Van trailer purchase questions

If I was buying one it would be vented. I've missed some really good paying loads because of it. Yes there is other freight that requires a newer trailer but not a lot. Me personally, I will buy new because used prices are high and I'm not gonna by an old trailer. Ten years old and older is junk to me. Sure, there's some good ones out there but I'd rather buy something newer.

Aluminum roof is the only way to go.

 

Onions and taters come to mind.

The vents are nice also if you haul something that leaves behind an aroma. Like potting soil. Also good to dry out a trailer from a damp load or after a washout.

10Yr old? Paper is the other commodity that comes to mind and is picky on age. It's going to be heavy stuff that they do not want to put in a trailer that is going to break or has rotten floors. Easiest way for them to do that is look at the age.

Aluminum vs Translucent? I prefer being able to see as stuff is loaded and taken out so prefer the translucent. If you are buying your own and opt for Aluminum Look at putting a string of LED light along the top of the walls.

Other features to consider

Wood floor vs Aluminum. I went with aluminum cause the few loads that require nailed in blocking I probably didn't want anyways. Aluminum is slippery if it gets wet/iced up.

Figure out if you need Logistics post and what spacing would work best for you.

Wood lined, plastic walls, or stainless? Insulated or no?

Anchor points for load securement?

Belly boxes for Blankets,straps, and load bars?

Aero kit if you run Cali.

Air ride for me is required. I would not even consider a spring ride for general freight.

Lift gate? Not sure if you would want or need one.

Keep in mind the smoother the sides is considered the more efficient through the wind.

Meh that's enough......

What is the best trailer for YOUR operation?

 

Copper don't want old trailers either.

Just last week I saw a trailer. I'm surprised shippers even use it. The doors were ready to fall off.

 

It’s about $700 month over 60 months for a new one. I was able to get $0 down. I would look in that direction.

Vented is a benefit. I’ve seen many shippers specifically state non translucent roof so I would go with aluminum. As much as I’m not a fan, I would get a plate trailer as it opens up more options for you.

I would also make sure it’s an air ride and air slide. Composite walls and not wood.

 

That's not a bad deal for zero down. What brand did you buy?

Yes, I second the plate trailer option. Lot of shippers require it.

 

I bought a Great Dane. That $700 month is for a standard spec Great Dane CP plate trailer. I unfortunately bought a high spec CS1 and wish I would’ve bought a Plate.

 

I like the Great Danes. That's what I'll be buying.

 

Some HazMat loads and some plastic-foam film in rolls required vented Van as well.