Some trailers are so light, the brakes on your tow vehicle – pickup truck or SUV – are all you need to safely slow and stop the trailer and its full cargo. 

But larger, heavier trailers, and those designed for hauling heftier cargo, need a little more stopping power. That’s where trailer brakes become important. 

What’s the Law? 

For safety’s sake, laws have been passed regulating trailer brakes across the United States. Laws vary by state, so be sure to check all applicable local laws and ordinances. 

In at least 35 states, brakes are required for all trailers that weigh 3,000 lbs. or more, but the remaining states vary in their requirements. For example, in New Hampshire, California, Oregon, Idaho and Nevada, the limit is just 1,500 lbs. – but in Alaska, it’s a whopping 10,000 lbs. And in Missouri, you’ll only need brakes on your trailer if it’s a fifth wheel setup. The key? Check your local laws and talk to your local dealer for guidance.  

Wherever you live, and wherever you’re hauling cargo in an ALCOM aluminum trailer, it’s good to know how trailer brakes work and why you might want them on the trailer you purchase. Let’s take a look. 

Air Brakes

Brake systems are conveniently named after their power source. Air brake systems use air to transmit pressure from the driver's control to the trailer's service brakes. Compressed air is stored in chambers, and when you apply the service brakes by pressing the brake pedal, the compressed air system engages the brake to slow your vehicle and trailer. A return spring sends the compressed air out and disengages the brake when you release the pedal. Air brakes can't run out of operating fluid, and therefore aren't as vulnerable to minor leaks as hydraulic brake systems. Larger, heavier vehicles and trailers are more likely to have air brakes than smaller, lighter ones. 

Hydraulic Brakes

Powered by hydraulic fluid, hydraulic brakes are frequently used on lighter vehicles and trailers. Instead of compressed air in a reservoir, a hydraulic system relies on brake fluid, which is forced through the brake lines when the service brake is activated. The brakes, whether disc or drum type, are powered by the hydraulic fluid, and they work to engage the brake pads or shoes that slow the vehicle and trailer.  

Electric Brakes

Electric brakes are a great option for lighter, smaller trailers like landscape or utility models. Electrical wires connect the trailer and tow vehicle so that the trailer’s lights and brakes can operate. When the connection is active, and the service brake of the tow vehicle is engaged, the trailer brakes are activated. Using magnets and specially designed brake shoes, the electric brake safely slows the trailer.

Accelerate Your Search

Don’t hit the brakes on your trailer search until you’ve learned more about all the options ALCOM offers! From brakes, to ramp options, security upgrades, and lights galore in all types of trailers, ALCOM builds a trailer for every need. 

We proudly manufacture our all aluminum, all welded trailers at six manufacturing sites across the continental USA. Our local dealer network of more than 500 dealers is ready to help you find the right trailer to get your stuff where it needs to go. Learn more when you visit our brand sites or reach out to your local ALCOM dealer today! Let’s find YOUR ideal aluminum trailer.