Should You Buy a New or Used Trailer?
Dec 12, 2013Last Updated on February 12, 2025 by Eric Miller
Last Updated on February 12, 2025 by allprotrailersuperstore
How can you get a great deal on a trailer that meets your needs? Because buying a trailer is a major investment, it can be challenging to sift through your options and make a confident decision.
While some owners recommend buying used trailers, others suggest buying new ones. The best option depends on your needs, budget and personal priorities. Let’s explore the differences between new and used trailers.
Table of Contents
What to Consider Before Choosing a New or Used Trailer
Both new and used trailers can offer great performance. However, a new model is best for reliability and convenience. If you need to save money upfront, consider purchasing a used trailer. You can find a used option that’s in great shape with careful selection.
Whether you buy new or used options, you should complete your purchase through a dealer. Dealers offer financing options and support for the title and registration process. You can also get customization and trade-in options, which can help you save on costs and get exactly what you want.
Types of Trailers
Not every trailer has the same strengths and weaknesses. The right model depends primarily on what you intend to do with it. Here are several kinds to consider:
- Utility trailers
- Enclosed trailers
- Dump trailers
- Tilt trailers
- Motorcycle trailers
- Gooseneck trailers
- Custom trailers
If you’re looking for a custom solution, buying a new trailer is probably the only way to find one with your specifications. On the flip side, you can find many types of trailers second-hand that can help you reach your goals.
New vs. Used Trailers
If both new and used trailers seem like good options for reaching your goals, compare their pros and cons. Here are some things to consider so you can narrow your search:
- Budget: A new trailer will cost more than a used one. However, new options aren’t necessarily expensive — you can find great prices on new enclosed trailers and utility models. Have a figure in mind and know your limits before comparing prices between new and used inventory.
- Financing requirements: In most cases, you’ll need financing to get a trailer. If you trade in an old trailer, its value can help reduce the final price for your new model.
- Modern technology: Are you looking for the latest and most sustainable trailer? A new option will have the most up-to-date technology. However, many used models offer excellent performance and durability.
- Warranty: A new trailer will offer a longer warranty with more protection options than a used trailer. Most used trailers don’t offer warranties at all.
If modern upgrades and a warranty are important to you, a new trailer is a better choice. However, used trailers are often more affordable, getting you on the road with less of a payout. There is no right answer — weigh these pros and cons to determine what matters most to you.
Pros and Cons of New Trailers
New trailers come straight from the dealership or manufacturer, who will typically offer extra perks like an included warranty and financing options. They cost a bit more upfront, but the lack of wear could help you avoid maintenance and repair costs in the future.
Advantages of Buying a New Trailer
Although the cost might be higher, the advantages of buying a new trailer are significant. They include the following:
- A clean history with no existing damage or wear and tear
- An included manufacturer’s warranty
- Modern features and components
- Possible discounts or deals
When you purchase a brand-new trailer, you’ll know it’s never been damaged through wear and tear. There won’t be any rust hidden underneath, and you’ll have a warranty to fall back on if you experience problems after your purchase.
Disadvantages of Buying a New Trailer
Newer trailers typically have a higher initial price point than their used counterparts. However, there are several other disadvantages, such as fast depreciation or the possibility of waiting if you request a custom model.
Once you purchase a new trailer, it’s considered pre-owned, and its value depreciates. If you resell or trade it in, your trailer won’t be worth as much as you paid. Still, if a new trailer is within your budget, many buyers find that purchasing new is well worth the benefits.
Pros and Cons of Used Trailers
Now, let’s look at the specific disadvantages and benefits of a used trailer. While used options may need extra attention for maintenance and repairs, they’re typically less expensive than new models. If you have a small budget, an inexpensive trailer allows you to get the equipment you require quickly.
Advantages of Buying a Used Trailer
Perhaps the biggest benefit of buying a used trailer is the cost savings, as you’ll see monetary benefits on multiple fronts. Here’s what you can expect when buying used:
- A lower upfront cost
- Immediate availability
- Possibility of customizations performed by the previous owner
- Less depreciation over time
Though the lower price is the biggest plus of buying your trailer used, it’s a considerable one, especially if you’re on a tight budget. If you buy from a reliable reseller that inspects and services their products, you can take advantage of this benefit with minimal risk.
Disadvantages of Buying a Used Trailer
To realize those cost savings, you’ll need to be okay with the following disadvantages of buying used trailers:
- Older models with more wear and tear and fewer modern features
- A potentially unknown history
- No warranties, as many manufacturer coverage plans can’t be transferred
- A complicated and risky process when buying from a private seller
To mitigate these risks, always buy a used trailer from a dealer. While you’ll still have to contend with wear and tear and a lack of a warranty, you’ll know a professional has inspected the trailer. You can also feel good knowing the dealership is legitimate and has all the required documentation.
Shop New and Used Trailers at All Pro Trailer Superstore
Still unsure whether new or used trailers are your best option? Visit All Pro Trailer Superstore, where a knowledgeable staff member can help you find the right choice. We receive new and used trailers constantly and offer a large and diverse selection for customers to browse.
All Pro Trailer Superstore is your source for all things trailers — in addition to new and used options, you can find professional services, including repair, trade-ins, customization and delivery.
We serve customers across the United States and abroad. Explore our new trailers or our used trailer selection to get a head start, or contact us today if you have more questions!
