If you’re in the business of clearing out clutter or you’re just starting your journey in junk removal, selecting the right type of trailer is crucial. We’ll dive into the world of different types of trailers for junk removal that include utility trailers, cargo trailers, and dump trailers.
Each type has its unique features, benefits, and drawbacks, and we’re here to help you understand them all. We’ll cover the pros and cons of each type of trailer, making it easy for you to decide which one is best for you and easily towable with a pickup truck.
Whether you’re hauling old furniture, piles of yard waste, or heavy appliances, there’s a trailer out there that’s perfect for the job. We’ll guide you through your options for the best type of trailer for junk removal. Let’s get started and find the ideal trailer for your junk removal business!
Best Types of Trailers for Junk Removal
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Picking the Best Type of Trailer For Junk Removal
The junk removal industry plays an important role in keeping our communities clean and clutter-free. From property clean outs to large-scale commercial junk disposal, the demand for junk removal services is increasing.
At the heart of this industry are trailers – the tool that makes it all possible. These vehicles are essential for transporting waste and debris safely and efficiently. But not all types of trailers are created equal. Depending on the type of junk removal jobs you handle, one type of trailer might serve your needs better than another:
Open Utility Trailers: This type of trailer is the most versatile for junk removal. Utility trailers are uncovered, easy to load and unload, and offer a flat loading area, making them ideal for hauling large, bulky items or a variety of smaller debris.
Enclosed Cargo Trailers: Cargo trailers have a roof and walls, safeguarding everything inside. They are ideal for transporting and protecting items that you are donating or even recycling, like valuable copper wire.
Dump Trailers: Dump trailers are designed for easy unloading, especially when dealing with heavy materials like construction debris or yard waste. With a hydraulic lift mechanism, these types of trailers can tilt to dump their contents, saving on both time and labor.
Truck or Trailer? Depending on the type of junk removal jobs that you take, a truck might be a better option than a trailer. Keep this in mind when you are starting your junk removal business!
Open Utility Trailers
Utility trailers are a popular type of trailer in the junk removal industry, and for good reason. These types of trailers are like the Swiss Army knives of hauling – versatile and easy to use.
This type of trailer doesn’t have a roof and the sides are short, which means you can load and unload the trailer easily. This is a big plus when you’re dealing with large, awkwardly shaped items like old furniture or appliances.
One of the best things about open utility trailers is the range of sizes they come in. Width ranges from 5 – 8 feet and length-wise, they generally range from 8 – 22 feet. A smaller trailer might be better in dense, urban areas and for smaller jobs, while a larger trailer can carry more junk in one go.
Common Utility Trailer Sizes & Payload Capacity
| Trailer Size | Average Payload Capacity |
| 5′ x 8′ | 1000 – 2500 lbs |
| 7′ x 10′ | 2000 – 3500 lbs |
| 8′ x 12′ | 2500 – 4000 lbs |
| 7′ x 20′ | 4000 – 6000 lbs |
We find that open utility trailers are perfect for a variety of junk removal jobs. They’re great for residential clean outs, like when someone is moving and needs to get rid of old furniture and appliances.
They’re also ideal for yard cleanups. You can easily toss in branches, bags of leaves, and even larger items like old garden furniture. Utility trailers are the most flexible type of trailer. You can carry a wide range of junk, from big, bulky items to piles of smaller debris.
Utility Trailer Tip! You can modify these types of trailers by adding higher sides. This means you can pile up more junk and make fewer trips to the landfill or recycling center.
Enclosed Cargo Trailers
Cargo trailers are great for protecting items that you are hauling. They come with a roof, walls, and a door, usually at the back. This design keeps everything inside safe from rain, wind, and prying eyes. It’s like having a portable storage room that you can tow behind your vehicle.
We find that enclosed cargo trailers are best for hauling items that are being donated or are valuable, like copper or other expensive recycled materials.
Common Cargo Trailer Sizes & Payload Capacity
| Trailer Size | Average Payload Capacity |
| 5′ x 10′ | 2000 – 3000 lbs |
| 6′ x 12′ | 2300 – 4500 lbs |
| 7′ x 14′ | 3000 – 4900 lbs |
| 8.5′ x 20′ | 3800 – 10,000 lbs |
Because they’re enclosed, this type of trailer offers protection and security that open utility trailers can’t, especially if you are leaving the trailer unattended for any amount of time.
Cargo trailers come in a variety of sizes to suit different needs. They range in width from 5 feet to 8.5 feet. As for length, you can usually find them from 10 feet all the way up to 24 feet.
We recommend thinking about what you’ll be hauling most often before choosing a cargo trailer size. If you aren’t focused on any one type of junk removal job, it may be best to opt for a medium-large cargo trailer.
Heavy-Duty Dump Trailers
Dump trailers are the heavy lifters in the world of junk removal. They’re built tough and have a special feature that sets them apart from other types of trailers – a hydraulic lift that raises one end to dump out their contents.
