavy-duty welds are also a requirement for long life. A trailer that is well constructed will cost you less to fix overall.

5. Safety Features

Safety first when towing, especially on our recalcitrant roads. Make sure your trailer has good brakes, working lights, and reflectors. Hydraulic hoses should be firmly attached to avoid damage, and tie-down points or straps should be used to keep your load secure.

For Construction Pros tip is to seek hydraulic surge brakes or electric brakes for smaller trailers for greater control. Whether towing along Durban’s roads or a lonely Karoo Road, these features serve to keep you safe and your goods secure.

6. Ease of Use

A hydraulic trailer should simplify your life, not complicate it. The dump feature is a wonderful convenience for unloading, but loading is vital as well. Think about ramps or low beds on trailers for simple loading of heavy equipment, especially when alone. A low bed height can be an immense help as well. No one wishes to exert himself with heavy equipment up a steep incline.

7. Cost and Value

Time to get down to dollars and cents. Small hydraulic trailers come with a range of prices based on size, features, and quality. You can certainly buy low-cost trailers, but a low-cost trailer could end up costing you more in the long term to fix if not built to last. Paying in advance for quality will save you frustrations down the line, especially under South Africa’s extreme conditions.

8. Aftercare and Maintenance

A trailer is an investment, so keep it in top shape. Regularly check the hydraulic system for leaks, assess the brakes, and clean the lights. Store it in a dry, covered spot to protect it from our harsh sun and rain. A little TLC can go a long way in extending your trailer’s life, so you are not stuck fixing it during a braai.

Why Choose Koop-it?

Koop-it is your go-to for premium, hand-crafted metal products that scream quality. Their hydraulic trailer with 10 x 3 cube is built for South Africans, whether you are hauling goods for your business or tackling a weekend project. It is compact, customizable with your choice of colour or branding, and tough enough for our roads. Plus, it is locally made, so you are supporting a proudly South African business.

Wrapping Things Up

Choosing a small hydraulic trailer does not have to be a schlep. Focus on your needs, size, hydraulic system, durability, safety, ease of use, price, and maintenance. With these tips, you will find a trailer that is a proper fit for your lifestyle, whether you are in the heart of Pretoria or out in the bush.

Ready to take it for a spin? Check out Koop-it’s 10 x 3 cube hydraulic trailer on Koop-it’s website. It’s a kiff choice for South Africans who want quality and reliability. Take it for a spin and make your hauling a heck of a lot more convenient!