If you have decided to buy a storage trailer, you most likely have long-term storage needs that require a dependable solution. Investing in a storage trailer is a great choice for safeguarding large, cumbersome objects with maximum net cargo space. However, storage trailers come in different sizes and are made from different materials. It is important to consider all of your specific needs, including the inventory you plan to store and the locations in which you plan to keep your trailer, before purchasing a trailer. Read on for some factors to consider before purchasing a storage trailer.

What is a Storage Trailer?

A storage trailer is an accessible loading dock with either a roll- or swing-style door. They are more suitable than storage containers if you anticipate needing to travel your storage unit between locations, require accessible loading and unloading, or if you have bulky inventory. They are watertight and usually made from strong, durable steel and/or aluminum. Storage trailers are lockable, allowing for maximum security.

Important Factors

Materials and Thickness

As with anything, the better quality the materials, the better quality the product. Trailers made with thick, rigid materials will hold up better against weather conditions, pests, and other hazards. When choosing to invest in purchasing a trailer, you will, of course, want to ensure that your trailer will be able to survive the elements over a long period of time. High quality materials are an important element of a reliable storage trailer.

• Roofing – Roofing material is an especially important consideration if you are looking to keep your storage trailer in an area that is exposed to weather events. Rain can wreak havoc on most types of stored inventory. A roof that is not made from high-quality material will allow water to leak in, which will result in serious damage and rust.
• Interiors and floors – Sturdy storage trailers will be constructed with high-quality materials both inside and out. You might be more focused on the exterior while exploring your options, but it is critical to thoroughly examine the interior as well. Trailers with cheap, flimsy interiors are more likely to be poorly constructed overall. Some trailers are even painted and sealed inside, which suggests a higher quality unit.

Wall Stud Spacing

A sign of a well-built trailer is a strong structure with wall studs that have been spaced for optimal sturdiness. Studs that are 16 inches and 24 inches apart are most common. Trailers with wall studs that are 16 inches on the center are the strongest. You will want to ask a storage professional about the spacing of the wall studs. The more studs, the stronger the trailer. Trailers with weak side wall structure usually flex in and out while being hauled.

Header Caps

Most storage trailers come with header caps that are made either of plastic or fiberglass. Both are good options, but if you need caps that will hold up well against the elements, you may want a trailer with fiberglass. Plastic header caps are the budget option but will still work efficiently, especially if you anticipate mostly needing your trailer in indoor spaces.

Axles

If you are looking to buy a storage trailer, you will want one that has quality, strong axles. Axles do a large amount of the work within the trailer, and if they break, it can lead to a multitude of other problems, including tire blowouts or overheated bearings. Top-rated axles are less likely to break and replacement parts will be more readily available.

Paint and Sealing

The condition and quality of the exterior paint on your storage trailer is much more important than it may seem. A good paint job indicates a unit that can withstand the elements. Primer and paint can work to protect the trailer from water, which is one of the biggest hazards to stored inventory of all kinds. Wrap-around aluminum roofing is perhaps the best protection for a storage trailer. However, waterproof paint and primer can make a huge difference when it comes to protecting storage. Make sure to ask your storage trailer vendor about the water and corrosion resistance of the storage trailer you are considering.

Other Considerations

• Type of stored materials – When choosing a storage trailer to purchase, it is important to consider the type of materials you want to store. Trailers are an especially good choice if you have bulky items due to the wider door space they provide. If you will need a storage unit that can easily be moved between locations if necessary and/or need to be able to connect with a receiving door, a storage trailer is most likely your most suitable option. For example, if you are looking for added inventory space, you can park the trailer at your dock and avoid the need for a forklift. Storage trailers are a popular choice for retail organizations in need of some extra space for organization.
• Roll or swing doors – Swing doors are designed to maximize net cargo space. If you are looking for the largest opening possible for your trailer, swing doors may be the best choice for you. They are available in a variety of sizes and materials. Alternatively, roll-style doors offer a slightly reduced opening space. However, they are better for frequent loading and unloading, and provide easy access to stored goods. Roll-up doors operate while the storage trailed is securely parked at a loading dock. They are easy to open and close and allow for an expanded array of security features. Roll-style doors are easy to paint and customize.

Contact Us for the Best Indianapolis Storage Trailers

If you are looking to buy a storage trailer in Indiana, call Storage On-Site at 317-358-0380 today. You can also fill out our quick form and we will reach out to you as soon as possible.