We find that dump trailers are ideal for jobs where you’re dealing with a lot of small items or assorted junk. This includes construction debris, yard waste, or even things like random items from a property clean out.
The biggest advantage of a dump trailer is how much time it saves. Instead of having to unload heavy materials by hand, you just tilt the trailer and let gravity do the work. This speeds up the unloading process and saves you time, and in turn, money.
Common Dump Trailer Sizes & Payload Capacity
| Trailer Size | Average Payload Capacity |
| 4′ x 6′ | 1000 – 3000 lbs |
| 6′ x 10′ | 3000 – 6000 lbs |
| 7′ x 14′ | 8000 – 10,000 lbs |
| 8′ x 16′ | 10,000 – 14,000 lbs |
Dump trailers come in a range of sizes. They can be as narrow as 4 feet and as wide as 8 feet. Length-wise, they vary from 6 feet to a hefty 20 feet. When it comes to choosing the right type of trailer, we recommend considering the scale of the jobs you’ll be taking on.
For smaller, residential projects, a smaller trailer might be more practical. But for larger, commercial-grade jobs, you’ll likely need the extra space that a bigger dump trailer provides.
Choosing the Right Type of Trailer for Junk Removal
Now that we’ve looked at different types of trailers, let’s talk about how to choose the right one for junk removal. There are several factors to consider, and each type of trailer has its pros and cons. Remember, not every trailer is suitable for junk removal.
Factors to Consider
Maneuverability: Think about where you’ll be driving and parking. Smaller trailers are easier to handle, especially in cities and tight spaces.
Towing Vehicle: What kind of vehicle will you use to tow the trailer? Check the GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) to make sure it can handle the weight.
Time Saved: Consider how much time a trailer can save you. For example, dump trailers can be unloaded quickly, saving valuable time.
Amount of Junk: Estimate the volume of junk you’ll typically haul. Larger trailers can handle more, but they’re also harder to maneuver.
Think About Cost! Different types of trailers come at different price points. Balance what you need with what you can afford. The amount you pay for your trailer will directly affect your bottom line.
Pros and Cons
Utility Trailers: These are versatile and easy to load. However, they don’t offer protection for your load.
Cargo Trailers: They protect your load from weather and theft but can be more expensive and heavier to tow.
Dump Trailers: Great for time-saving on heavy loads but can be overkill for smaller, lighter jobs. Dump trailers are also generally more expensive than other types of trailers.
Types of Trailers Not Suitable for Junk Removal
Some trailers aren’t a good fit for junk removal. These include flatbed trailers, refrigerated trailers, drop deck trailers, low boy trailers, conestoga trailers, and curtainside trailers, most of these are commonly used with semi-trucks.
While the above types of trailers are great options for delivering certain products, like food for refrigerated trailers or cars for flatbed trailers, they do not work well for junk removal.
Choosing the right type of trailer for your junk removal business is about balancing the needs of the job with the practicalities of towing and cost. Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll find the perfect trailer for your needs!
Make Extra Money With LoadUp: Most Types of Trailers Accepted!
Have you ever thought about turning your trailer into a money-making machine? Well, here’s some exciting news – with LoadUp you can do just that!
LoadUp is a platform that connects people who need junk removed with independent contractors who can do the job. It’s like a matchmaker for junk removal! If you have one of the types of trailers listed above and are ready to work, LoadUp can help you find jobs in your area.
How to Sign-Up With LoadUp
- Download the App: The first step is to download the LoadUp app. It’s easy and free.
- Sign Up to Be a Loader: Once you have the app, sign up to become a Loader. This is what LoadUp calls its independent contractors.
- Get Access to Jobs: As a Loader, you’ll see a list of available junk removal jobs in your area. These are posted by people who need junk removal.
- Pick the Jobs You Want: One of the great things about LoadUp is that you get to choose the jobs you take. This means you can work on your own schedule and pick jobs that suit your type of trailer and preferences.
- Earn Money: Every job you complete earns you money. It’s an easy way to use your trailer to make a living or just earn some extra cash.
As a partner with LoadUp, you have the freedom of being your own boss. This means you get to take charge of your work schedule and earnings, offering a unique opportunity to grow your business on your terms!
Want To Become A LoadUp Partner? SIGN UP
Streamlining Junk Removal With the Right Type of Trailer
Choosing the right trailer is more than a purchase; it’s about finding the perfect
type of trailer for your business. Whether you’re hauling away old furniture, clearing
construction debris, or protecting precious donations, the right trailer
can make your job
With platforms like LoadUp, your trailer isn’t just a tool – it’s your ticket to earning money. By becoming a Loader, you can turn your junk removal business into a flexible, profitable venture. Work on your schedule, choose the jobs you want, and grow your business your way.
In the world of junk removal, your trailer is your trusty sidekick. It will impact your bottom line. So, take your time, weigh your options, and choose wisely.
Once you’ve got the perfect type of trailer hitched up, why not take it for a spin with LoadUp? Who knows, your next big opportunity might just be a click away! Happy hauling!
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