---
title: "FAQ"
post_type: "page"
slug: "faq"
canonical_url: "https://americantraileraz.com/faq/"
last_modified: "2025-11-26T17:26:37+00:00"
status: "publish"
---

## Overview

## General Trailer FAQs

#### What types of trailers are available at American Trailer Company?

American Trailer Company offers a wide variety, including:

- **Roll‑Off Trailers** - For waste and jobsite cleanup, available in multiple sizes.
- **Car Haulers** - Bumper-pull and gooseneck options for vehicles, equipment, and buggies.
- **Dump Trailers** - Hydraulic dumps perfect for soil, gravel, landscaping debris, with GVWRs up to ~14,900 lb.
- **Enclosed/Cargo Trailers** - Secure, weather-tight options in lengths from 6′-12′ and GVWRs ~5,000-7,000 lb.
- **Equipment Trailers** - Heavy‑duty gooseneck and bumper-pull models with GVWRs up to ~25,000 lb.
- **Deckover & Tilt Trailers** - Easy loading deck-ons and split/hydraulic tilts, up to ~20,000-22,000 lb GVWR.
- **Utility Trailers** - Smaller general-use trailers with GVWRs ranging from ~3,000-6,000 lb.
- **Gooseneck Trailers** - For heavy or long-haul loads offering enhanced stability.
- **Stock/Livestock Trailers** - For safe transport of animals.
- **Pre‑Owned Trailers** - A rotating selection of lightly used models across all categories

#### How do I determine the right trailer size?

Consider factors like payload weight, tow vehicle capacity, cargo dimensions, and how often & where you'll store or maneuver it. American Trailer Company's knowledgeable team is available to assist with sizing and matching the best trailer to your needs American Trailer Company American Trailer Company.

#### Bumper-Pull vs. Gooseneck Trailers

- **Bumper-Pull:** Easier hookup, more budget-friendly, ideal for lighter loads.
- **Gooseneck:** Superior stability, better for heavy or long-haul applications, with GVWRs reaching into the mid‑20,000 lb range American Trailer Company American Trailer Company.

#### Do I need a special license to tow a trailer?

- **Personal use under 26,000****lb GVWR:** No special license required.
- **Above 26,000****lb GVWR or commercial use:** CDL or DOT number likely required-check state and federal regulations.

#### What's the typical trailer warranty?

While exact warranties vary by brand, typical coverage includes:

- **3-5 years** on frame
- **1-2 years** on components
- **1 year** on electrical/paint American Trailer offers in-house warranty support and repair services

#### Do you offer financing?

##### Do you offer financing?

Yes-American Trailer provides flexible financing through trusted third-party lenders. They also accept credit cards. Visit in-person or call to apply for the best rates.

#### Weight capacities by trailer type:

- **Enclosed/Cargo:** up to ~7,000 lb GVWR
- **Deckover/Equipment:** ~15,000-25,000 lb GVWR
- **Dump:** up to ~14,900 lb GVWR
- **Tilt/Split‑Tilt:** ~14,000-20,000 lb GVWR
- **Utility:** ~3,000-6,000 lb GVWR
- **Car Hauler:** ~9,000-10,000 lb GVWR
- **Gooseneck:** similar to equipment trailers
- **Stock/Livestock & Roll-Off:** varies-please inquire

#### Required maintenance

- **Pre-use:** Check tires, brakes, lights, hitch
- **Monthly:** Grease bearings; inspect bolts & tie-downs
- **Annually:** Full inspection of bearings, brakes, electrical systems, and structure

#### Storage tips

Store in a covered, elevated area, clean regularly, grease moving parts, and disconnect batteries to maintain longevity.

#### Used trailer inspection tips

Inspect for structural/frame integrity, axle wear, tire condition, electrical wiring issues, and brake system performance. Avoid units with corrosion or hidden damage.

#### Can trailers be customized?

Yes-custom orders are available. Their service shop and team can install accessories or upfits. Special-order trailers are welcomed.

[Contact Us Now](https://americantraileraz.com/contact-us/)

## Purchase & Rental FAQs

#### New and Used Trailers

They offer both new and pre‑owned trailers. Used models undergo thorough inspection alongside third-party brand checks.

#### Rental Options

Limited rental options may be available-contact them directly to discuss current stock, terms, and delivery/pickup.

