Picking The Right Trailer Length

Which trailer length is right for your needs? It depends. Many factors influence the ideal trailer length, from state laws to the towing vehicle's capacity. We've created the following guide to help you determine your ideal trailer length. 

For more information or to shop trailers for sale in Iowa, visit Camp Site RV. Our dealership is based in Cresco, Iowa. We also serve those in Cedar Falls, Iowa, as well as Rochester, Minnesota, and La Crosse, Wisconsin.

1. What Are The Legal Restrictions?

Start by determining any legal restrictions in the state(s) you will be using the trailer. Many states have laws about the maximum length a tow vehicle and trailer unit can be. Iowa's, for example, is 53 feet. Anything beyond that will usually require a special permit.

2. What Are Your Tow Vehicle's Restrictions?

Tow vehicles are not always able to handle every possible trailer length.

Look up the tow vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This tells you the maximum amount of weight that the vehicle can handle. Longer trailers will weigh more and could potentially exceed this limit. Going beyond the tow vehicle's limitations is illegal and dangerous, so be sure you stick within these guidelines.

3. What Are You Towing?

Think about the cargo you will be transporting. Items with a fixed length will need a trailer at least as long - and with a few extra inches of wiggle room. If you are carrying an ATV, for example, the trailer needs to be a bit longer than the powersports vehicle.

Some cargo can be re-arranged to take up less length. If you are carrying boxes, for example, you can stack them and get by with a shorter trailer.

4. How Many Trips Do You Want To Take?

Some folks don't mind taking multiple trips. Maybe you are transporting landscaping materials and tools to the edge of your property and are fine taking two short drives. In that case, you can get by with a shorter trailer that you fill up more than once.

For others, the ideal is to only make one trip. Maybe you are driving across town and don't want to spend the time and gas money doing multiple trips. In this case, focus on getting a long enough trailer to fit everything in one go.

5. Where Will You Be Storing The Trailer?

The trailer needs to go somewhere when it is not in use. Ideally, it will be stored in an enclosed space (such as a shed or garage) to keep it sheltered from weather. Think about where you will be placing the trailer and make sure you pick a trailer length that can fit into that storage space.

Ready to shop trailers for sale in Iowa? Check out the selection at Camp Site RV. Let our experts help you find the best match for your budget and lifestyle. Our dealership is based in Cresco, Iowa. We proudly serve those in Cedar Falls, Iowa, as well as La Crosse, Wisconsin, and Rochester, Minnesota.