Optimizing Storage Solutions to Protect Your Utility Trailer

 Utility Trailer StorageOwning a utility trailer comes with a sense of freedom and convenience. Whether you're using it for work, moving, or recreational activities, it's a valuable investment that requires proper care.When it comes to protecting your utility trailer while stored, having the right storage solutions can make all the difference in maintaining its condition and longevity. Ensuring that you follow the best practices for storing your unit can prevent damage from both weather elements and potential theft.In this article, we will explore utility trailer storage tips that are practical and easy to implement, helping you keep your unit in top shape even during long periods of inactivity. From choosing the right cover to finding the most secure location, we'll cover the best way to store a utility trailer to ensure it remains ready for use whenever you need it.Whether you’re a seasoned trailer owner or new to the world of hauling, these tips will provide valuable insights to help you optimize your storage solutions effectively.

Understanding Ontario's Harsh Weather

Ontario's weather can be quite challenging for utility trailer owners. The cold winters bring heavy snow, ice, and road salt—elements that can cause significant damage if your trailer isn't stored properly. During the summer, the heat can be just as brutal, causing wear and tear on the trailer's exterior and interior. Given these conditions, it's essential to understand the impact of weather on your trailer and take steps to shield it from potential damage.Protecting your trailer from winter's harsh conditions involves more than just parking it in your backyard. Snow accumulation can lead to rust, while road salt can erode the metal parts of your trailer. It's crucial to clean it thoroughly before storing it for the winter. This includes washing away any salt and grime and ensuring it's completely dry to prevent rust.During the summer, high temperatures can cause the tires to deteriorate and the paint to fade. To combat this, it's a good idea to cover your unit with a breathable material that allows moisture to escape while protecting it from the sun's rays. Additionally, checking the tire pressure regularly ensures they remain in good condition, even when not in use.

Protect Your Utility Trailer While Stored

The location where you store your utility trailer plays a significant role in its protection. Ideally, you want to keep it in a place that shields it from the elements while offering easy access when needed. Indoor storage options, such as garages or storage units, provide the most protection against weather conditions. By keeping your trailer indoors, you shield it from snow, rain, and UV rays, extending its lifespan.If indoor storage isn't an option, consider using a carport or a cover designed for outdoor use. These covers protect against UV rays, rain, and snow while allowing for ventilation to prevent mold and mildew. It's essential to choose a cover that fits snugly to ensure maximum protection.Another important factor is the ground on which your trailer is parked. Parking on a paved surface is ideal as it prevents the growth of weeds and reduces the risk of water damage. If a paved surface isn't available, placing your trailer on wooden planks or gravel can help keep it off the ground and reduce moisture buildup.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Even when your trailer is in storage, regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to keep it in top shape. This includes checking for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust, leaks, or tire damage. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from becoming more severe and costly to repair.Lubricating moving parts, such as hinges and locks, ensures they remain functional and don't seize up over time. It's also essential to check the electrical system, including lights and wiring, to ensure everything is in working order. Regularly inspecting the trailer's interior for any signs of mould or pests can save you from unpleasant surprises when you need to use it.Maintaining a log of your inspections and any maintenance performed helps you keep track of your trailer's condition. This record can be invaluable when it comes time for more extensive repairs or if you decide to sell your trailer.Utility trailers with climate control storage options

Climate Control Options

If you have the option to store your trailer in a climate-controlled environment, it can significantly benefit its longevity. Climate-controlled storage maintains a consistent temperature and humidity level, protecting your trailer from extreme weather conditions.In Ontario, where temperatures can vary widely between seasons, climate-controlled storage prevents the expansion and contraction of materials that can lead to damage. It also reduces the risk of rust and corrosion by keeping moisture levels low.While climate-controlled storage may come with a higher cost, the benefits it offers in terms of protecting your trailer and potentially reducing repair costs make it a worthwhile investment.

