Finding the right trailer isn’t always easy when there are so many different makes, models, and brands to choose from. Utility and equipment trailers are two of the more common types that you’ll find on worksites or for personal use, so you may wonder: Which type of trailer will work best for my needs?
Below, we’ll break down the key differences between an equipment trailer and a utility trailer. Keep reading to learn where to find the right trailer for your job, haul, and budget from Factory Outlet.
What Is an Equipment Trailer?
Equipment trailers are built to haul heavy machinery and are commonly used for construction, industrial, and agricultural equipment, as well as other heavy-duty applications.
Most equipment trailers are designed to carry around 10,000 to 25,000 pounds safely. They come outfitted with tilt systems or ramps for easier loading and unloading, and usually feature double or triple axles to accommodate the additional weight of a load.
These trailers are designed to handle a wide variety of heavy-duty loads, and are indispensable for most major industries in Canada that work with or transport this type of cargo.
What Is a Utility Trailer?
A utility trailer is an old standard in the truck and trailer industry, featuring a basic open design that makes it suitable for a wide variety of jobs. The open design also features short sidewalls for additional cargo support, but generally, you can remove these if needed. Common utility trailers feature either single or tandem axles to safely support the load weight.
Utility trailers are great for both personal and commercial use due to their versatile design. Whether you need a hauler to transport an ATV to an off-roading trip, move landscaping equipment to and from a job site, or relocate furniture to your new house, a utility trailer is the everyman of hauling solutions.
Key Differences Between an Equipment vs Utility Trailer
Equipment and utility trailers are both great options for hauling, but which one will work best for your typical cargo size? Here are a few standard specifications* that differentiate these two trailer types:
| Specs | Utility Trailer | Equipment Trailer |
| Frame Strength | Supports a maximum of 7,000 lbs GWVR | Supports a minimum of 10,000 lbs GWVR |
| Axles | Standard single axle | Standard double or triple axle |
| Brake System | Electric brakes | Air brakes or electric-over-hydraulic (EOH) |
| Tires | Special trailer tires | Heavy-duty tires |
| Loading/Unloading Method | Requires detached loading/unloading equipment or assistance | Include ramps, hydraulic lifts, and other loading support |
*Specifications will vary by make and model
Utility trailers are ideal for small to medium loads and for hauling on worksites, and they are a great solution for an at-home hauler, while equipment trailers are designed for companies moving large, specialized equipment.
Some examples where these trailers can be used include:
Utility Trailer:
- Moving furniture and household items to a new location
- Hauling lawnmowers, soil bags, wheelbarrows, and other landscaping materials for yard maintenance
- Moving lumber, scaffolding, power tools, and other supplies on construction sites
Equipment Trailer:
- Transporting heavy farm machinery like tractors, harvesters, and excavators to your property
- Hauling cranes, loaders, and mowers to and from construction sites
- Loading, hauling, and unloading vehicles for cross-country transport
Find the Right Hauler for Your Cargo from Factory Outlet
Whether you need a standard trailer for at-home yardwork or the solution to your next heavy-duty equipment hauling job, you can find what you need from Factory Outlet Trailers. Contact us today to learn more about our line-up of utility trailers, equipment trailers, and more from top brands like Cargo Mate and Southland.