Buying an enclosed trailer is a big decision. Whether you need one for work, recreation, hauling equipment, or transporting your side-by-side, choosing the right trailer now can save you money, frustration, and repairs later. With so many options available now, it’s important to know what features matter most and which ones fit the way you plan to use your trailer.
Every single day, our team at DL Trailers helps customers find the right enclosed trailer for their needs. This guide will walk you through the biggest buying decisions so you can shop with confidence and end up with a trailer that works as hard as you do.
1. Exposed Fasteners on the Outside: What Look Do You Want?
One of the first things buyers notice is the exterior finish of the trailer. Some enclosed trailers feature exposed screws or rivets on the outside, while others have a smoother screwless exterior design.
Exposed fasteners are often more budget-friendly and common on many dependable models. A screwless exterior gives a cleaner, more premium appearance that many customers prefer for business branding or a sharper overall look.
There’s no wrong answer here. It comes down to your style preference and budget.
2. Rear Ramp Door Strength: Match It to What You Haul
The rear ramp door is one of the most important parts of an enclosed trailer, especially if you’re loading equipment, motorcycles, ATVs, lawn equipment, or a side-by-side.
Not all ramp doors are built the same. Some are designed for lighter loads, while heavy-duty reinforced ramps are better suited for larger machines and heavier cargo.
Before buying, ask yourself:
- What will I load most often?
- How much does it weigh?
- Will I need traction or upgraded hinges?
- Will I load daily or occasionally?
If you aren’t sure what to choose, our trained experts can help you. Choosing the right ramp door now prevents sagging, damage, and expensive repairs later.
3. What Is the Best Enclosed Trailer for a Side-by-Side?
If you’re hauling a side-by-side, size and strength matter.
Many side-by-sides require:
- Extra trailer width
- Higher interior clearance
- Stronger floor construction
- Heavy-duty ramp doors
- Trailer brakes
- Proper tie-down points
The best enclosed trailer for a side-by-side depends on your machine’s exact dimensions and weight. Too many buyers guess and end up with a trailer that’s too narrow or too light-duty.
At DL Trailers, we help customers match the right trailer to their specific make and model so there are no surprises on pickup day.
4. If You Are Hauling Something, You Need Brakes
Trailer brakes are one of the most overlooked features when buying enclosed trailers, but definitely one of the most important.
If you’re hauling equipment, vehicles, tools, or anything with serious weight, brakes improve:
- Stopping distance
- Safety
- Control
- Reduced wear on your tow vehicle
Even if a trailer can legally be sold without brakes in some cases, that doesn’t always mean it’s the smartest setup. If you’re hauling cargo regularly, brakes should be high on your list.
5. Axle Types: Torsion vs. Spring Axles
One of the most common questions we hear is: Should I choose torsion axles or spring axles?
Torsion Axles
Torsion axles are commonly associated with a smoother, quieter ride. Many customers like them for hauling vehicles, motorcycles, or cargo that benefits from reduced bounce and vibration.
Spring Axles
Spring axles are tried-and-true, durable, and often simpler to maintain.
Important Maintenance Difference
If a spring axle setup needs repairs, you can often replace worn springs individually. If a torsion axle fails or wears out, the entire torsion axle assembly typically needs replacement. That means the better ride quality of torsion can come with higher replacement costs later. The right choice depends on how often you haul, road conditions, and long-term ownership plans.
6. Trailer Flooring: Wood vs. Aluminum
We’re here to tell you that trailer flooring matters more than many buyers realize.
Wood Flooring
Wood floors are common, durable, and cost-effective. They handle many hauling applications well and are easy to repair in sections if damaged.
Aluminum Flooring
Aluminum flooring offers lighter weight and resistance to moisture and rot. It can be a smart choice for customers wanting reduced maintenance and lower trailer weight.
Your best option depends on budget, cargo type, and how often the trailer will be exposed to weather.
7. Walls: Plywood vs. Luan
Interior wall materials can affect durability, appearance, and insulation performance.
Plywood Walls
Plywood walls are stronger and better suited for tougher commercial or heavy-use environments.
Luan Walls
Luan walls are often chosen for a cleaner, more finished appearance. They can also work well when aesthetics matter most.
If you plan to insulate or customize the trailer interior, wall construction is worth discussing before purchase.
Buy the Right Trailer the First Time at DL Trailers
There’s no one-size-fits-all enclosed trailer. The best trailer for you depends on what you haul, how often you use it, and what features matter most to you.
That’s where DL Trailers comes in.
Our trusted team helps customers compare brands, sizes, axle options, flooring, ramp capacities, and more so you leave with the right trailer, not just any old trailer.
If you’re shopping for an enclosed trailer this season, stop by DL Trailers and let us help you find the perfect fit. We make trailer buying easy, honest, and built around your needs.