Practical Advice for Parking and Storing Trailers

Practical Advice for Parking and Storing TrailersYou probably know that there are parking laws regarding where you park your vehicle, but you may not be aware that a trailer, whether it's used for personal or business purposes, is considered a commercial vehicle and is also subject to parking laws. Restrictions vary widely among cities, so the best way to ensure you are following the law is to check with specific localities. In general, this is what you can expect about parking your trailer.

Where Can You Park Trailers?

As long as you don't park a trailer in your front yard, you can store it anywhere on your property. Your backyard makes a great place to store a trailer, and you can also park it alongside the side of your house. Rented a storage space or keeping the trailer in an outbuilding on your property when not in use are also good options. Some cities even allow you to store trailers on your driveway, but make sure you aren't violating any rules set forth by your homeowner's association if you choose this route.If you're traveling with a trailer, the same rules apply on any private property. You can park your trailer on public streets for up to 24 hours at a time, so you can park without fear of fines for short durations while traveling to different cities or states.

Where Should You Not Park Trailers?

Most cities prohibit you from parking a trailer in your front yard or blocking a neighbor's driveway if you park on the street. You must have express permission to park on private property for long periods of time. If you park in an alley or on a public street, you must move the trailer within 24 hours if you don't want to incur a fine. Your trailer may be towed if it is left on public property for more than 48 hours. Some cities have additional restrictions for parking, so make sure you check local regulations to avoid racking up fines by parking illegally.

Where Can You Store Trailers?

When you don't use a trailer frequently, you must store it properly if you want to keep it in good condition. Most cities don't allow you to park trailers in your driveway for extended periods of time, and even if they do, they aren't protected from the elements. If you aren't planning to use your trailer for a few months, it's best to store the vehicle in an enclosed space such as a garage or rented storage facility. It is important with seasonal temperature changes that you put a wood plank or board under the tire so the ground temperature doesn’t affect it. You should also:
  • Invest in a waterproof trailer cover to protect the vehicle from moisture and dust
  • Buy a security system to prevent theft
  • Jack up the front of the trailer to preserve tires and prevent water pooling on the roof
  • Remove brake batteries to extend longevity
  • Grease moving parts to keep them from becoming stiff

Where Can You Find a High-Quality Trailer?

Just like any other vehicle, trailers need maintenance to stay in good condition. If you purchase a trailer that hasn't been properly maintained, your investment probably won't last long. It's best to purchase used trailers from a reputable dealer such as McFarlane Trailer Sales. We have a wide variety of models in stock, including gooseneck and cargo models. All of our trailers are made of durable materials and undergo routine maintenance so you can be sure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Browse Our Selection Today

If you're in the market for a new trailer, McFarlane Trailer Sales has a great inventory of new and used options. Browse our selection of used trailers for sale or contact us today to find the one that best meets your needs.