Skeletal Trailers For Sale in United Kingdom

A skeletal trailer provides the underpinnings for a truck body which can then be adapted to whatever purpose the owner requires, with both fixed and extendable models available used in the UK. Skeletal trailers are usually intended to bear the weight of shipping containers, allowing them to be quickly loaded straight off the ship and then transported to their final destination. However, you can also find skeletal trailers that have been altered to cope with the transport of other more specialised loads, such as steel coils, canisters and other items with irregular shapes. Working out which type of load a trailer can accommodate is the first step to selecting the best second-hand unit to buy.

Fixed skeletal trailers are a sensible choice for organisations that will be handling containers of roughly the same size, shape and weight on a regular basis. They are affordable and, if well maintained, can last for decades. Checking the structural integrity of the trailer frame, looking out for rust and keeping an eye on the other components when buying a second-hand example will be important. Tandem or tri-axle fixed trailers are common, while some models will have optional extras such as safety bumpers and side protection struts which may be desirable.

Sliding Skeletals

Extending skeletal trailers can be more expensive but offer increased versatility and the opportunity to accommodate different-sized loads without any space being wasted. Where slider mechanisms are present to allow for an increase in trailer length, look out for wear and tear that may have occurred during use. Some skeletal trailers will offer enhanced frames which feature hydraulic tipping mechanisms, which makes upending containers filled with loose material much easier. It is merely a matter of assessing whether or not this kind of technology will be a practical benefit or an unnecessary luxury for your particular business.

Steel vs. Air Suspension

Skeletal trailers will feature either steel suspension or air suspension, with the former being a cheaper and less versatile alternative to the smooth performance and adjustability offered by the latter. Drum brakes are effective but basic for speed management on these models, so you may wish to seek out trailers with disc brakes included. Examining the state of the tyres on a used model, as well as things such as the suspension and braking assemblies, will be worthwhile if you want to ensure that no unexpected and expensive repairs are going to be necessary in the future.

Skeletal trailers are deliberately designed to be light and durable, with steel structures ensuring they can shoulder the burden of containers without showing the strain. Trailers of this kind can manage loads of up to 70 tonnes in many cases, although specifications will differ from model to model and you should establish the capabilities of used units early to avoid disappointment. Modern trailers may be safer, sturdier and easier to maintain, but lower upfront costs can be found with quality used skeletal trailers which have seen plenty of work over the years but are still in a good state of repair.