Winterizing Your Trailer

Preparing your trailer for winter storage involves several steps to ensure it's protected from the cold and snow. Start by giving your trailer a thorough cleaning, both inside and out. Removing dirt, salt, and other debris prevents rust and corrosion during the winter months.Next, check all seals and weather stripping to ensure they're intact and in good condition. Replacing any damaged seals prevents water from entering your trailer and causing damage. It's also a good idea to remove any perishable items or materials that could attract pests.To protect the tires, consider using tire covers or even removing the tires and storing them separately. This prevents flat spots and deterioration caused by prolonged exposure to the cold. If you leave the tires on, make sure to inflate them to the recommended pressure and check them periodically.

Summer Storage Tips

Storing your trailer during the summer presents its own set of challenges. The heat and UV rays can cause damage to both the exterior and interior of your trailer. Using a high-quality cover designed for summer storage protects against the sun's rays while allowing for ventilation.It's also important to ensure your trailer is parked in a shaded area to reduce heat buildup. If shade isn't available, creating a makeshift shelter using tarps or other materials can provide some protection. Regularly checking the trailer for any signs of heat damage, such as fading paint or cracking seals, allows you to address issues before they become more severe.Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial during the summer months, as the heat can cause tires to expand and potentially lead to blowouts. Keeping the tires covered and out of direct sunlight helps prevent damage and prolongs their lifespan.

Why Choose McFarlane Trailers

When it comes to selecting a utility trailer, McFarlane Trailers stands out as the best choice. Our trailers are built with high-quality materials designed to withstand Ontario's harsh weather conditions. We understand the unique needs of trailer owners and offer a range of products and services to meet those needs.Our trailers come equipped with features that make storage and maintenance easier, such as rust-resistant coatings, durable seals, and easy-to-clean surfaces. We also provide expert advice and support to help you get the most out of your trailer.Choosing McFarlane Trailers means investing in a product designed to last. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction sets us apart from the competition, making us the preferred choice for utility trailer owners across Ontario.Contact Us TodayProper storage is crucial to maintaining the longevity and functionality of your utility trailer. By understanding the impact of Ontario's weather, choosing the right storage location, and performing regular maintenance, you can protect your investment and ensure it's ready for use when you need it.At McFarlane Trailers, we're here to help you every step of the way. Our high-quality trailers and expert advice ensure you have the best possible experience as a trailer owner. If you're looking for a reliable utility trailer that can withstand the elements, look no further than McFarlane Trailers.Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn more about our range of utility trailers and find the perfect fit for your needs. Your trailer deserves the best, and so do you.

How Trailers Can Be An Essential Player In Your Farming and Livestock Operations

 How Our Trailers Can Be An Essential Player In Your Farming and Livestock OperationsTrailers are commonly overlooked, yet are instrumental in farming and livestock operations. Today, we uncover the untapped potential of these farming trailers, expanding your perspective on their utility. From the best types suitable for your agricultural needs to features that make them the right choice for diverse tasks, consider this your complete guide. We delve deeper into must-have accessories that promise to enhance your productivity, bringing to light the functionality of trailers in the crux of your operations. Moreover, with a variety of choices available, knowing where to direct your investment can be overwhelming. Fear not, we unwrap why our trailers prove to be the top choice for professionals (like you) in the field of farming and livestock operations. So, buckle up and explore the world of trailers for agriculture with us.

What are the Top Types of Trailers that are Most Beneficial for Farming and Livestock Operations?

As you explore your options for farming trailers, you'll find several types out there, each one uniquely designed to handle a specific part of farming and livestock operations. From transport to feeding and even fieldwork, there's a trailer designed to make the job efficient and effective. Here’s our rundown: 
  • Frontier Livestock Trailers: These are built to safely and comfortably transport your livestock from one place to another. They often come with adjustable interiors to accommodate different types of animals.
  • Utility Trailers: A versatile addition to any farming operation, utility trailers for farming can be used to transport equipment, supplies, and even small farm produce.
  • Flatbed Trailers: These give you the flexibility to transport just about anything. Their open design allows for easy loading and unloading of large and bulky loads.
Selecting the best type for agriculture depends largely on the type of work involved in your farming and livestock operations. Remember, a trailer isn't just a means to transport – it can be a game changer in managing the day-to-day operations on your farm!

