If you are not in the know when it comes to trailers or are not using them on a frequent basis, you might not be aware that there are different models. Knowing the difference between trailers and their various benefits will help you to make an informed choice when it comes time to hiring one from Coastal Hire so you have the right tool for the job.
So what is the difference?
The obvious answer is that a single-axle trailer has – you guessed it – one axle! Double axle trailers, of course, have two axles and are also referred to as tandem or bogey-axle trailers. Single axle trailers have one set of wheels and double axle trailers have two sets of wheels. Single axle trailers are easier to tow and manoeuver in constricted spaces because they have fewer wheels. They are good for smaller loads such as transporting furniture.
Double axle trailers are more heavy-duty and generally larger in size. This makes them more suitable for transporting heavier loads such as landscaping products or firewood. The two axles mean that the load weight is distributed more evenly, leading to greater stability on the road. The larger size of the double axle trailer will, however, mean that it is harder to manoeuver in tight spaces, smaller roads, and driveways.
Do you need a single or double axle trailer?
The type of trailer you need is dependent on the type of load you need to move. At Coastal Hire, our single axle trailer has a maximum load of 500kg, and our double axle trailer has a max load of 1500kg. It’s important to know about the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle as well as how much the trailer can handle, before deciding which one is right for you. Read on to learn more about the specs you should check out first.
What’s the difference between ATM and GTM?
Trailers usually are classified by their Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) and Gross Trailer Mass (GTM). Aggregate Trailer Mass refers to the total combined weight of the trailer itself when fully-loaded at its maximum towing capacity and not hitched to a vehicle. Gross Trailer Mass refers to the weight that the fully-loaded trailer imposes on the trailer’s axle when hitched to a towing vehicle. The ATM and GTM are used to calculate whether your specific vehicle is capable of towing the trailer.
How do I know what my car can tow?
Vehicle manufacturers usually indicate in the owner’s manuals the maximum weight and other features of trailers appropriate for the vehicle. These limits should not be exceeded.
The maximum trailer load will also be outlined in the manual to ensure that the combination of the car and the relevant trailer is safe and controlled during transit and that it will not cause long-term damage to the vehicle’s body and mechanical components.
The maximum towing weight specified by the vehicle manufacturer equates to the trailer’s ATM. However, some vehicle manufacturers specify towing capacity in terms of Gross Trailer Weight, which in fact is referring to the trailer’s Aggregate Trailer Mass.
This information was taken from the Roads and Maritime Services NSW Website. You can read all about trailers and towing capacity as well as the relevant legislation on their site.
How can Coastal Hire help?
Now you know which trailer you want to hire, contact Coastal Hire! We can hire you a single or double axle trailer, depending on what items you need to transport. We can also provide advice on which trailer is right for your load and will be suitable for your car but you’ll also need to know your vehicle’s maximum towing weight as mentioned above.
We don’t just hire box trailers – did you know we also hire plant trailers? Read more about our range of trailers available for hire.
