Before investing in a new trailer, you probably want to learn all you can about the options on the market. For example: what sets an ALCOM aluminum trailer apart from similar steel trailer models produced by our competitors? 

You probably already know about our huge selection of open and enclosed trailers, our wide range of options for every application from car haulers to livestock trailers, and our family of ALCOM trailer brands like Mission, CargoPro / SnoPro, and Frontier. But did you know what makes our trailers really stand out in a crowd? Aluminum is the answer! 

ALCOM is so committed to our lightweight, hard working aluminum trailers that we named the company after them. Aluminum Company of Maine, LLC - that’s ALCOM! We manufacture more than 160 standard trailer models, with something for everyone and customization options galore. 

Let’s dig a little deeper into what sets our all aluminum constructed cargo trailers apart from steel trailers built by the competition.  

Advantages of Aluminum Trailers  

Aluminum is around one-third the weight of steel, with a superior strength-to-weight ratio. In practical terms, that means an aluminum constructed trailer will be significantly lighter than a trailer of the same size built from steel. 

So, what’s the big deal about trailer weight? 

Start with wear and tear. The heavier the trailer, the harder your vehicle works to haul it - including higher gas consumption. A lightweight aluminum trailer means less wear and tear not only on your tow vehicle, but on the trailer itself - the tires and axles have less of a load to support, and over miles and miles of adventure on the open road, that weight savings really adds up. Plus, a lighter trailer also takes less of a toll on your driveway, yard, or wherever you park it. 

Another perk of aluminum trailers is that more vehicles can safely tow them along. No truck? No problem when you choose an ALCOM aluminum trailer, since many of our trailer models are light and nimble enough to tow behind an SUV! 

Speaking of vehicles, did you know that your trailer’s payload is determined in part, and limited by, your tow vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)? The GVWR is the maximum total safe weight of your tow vehicle, including its curb weight when empty, plus the weight of any passengers, cargo and fuel in the vehicle and the “tongue weight” of the tow trailer.  

When you start with a steel trailer, you’ve already eaten up more of your tow vehicle’s GVWR than you will when choosing an ALCOM aluminum trailer. Choosing an aluminum trailer from ALCOM maximizes your trailer’s payload because the trailer itself weighs less in the first place. Aluminum trailers let you get more done, while still saving wear and tear on your vehicle!  

With a lightweight, hard working ALCOM aluminum trailer that’s built to last, maintenance is also a breeze. Aluminum does not rust (although it can corrode if exposed to salt), so you can cross that worry right off your list! Aluminum is long-lasting and will stand up to the elements for the long haul, making it a superior value for your budget. 

Considerations for Aluminum Trailers 

If you’re wondering if an aluminum trailer sounds too good to be true - it’s not! ALCOM’s rugged aluminum trailers are designed to be the lightest, strongest, and longest lasting out there. But there are a few things to consider before you decide if an aluminum trailer is the best fit for you. 

With its lighter weight, aluminum is also more flexible than steel, making your aluminum trailer less rigid than a steel model. An aluminum trailer, and the cargo inside it, may sustain more damage in the event of an accident than with a steel trailer. 

Also consider stability on the road when driving in windy conditions; the lighter weight of an aluminum trailer may not be as stable on the road as a heavy steel trailer. Because steel has less elasticity than aluminum, it can be better suited for the strain of hauling extremely heavy loads.   

Questions About Aluminum Trailers? 

Now that you know some of the advantages aluminum trailers have to offer, like lighter weight, improved fuel consumption, and better payload, what are you waiting for?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your trailer buying journey, check out our industry-leading aluminum trailer brands - like EZ Hauler, High Country, and Stealth today!

With over 150 models of aluminum trailers built right here in the United States, and a huge network of dealers spanning the USA and Canada, ALCOM is ready to help you find YOUR aluminum trailer today!  

Sources:

When to Use Aluminum vs Stainless Steel - Kloeckner Metals 

What is GWVR on a Truck? - J.D. Power