What are the Top 10 Benefits of Using a Trailer in Farming?

Now that we've covered what types of trailers are suitable for farming. Here are the top 10 benefits that these versatile tools can provide: 
  1. Efficiency: These trailers greatly reduce the time and effort required to move supplies and livestock, providing major productivity gains. Additionally, by being able to transport large volumes in one go, it substantially lessens the number of trips needed, saving fuel and reducing wear and tear on vehicles.
  2. Convenience: With a robust trailer, transporting goods and animals becomes a straightforward task, no matter the weather or field conditions.
  3. Versatility: Whether it's fertilizers, crops, equipment, or livestock, farming trailers have got it covered. Their adaptability to various tasks makes them indispensable in enhancing the efficiency and productivity of your farming operations.
  4. Cost-Effective: Trailers for farming are a smart investment, offering long-term economic benefits with their durability and multi-functionality.
  5. Safety: A well-built trailer provides safe and secure transport of your valuable cargo, reducing the risk of injury or loss. Moreover, it helps ensure the well-being of your livestock during transit by providing a stable and comfortable environment.
  6. Storage Solution: Use your trailer as additional storage space during the off-season, helping streamline onsite logistics.
  7. Flexibility: Easily attach and detach your trailer from vehicles, making it perfect for flexible and adaptable farming operations.
  8. Durable: Trailers are built to withstand harsh and varying farm conditions ensuring reliability throughout their lifespan.
  9. Ease of Maintenance: With simple construction and readily available parts, trailers are easy to service and maintain.
  10. Tailor-Made: Trailer solutions for agriculture can be customized to meet specific farm needs, guaranteeing you get the most out of your investment.
The extensive benefits of utilizing a trailer in your farming and livestock operations are indisputable. From efficiency and convenience to versatility and durability, these trailers are designed to make your agricultural tasks simpler, safer, and more cost-effective. By now, the advantages should be clear - a quality trailer is, without doubt, an essential player in your farming and livestock operations.

What Specific Features Make a Trailer Suitable for Farming 

For farmers and livestock operators, certain functionalities and features can make a trailer undeniably beneficial. It's imperative to know what to look for when considering a trailer for farming or agriculture. Here we lay out the essential features: 
  • Durable Frame: A well-constructed trailer with a sturdy frame is a crucial factor. Invest in one constructed with high-strength, low-alloy steel to endure heavy loads and resist damage.
  • Ample Weight Capacity: Weight capacity is key when purchasing a trailer for farming purposes. It should be capable of handling your maximum load, including livestock, feed, and farming equipment.
  • Stock-Friendly Interiors: When transporting livestock, the interior of the trailer should have smooth surfaces to prevent injuries. Non-slip flooring can also help keep the animals on their feet during transportation.
  • Easy Hitching and Stability: A trailer suitable for farming should be simple to connect and offer stability while on the move. An adjustable hitch and weight distribution means ensuring your stuff's safety.
  • Pressure-Treated Decking: This feature ensures a long-lasting and rugged surface to endure all types of weather conditions. It's especially beneficial for trailers that will often be parked or used outdoors.
In a nutshell, the perfect trailer for farming and livestock operations has to be durable, maneuverable, and precisely crafted for specific loads and conditions. Looking for these features in farming trailers will not only save you from unnecessary expenses but will also make your operations run more smoothly. 

Which Trailer Accessories are Most Helpful for Farming and Livestock Operations?

