4 Most Common Boat Trailer Types and How to Choose the Right One

Choosing the right boat trailer is a crucial decision for any boat owner. The type of trailer you select can affect everything, from towing stability to launching your vessel in the water.

  Various options are available for boat trailers for sale in the market. Each is designed for specific purposes. Hence, it is essential to understand the different types of boat trailers and how to pick the one that best suits your needs.
Today, we will look into various types of trailers and some valuable tips on choosing the right one for your vessel.

Boat Trailer Types

Here are the common types of trailers you can find at a well-equipped BC boat dealer location.

1. Bunk Trailers

Looking for superior hull support for a flat-bottom or a modified deep-V hull boat? A Bunk trailer can be good. Ideal for small to medium-sized vessels, they have more surface area contact with the hull, distributing the weight evenly and reducing stress points. Most of the Bunk trailers have a fabric cover, which protects the hull from scratches and damage.

Benefits:

• Easy to operate with only a few working components
• Requires minimal maintenance if properly
• The fabric cover allows the boat to slide on & off the trailer easily
• Ideal for vessels with size of 20 feet or lower

Roller Trailers

This trailer type is excellent for easier launching and retrieving of boats. Containing multiple cylindrical pieces of plastic (rollers), it allows the vessel to roll smoothly.

Benefits:

• Don’t need to be submerged in the water like other types of trailers
• Suitable for boats with larger hulls
• It can also be used in shallow water conditions or at low tide

Keel Rollers

It’s not exactly a type of trailer. Keel rollers play a supporting role in the trailer. With a V-shaped design and center position in the trailer, they support the vessel’s keel. This mechanism reduces the risk of damage to the hull and increases the efficiency of loading or unloading the boat.

Benefits:

• Boat launching is easy
• Absorbs the shock while hitching or launching the vessel
• Works well for saltwater and freshwater fishing boats for sale in BC

Float-on Trailers

A simplified loading process, seamless hauling experience, and minimal submersion are some of the factors that make float-on trailers an excellent option to carry and keep your vessel while not riding on the water. As the name suggests, these trailers can be submerged into the water to allow the boat to float off.

Benefits:

• Hassle-free boat launching & retrieval
• Great fit for vessels with outboard motors
• High-weight capacity that suits larger boats

Find the Right Boat Trailer in BC

Options like Marlon trailers and Road Runner trailers suit a range of personal boats, commercial vessels, and recreational boats of different types and sizes.

A few considerations can help you pick up the right option.

Axle Type

One of the primary considerations when selecting a boat trailer is the axle configuration. Single-axle trailers have one set of wheels, while there are double-axle & triple-axle trailers also available. The choice between them depends on the size and weight of your boat. Single-axle trailers are suitable for smaller boats and are generally more maneuverable. They are a cost-effective option and ideal for short-distance towing. On the other hand, multi-axle boat trailers offer better stability, especially for larger vessels. They distribute the weight more evenly, reducing the risk of sway during towing.

Suspension

The suspension system determines how well the trailer can absorb shocks and bumps on the road. Leaf spring suspension is a standard and reliable system that provides a smooth ride. It is durable and well-suited for various vessel sizes. Another option is torsion bar suspension. It provides a better load equalization. It is particularly beneficial for long-distance towing and larger boats.

Material

Companies build trailers using different materials. However, galvanized and aluminum boat trailers are most common in the Canadian boating community. Galvanized trailers are corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for saltwater use. Aluminum trailers are lightweight. Hence, they are easier to tow. Aluminum boat trailers are also corrosion-resistant, but they may require more care & maintenance.

Trailers are as useful for boaters as marine electronics parts like GPS, Sonar, Chartplotter, etc.  To dig deep into how to select the right option and why trailers are essential, read our blog post that details the tips on choosing a boat trailer in BC.

Conclusion

For more information on boat trailers, fishing boats for sale, outboards for sale, boat repair on Vancouver Island, or other boating tips, visit Alberni Power & Marine. We have many options for boats, trailers, and marine services to meet your boating needs. Our experienced professionals will guide you throughout your boat-buying process. Let’s connect today!