#### Rental Process

- Consultation & trailer selection
- Documentation (ID, insurance proof)
- Trailer walk-through
- Pickup or delivery
- Return inspection

#### Minimum Rental Periods

Typically a one-day minimum, with weekly/monthly rates for extended use-ideal for commercial or construction applications.

#### Required Documents

- **Purchases:** Valid driver's license, proof of insurance, payment details
- **Rentals:** Driver's license, insurance documentation, credit card, and possibly business licensing for commercial use.

#### Trailer Delivery

They offer **free delivery within 100 miles** of Bedford, PA, and can arrange delivery to Arizona location as needed.

#### Return Policy

- **New trailers:** Handled case-by-case
- **Rentals:** Must be returned in original delivered condition; damage assessed upon return

#### Trade-ins

Accepted based on age, condition, and demand-call ahead to discuss appraisal and pricing options.

#### Rent vs. Buy Cost Analysis

If you use a trailer more than 3-4 months a year, buying is typically more cost-effective. For occasional use, rentals may make more sense.

#### Service and Repairs

American Trailer Company operates a full-service shop and mobile service unit for maintenance, upgrades, and repairs on all brands.

[Contact Us Now](https://americantraileraz.com/contact-us/)

## Trailer Type-Specific FAQs

#### Equipment Trailers

- **Payload:** ~14,000-25,000 lb GVWR
- **Options:** Removable or fold-down ramps, D-rings, stake pockets, winches

#### Dump Trailers

- **GVWR:** 9,900-14,900 lb (e.g., Diamond C)
- **Beds:** 12′-16′, hydraulic dumping, perfect for soil/debris

#### Car Hauler Trailers

- **Payload:** ~9,890 lb GVWR
- **Sizes:** 20′+; may include ramps or tilting decks for loading ease

#### Enclosed Trailers

- **GVWR:** ~5,000-7,000 lb
- **Sizes:** 6′ to 12′ flat-top cargo designs American Trailer CompanyAmerican Trailer Company

#### Utility Trailers

- **GVWR:** ~2,990-6,000 lb
- **Sizes:** Commonly 10′ to 14′ open-deck landscape utility trailers

#### Tilt & Deckover Trailers

- **GVWR:** ~9,900-20,000 lb
- **Sizes:** 20′-30′ deckovers, split-tilt features available

#### Gooseneck Trailers

- **GVWR:** 14,900-25,000 lb
- **Types:** Equipment and dump gooseneck trailers for heavy-duty hauling

#### Roll‑Off & Stock Trailers

Offered across various sizes-best to inquire about availability and specs.

[View Full Inventory](https://americantraileraz.com/inventory/)

## Brand-Specific FAQs

#### They stock top brands known for quality and value:

**Diamond C, PJ Trailers, Look, Horizon, Quality Trailers**, plus hitch and accessory lines like **Bulletproof Hitches, B&W, Car Mate, H&H** .

[View Full Inventory](https://americantraileraz.com/inventory/)

## Technical & Regulatory FAQs

#### DOT Requirements

- Personal towing under 26,000 lb GVWR: no special DOT/CDL required.
- Commercial use or trailers over 26,000 lb GVWR: DOT number and CDL likely required.

#### DMV Registration

Requires trailer title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and fees upon purchase.

#### Commercial Insurance

Commercial or high-GVWR trailers must typically carry insurance-discuss with your provider.

#### Weight Restrictions

Federal payload limits: ~20,000 lb (single axle), ~34,000 lb (tandem axle). Always check state compliance.

#### Hitch Types

They support ball hitches (Class I-V), gooseneck, and pintle hitches depending on trailer specs.

#### Cargo Securement

Use multiple tie-downs and follow DOT cargo securement guidelines to ensure safe transport.

#### Lighting & Brake Connections

- **Lighting:** Tail/brake lights, turn signals, side markers, reflectors, license plate illumination
- **Brakes:** Electric with controller, hydraulic surge, or air depending on trailer GVWR

#### Trailer Inspections

- **Pre‑trip:** Tires, lights, hitch, cargo securement
- **Periodic:** Bearings, brakes, frame integrity, wiring/electrical

#### Winterization Tips

Clean thoroughly, lubricate pivot points, store covered, drain water systems, and maintain battery charge.

[Contact Us Now](https://americantraileraz.com/contact-us/)