Having the perfect trailers for farming is the first step, but equipping it with the right accessories can drastically improve the functionality of the trailer, making your farming and livestock operations even more efficient. Let's consider some of the best accessories. 
  • Tarp System: A rolling tarp system can protect your livestock or produce from harsh weather, ensuring the well-being of your farm's assets during transportation.
  • Ramp/Gate: They are essential for easy loading and unloading. Especially for livestock trailers, a well-constructed gate ensures animal safety while moving them on and off the trailer.
  • Jack: This accessory is a must, providing extra support and making hitching, unhitching, and storing your trailer easier.
  • Lights: Adequate lighting ensures your farming vehicles are visible at all times and helps avoid accidents by illuminating the path during night-time operations.
  • D-Rings: They are essential for secure tie-down spots for loads in your trailer. Your equipment, livestock and agricultural produce remain stable and intact during transit with this accessory.
  • Floor Mats: For livestock trailers, these mats provide comfort for the animals and stability during travel. They also make clean-up easier.
Equip your trailer with these beneficial accessories. They not only boost the utility of your trailers but also safeguard your livestock and farming produce during transit. This investment leads to improved operational efficiency, safety, and ultimately, a healthier bottom line for your farming business.Farming and Livestock Operations

How Do McFarlane Trailers Stand Out as a Leading Solution for Your Agricultural Needs?

When it comes to meeting the various demands of farming and livestock operations, selecting the right trailer is paramount to your overall productivity and efficiency. Numerous reasons make McFarlane trailers a superior option among others for farming. Let's unravel these reasons below: 
  • Versatility: They are adaptable and can cater to a wide range of agricultural needs, offering optimal trailer solutions.
  • Durability: Built to withstand harsh farming conditions, these trailers offer a robust solution to handle any heavy-duty agricultural needs.
  • Superior Design: With progressive design elements, they are crafted to deliver unmatched performance and efficiency in all farming activities.
  • Advanced Features: Equipped with high-grade features such as easy loading capabilities, enhanced safety features, and strong suspension systems, these trailers ensure smooth farming operations.
  • Supplier Support: A trusted dealing partner provides essential support, addressing any concerns and queries to ensure unhindered operations.
It is apparent how these exceptional specifications can streamline farming processes and bolster productivity. Choosing the right trailers can bring significant advancements to your farming tasks, paving the way for efficient and effective livestock operations. If you're aiming for optimal farm productivity, then these trailers warrant your attention. 

Find Livestock and Utility Trailers at McFarlanes 

Your choice of livestock and utility trailers for farming can significantly shape your agriculture practices. With the vast array of features, benefits, and customization options, making an informed decision is essential. Indeed, selecting among the top farming trailers significantly refines your operational efficiency. As a trusted provider of trailer solutions for farming, we understand the importance of providing superior quality, reliability, and performance. At our New Hamburg, Ontario facility, we strive to meet all of your needs with our impeccable service and product range. For those interested in leveraging advanced equipment to enhance their farming and livestock operations, now is the time to take action. Choosing us means investing in a solution that significantly increases your operational efficiency & productivity. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to learn more about how our trailers can play a pivotal role in your daily operations. 

How to Safely Haul Loads on a Trailer

How to Safely Haul Loads on a TrailerSafety should be every cargo hauler's top priority. Knowing your weight limits, having the right security equipment, conducting proper inspections, and using corner protectors will keep your load secure and other motorists safe on the road. A single-axle utility trailer may be your best option for lighter loads. Read more about how to set up your trailer for a safe ride

Know How Much Weight Your Trailer Can Haul 

Every trailer has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This is a combination of the trailer's empty weight and the weight of the cargo. It is usually not possible to measure a load by itself, so you will need to complete some basic math before you load your trailer. Subtract the weight of the empty trailer from the GVWR, and you will have your maximum load capacity. You can also look for the data plate on your trailer. It is usually located near the tongue. Under "axle capacity" you should see a number that lists the weight capacity of your trailer. This corresponds to the diameter of your axle and how much weight it can hold. For example, a 1.5" axle diameter can hold up to 1,000 pounds, whereas a 5" axle diameter can hold up to 10,000 pounds. 

Have the Right Safety Equipment

Straps, ratchets, tie-downs, nets, and blankets all may be required, depending on the load. Plan ahead to make sure you have everything you need before you haul. Protect your safety equipment against excess sun, rain, wind, and road salt to ensure they last as long as possible. 

