Why Consider a Preowned Trailer?
You’ve been thinking about getting a trailer for your truck or SUV, but aren’t sure if you should go new or used. Buying new has its perks – like that new trailer smell! But don’t dismiss looking at preowned trailers. Used trailers can save you a bundle over new, and still give you years of solid use. In this article, we’ll look at the key benefits of going preowned when trailer shopping. From significant cost savings to avoiding first-year depreciation, you may be surprised at how used can beat new when it comes to trailers. We’ll also cover what to look out for when inspecting a used trailer so you don’t end up with a lemon. Let’s hit the road and explore why preowned trailers deserve serious consideration for your next trailer purchase.
The Benefits of Buying a Used Trailer
Buying used means saving major cash. Preowned trailers depreciate quickly, so you can score a great deal on a unit that’s only a few years old. Trailers are built to last, so with a used model from a reputable brand, you’ll likely get many years of use.
Lower Upfront Costs
With a used trailer, you can get into an upgraded or larger unit for less than if you bought new. The big depreciation hit has already been taken by the first owner. This means you get more trailer for your money.
Save on Insurance and Registration
Since the trailer’s value is lower, your insurance premiums and licensing fees will typically be lower too. Over time, these savings really add up.
Avoid the “New Trailer” Depreciation
The value of a new trailer can drop by up to 20-30% as soon as you drive it off the lot. Choosing used lets the first owner take that big depreciation hit. Your trailer still has plenty of life left, but at a price that’s kind to your budget.
Certified Pre-Owned Options Available
Many reputable dealers thoroughly inspect used trailers and certify the best ones as “certified pre-owned.” These go through multi-point inspections to ensure they meet high standards. CPO trailers usually come with extended warranties for added peace of mind.
So if you’re looking for a great deal on a solid, road-tested trailer, used can be an excellent option. Do some research on makes, models, and price ranges. Check vehicle history reports. And when you find a promising preowned trailer, schedule a thorough in-person inspection. A used trailer in good shape can give you years of happy camping without the huge new price tag.
How to Find the Best Preowned Trailer for You
Buying a used trailer instead of new has some major advantages for your wallet and peace of mind. For starters, used trailers have already taken the biggest depreciation hit, so you can get a lot more for your money. Lower Upfront Cost
A new trailer can lose up to 30% of its value as soon as you drive it off the lot. Choosing used means paying a fraction of the original price for a trailer that still has plenty of life left. You’ll be able to afford a bigger, better equipped model for the same money.
Proven Reliability
Used trailers have a track record, so you know what you’re getting. Check the service records to see if there are any recurring issues or past accidents. If it’s lasted for several years already without major problems, chances are good it’s a dependable rig. Less Stress
With a lower upfront cost, you’ll feel less pressure to use the trailer constantly to get your money’s worth. Take it out when you want without worrying so much about depreciation or financing payments. You can also resell a used trailer more easily if your needs change.
Used trailers simply make sense for many RVers and campers. Let someone else absorb the high initial cost of ownership so you can enjoy the open road with less financial stress and more peace of mind in a proven reliable rig. The freedom of pre-owned—that’s the way to go!
