buying flatbed trailer new vs used pros and cons

[gravdigr]

So I know eventually I will want to buy a trailer once my truck is paid off. What does a decent used trailer run vs a comparable new one? What are things to look out for? Just curious now, not in the market for one.

[FLATBED]

All depends on what your looking for 48' , 53' flat , what are you planning on hauling , to get an idea of $ checkout TRUCKPAPER it will give you a good overview of pricing

[gravdigr]

I did check the truckpaper but the only trailers I saw pricing on were step decks and specialized trailers. I'd be looking for a 53' flatbed spread axle. just curious what they cost new vs used and which would be better? I know there are a lot of variables. I just know about dry vans and they do not age well, anything over 10 years in our fleet is a POS.

[BigCam9670]

I have been looking for one as well, not ready to pull the trigger yet, just testing the waters. I dont know about 53' bit I think you can get a 10 year old 48x102 steel/alum combo spread for 7-8k. I am looking in the south to get away from the rust belt. Just check really good for cracks and repairs. They can be fixed but they are never really the same IMO.

[FLATBED]

Just did a quick look on TRUCKPAPER there are 972 new / used 48' flatbeds listed as well as 222 new / used 53' flatbeds in the USA.

[Ezrider_48501]

a flat bed is a flat bed, as long as the frame is in good shape, no cracks or welds, axles are in good shape s cams and bushings ect deck boards can be replaced easily if a wooden deck, as long as everything is in good shape i see nothing wrong with a used flatbed.

[Logan76]

Why a 53'?

[cpape]

We run aluminum flats for the weight savings and reduction in maintainance (sp?) costs (no painting). We also have combo steps and steel steps. The only problem we have with aluminum trailers is drivers neglecting them...allowing the floor or rail to be damaged. If its your trailer, I would assume you would care for it. Based on my experience, I would look hard at an aluminum trailer.

[gravdigr]

Why a 53'?

Why not a 53'? Being serious as I haven't hauled flatbed freight yet, will be starting next month. Is there a reason to haul a 48 over a 53?

[cpape]

a 48 will be lighter. a 48 will be less expensive. You will be able to get around easier. Not a lot of flatbed freight requires a 53. Unless you will be dealing specifically with a customer that requires them, I would stick to a 48.