Ratchet Strap Tie-downs

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration states that you need one ratchet strap for every five feet of cargo length and every 1,000 pounds of cargo weight. You simply cannot overdo it when tying down your cargo. Always err on the side of caution. Inspect each strap for frays and damage. Make sure the ratchets are operating under their breaking strength and working load limit. 

Moving Blankets

Heavy-duty blankets will keep your cargo from jostling and bumping into the sides of the trailer and other pieces in the load. Cargo will inevitably shift, so it's a good proactive strategy to cover valuables to avoid dents, dings, cracks, and scratches. 

Cargo Nets

Install these with bungees on the corners, between large items that may slide or tip while the vehicle is in motion. You can also use these to create safe partitions or barriers between different sections of the trailer.

Install Corner Protectors

As ratchet straps are tightened, they often dig into the sharp corners of a metal trailer, causing cuts and weak points. Corner protectors solve this problem by using tough, durable plastic, rubber, or steel that fits snugly against the sides and edges of your trailer bed. Thread the strap against the guiding gulleys of the corner protector to help your straps last longer.Corner protectors are versatile in length and design. They are relatively inexpensive and come in bulk quantities. Find the size and shape configuration that meets your needs. 

Buy a Single Axle Utility Trailer from McFarlane

We have dozens of utility trailers for sale, whether you're looking for aluminum, steel, used, or new. Many of our trailers come with a three-year warranty. Our brands include Enbeck, Millroad, One Sixteen, and Rescraft. Take advantage of our personalized customizations as well. We can retrofit any trailer to your specs, including: 
  • Custom brake controllers
  • Interior accessorizing 
  • Plug-and-play vehicle wiring
  • Drawbars and trailer hitches
  • Mags and tires 
Give us a call today or visit our website. We treat each trailer like our own and go the extra mile to make sure you are satisfied with your purchase. 

3 Simple Utility Trailer Upgrades You Can Make

Simple Utility Trailer Upgrades You Can MakeA proactive way to get more value and performance out of your tandem axle utility trailer is to customize it with upgrades that add convenience, safety, efficiency, and peace of mind. LED taillights, ramps, and spare tire carriers offer many benefits to your daily workflow and hauling needs. Read more below to consider how to improve your trailer. Then explore our website further to learn about the vetted brands and versatile selection of trailer types we offer. 1. LED TaillightsThe factory-installed safety lights on your single axle utility trailer are usually incandescent bulbs, meaning that they are likely to blow out quickly and need to be replaced fairly often. The filament inside an incandescent bulb is very susceptible to disconnecting due to vibration and the normal bounce and stress of road travel. LED lights last quite a bit longer and are not as prone to breakage. They can usually be spliced into your existing wiring system. Moreover, they are usually encased in plastic or fiberglass, reducing their exposure to elements such as water, airborne debris, and road salt. 2. Ramps Most utility trailers operate perfectly well for hauling raw materials, lumber, soils, and scrap metal from construction sites. One easy customization, however, is to add a ramp kit that allows your utility trailer to become an equipment hauler when necessary. ATVs and small machines can then be hauled without the need for a flatbed or tilt trailer.A simple wooden ramp kit can also allow you to use a wheelbarrow to dump your materials into the trailer, rather than having to lift everything manually or use a shovel. This can be fairly inexpensive and time-efficient customization. Simply install bolted hinges to the edge of your trailer bed, and attach a sturdy wooden or aluminum platform that can be folded up into the bed of the trailer when not in use. 3. Spare Tire Carriers While all residential and commercial vehicles come with a special compartment for stowing spare tires, trailers do not usually have this feature. This results in you having to keep your spare tire in the trailer bed itself, which takes up an awkward amount of space when loading the trailer. It also means that if your trailer is fully loaded and you get a flat, you have to undo all of your hard work to unearth the spare tire, then reload the whole trailer again once the flat is fixed. A spare tire carrier avoids all of this hassle and stress. It can usually be mounted parallel to the rails of your single axle utility trailer, for easy unbolting without having to rearrange any of your cargo. Install it on the outside or inside of the trailer wall. Secure it with a u-lock or other fastener, and you can hit the road with fewer worries.

