Groovy car accessories

Posted on: 22 December 2022

Flat-top trailers are great for those who need to transport larger or bulkier items, and there are several types from which to choose. Probably the most important decision you'll need to make is whether to go for a double-axle or a single-axle flat-top. Both options come with their own pros and cons, but here are just five reasons why a double-axle flat-top trailer might be the smartest choice.

1. Higher Payload

Probably the most compelling reason to buy a double-axle flat-top trailer is that you'll be able to carry more weight. Since weight will be distributed over two axles and four tyres instead of one axle and two tyres, a double axle is going to boast a higher payload than a single axle of equivalent size. Even if you don't think you'll need that higher payload right away, it's nice knowing you can haul heavier items when you need to.

2. Reduced Wear and Tear

Since single-axle flat-top trailers distribute weight over two wheels rather than four, wear and tear is more likely. As such, your tyres will be more likely to sustain damage, which can mean replacing them more often. Double axles spread weight more evenly, so tyres are likely to last longer.

3. Increased Stability

Having four wheels instead of two also helps a double-axle flat-top trailer remain stable, especially at higher speeds. In contrast, a single axle will be more prone to sway and harder to control, so they aren't recommended if you expect to cover longer distances or uneven terrain. This issue is exacerbated by the fact that many single-axle trailers don't feature suspension systems, while almost all double-axle trailers do.

4. Superior Braking

In many cases, single-axle flat-top trailers will not include brakes at all. In contrast, double-axle trailers will almost always come with independent braking systems. Even when single-axles do have braking systems, they'll only include two brakes to the four brakes found on a double-axle. As such, double-axle trailers are much easier to bring to a stop.

5. More Dependable

You can suffer a flat tyre regardless of the type of trailer you choose. Of course, this will be much more of a problem with a single-axle since you can't keep going when one of two tyres is flat, whereas you often can keep going when one of four wheels is flat. This means you'll be less likely to find yourself stuck in the middle of nowhere when you opt for a double-axle trailer.

For more information on flat-top trailers, contact a company near you.