It’s almost boating season in BC, which means it’s time to start thinking about your boat needs (and dreams!) for 2025. Whether you’re new to boat ownership or a salty old sea dog, Factory Outlet Trailers has everything you need to hit the seas… and lakes, and rivers! One of the most important pieces of gear that you can’t overlook? A dependable, properly sized boat trailer.

Without the right trailer, your boat is landlocked— and in a province like British Columbia, where lakes, rivers, and ocean coastlines are all within reach, you’ll want to be ready to go wherever the water takes you. Let’s break down how to choose the right size of trailer for your boat, what kind of watercraft are most popular in Canada, and why buying a boat trailer from Factory Outlet Trailers is the smartest move for any boater (other than always having a life vest on hand).

Why BC is a Boat Lover’s Best Launching Point for Adventure

British Columbia is one of the best places in Canada to own a boat, thanks to its bountiful and pristine waterways, mild weather, and welcoming nautical community. With over 20,000 lakes and nearly 27,000 km of coastline, there’s no shortage of spaces to explore. Whether you enjoy fishing, wakeboarding, sailing, or just cruising around, BC waters have something for everyone.

That makes boat ownership incredibly popular in this province— and the community is growing. Many newcomers have turned to boating as a way to unplug, relax, enjoy the outdoors, and reconnect with their loved ones. That upward trend also means a higher demand for reliable and affordable boat trailers that can keep up with your adventures. Luckily, we’re here to help!

What are the Most Popular Watercraft in Canadian Waters?

Before you buy your captain’s hat, it’s good to know which boat is right for you, taking your skill level, budget, and needs into account. While you might luck out and find a secondhand boat for sale that comes with a trailer, most new watercraft in BC are sold separately from their trailers.

So, before you buy a boat trailer, it’s vital to understand what kind of boat you’re hauling; your boat type will help you narrow down the right marine trailer size and features you’ll need. A few of the most popular types of boats you’ll see out on the waters of British Columbia include:

• Fishing Boats (like aluminum or deep-V boats): Lightweight and easy to tow.
• Pontoon Boats: Great for groups—usually wider and need dual-axle trailers.
• Speed/Wake Boats: Heavier and require sturdy trailers with good balance and brakes.
• Personal Watercrafts: Think Jet Skis and Sea-Doos—compact and easily trailered.
• Sailboats: These vary widely in size and may need specialty trailers with mast supports.

How to Choose the Right Boat Trailer Size for Your Craft

Factory Outlet Trailers makes finding the right boat trailer easy by size, style, and purpose. Whether you’re after a basic model or need something customized for a specialty boat, our team can help you choose the best match. Picking the right trailer size doesn’t have to be complicated. To get started, you’ll need to know:

1. Boat Length: Your trailer should match your boat’s length—from bow to stern. Trailers are usually listed by boat size (e.g., 16’–18’ or 20’–22’), so choose one that comfortably supports your boat’s full length without too much overhang. At Factory Outlet Trailers, we carry every size of boat trailer, from little 12” skiff loaders all the way up to 32” commercial boat trailers.

2. Boat Weight: Make sure your trailer’s weight rating (also known as a GVWR—Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) can handle the weight of your boat plus the engine, fuel, gear, and accessories. To find this capacity, add the total weight of everything onboard and choose a trailer with a GVWR to handle it safely. Do not overload a trailer, as this can lead to accidents and injuries.

3. Trailer Width: Boat trailers must comply with legal road widths in Canada. Most standard trailers are fine, but if your boat is especially wide, such as a commercial watercraft or custom built pontoon boat, confirm that your trailer meets Transport Canada’s guidelines for road travel.

4. Axles: To determine your axle needs, consider what type of craft you’ll carry and for what distance. Single-axle trailers are perfect for smaller boats and shorter trips, while tandem-axle trailers offer more stability and are ideal for heavier boats and long-distance towing.

5. Bunks and Rollers: Once you reach the dock, one question remains: how are you getting in the water? Bunk trailers are standard, cost-effective, and better for smooth launches, whereas roller trailers are easier to load and unload, especially at shallow, rickety, or steep ramps.

Factory Outlet Trailers serves customers all across Western Canada, including four dealerships in British Columbia. With our expertise and knowledge of Canadian waterways, we’re your top choice for the best boat trailers in British Columbia. You can browse trailers by size and weight capacity anytime right from our website, or give us a call for personalized recommendations.

Make Factory Outlet Trailers Your First Stop This Spring to Enjoy the Best of BC Boating

No matter what size trailer you need for your boat, Factory Outlet Trailers can help you find the best base-model boat trailer for your setup or suggest perfect customizations for whatever adventures you’ve got planned. Don’t wait until peak season to get your trailer sorted. Get ready for a summer on the water by visiting our website or contacting our team today, and let Factory Outlet Trailers help you tow your boat safely, easily, and confidently all season long.