Buy a Tandem Axle Utility Trailer from McFarlane

The benefit of a tandem axle trailer is that you can take on a lot more weight with a similar level of fuel efficiency when compared to a single axle utility trailer. We have dozens of options to choose from, including small 5 X 10s all the way up to larger 7 X 20s. We stand apart by offering you warranties of one to five years, and following extensive delivery protocols before we hand it over to you, Our other product selections include car trailers, deckover trailers, hydraulic dump trailers, flatbeds, and tilt beds. We offer an extensive catalogue of trailer parts for quick repairs. Contact us today to learn about our financing options and get a custom quote that meets your needs. 

Load a Utility Trailer Like a Pro With These Tips

Load a Utility Trailer Like a Pro With These TipsProfessional movers have a lot of experience loading trailers. Use these tips to load just like a pro. Pros think ahead to consider trailer weight, payload capacity, and the different approaches when loading a single axle utility trailer versus a tandem axle utility trailer

Calculate Your Trailer Weight

Start by measuring the empty weight of the trailer (also known as curb weight). Conventional steel trailers are heavier, while innovative aluminum trailers weigh less. It may be helpful to run a quick search of truck stops or weigh stations within driving distance of your location. Make sure that they are using certified scales so that you know their readings are accurate. Then follow these steps:
  1. Hitch your empty trailer to the vehicle you'll use to tow the trailer.
  2. Haul the trailer to a truck stop or inspection station.
  3. Drive onto the scale.
  4. Record the weight reading.

Identify Your Trailer's Payload Capacity 

Once you get back to your original location, note the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer. This can be found in the owner's manual, product description, or other literature. It may also be found on a sticker affixed to the trailer itself. The GVWR is the maximum legal amount that this trailer can safely weigh, when full. Using what you already determined as the curb weight of the trailer, subtract the curb weight from the overall GVWR. This gives you the amount of cargo payload that the trailer can handle. Keep this number at the forefront of your mind when loading your trailer. If the items you are planning to haul exceed the payload capacity, you'll have to use a different trailer to ensure the safety of all drivers and vehicles on the road, the security of the load itself, and the structural integrity of the trailer. 

Verify Your Tongue Weight

This step is often overlooked, but it is very important. A trailer's tongue should take up approximately 10% - 15% of the total weight once the trailer is loaded. A tongue that is too heavy could make it difficult for your towing vehicle to make turns successfully. A tongue that is too light could cause swaying of the load when the driver takes a curve. The hitch you use should also measure tongue weight. If your GVWR is 10,000 lb, then your tongue should be 1,000 - 1,500 lb. If the hitch does not measure the tongue, you can use a portable scale and place it underneath, rest the tongue on the platform, and record the weight manually. 

How to Load a Single Axle Utility Trailer

Always load the heaviest items toward the front of the axle (nearest to the hitch). The weight distribution within the trailer should be 60% in front of the axle and 40% behind it. An unbalanced trailer can lead to dangerous driving conditions. 
  1. Park on a level surface. 
  2. Chock the wheels. 
  3. Ensure the weight is distributed 60/40.
  4. Load the heaviest items first.
  5. Use straps to tie down large items.
  6. Place lightweight cargo on top. 
  7. Engage your hitch and test your lights. 

How to Load a Tandem Axle Utility Trailer 

Tandem axle trailers can usually hold more weight than a single axle trailer. The process is the same as above, however. If the trailer load is small enough, it may be possible to center what you have between the two axles. Make sure you verify, again, that the tongue weight is 10%-15% of the gross towing weight, for safety and efficiency. Contact McFarlane Trailers at our website to learn about the different types of trailers that can accommodate your next move or haul.