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Blog - Trailer World
Choosing Between Single Axle vs Tandem Axle Trailer
Knowing the differences between these two types can help determine which is the better choice for you. There are a lot of reasons one style may be suited for certain situations than the other, so let’s take a closer look at each one.
High Sider Single Axle Trailer
Single axle trailers are available as High Siders Trailers (above) or as Heavy Duty Handyman Trailers (below)are by far the most popular and common of the two types and are more often than not the ideal trailer for most uses.
Heavy Duty Handyman single axle trailer
But what is a single axle trailer? A single axle trailer has one axle with a wheel on each end. Single axle trailers are typically smaller and have a lower GVM(gross vehicle mass). Because of their size, single-axle trailers are easier to maneuver in tight spaces and around buildings with limited room and sharp corners.
The high sider usually has double the volume of the heavy duty handyman.
A single axle trailer is used for lighter loads and usually doesn’t come with any brakes making it the most affordable and lightweight trailer of the two.
Streamlined Solution
The simple design of the single axle trailer makes upkeep less expensive and they are also more fuel efficient. The design makes it easy to maneuver and steer, and is especially beneficial when stopping. Hauling a trailer with a single axle means less weight to manage and fewer components to maintain.The downside to this option is that because there is only one set of wheels holding the unit it adds more stress to the tyres and you may not get good stability over bumps on the road. Also, depending on the size of the overall trailer, there may be load capacity limits which impact how much equipment or material you can transport.
Uses For Single Axle Trailers
Single axle trailers are best used for smaller loads or lightweight materials. They’re ideal for hauling things like:- • Appliances
- • Furniture
- • ATV
- • Motorcycles
- • Building materials
- • Small tractors
- • Farming equipment
- • Bark, mulch and plants
It’s important to be aware of the trailer’s weight limit and size when you buy a single axle trailer. If you know what type of equipment or material you want to haul, be sure to look for a unit that can support its weight. Single axle trailers can still get the job done despite their size and limitations.
High Sider Tandem axle
Tandem Axle Trailer
Dual axle or tandem axle trailers have a whole lot more advantages particularly when it comes to size and loading capacity. As you would expect, more axles and more wheels means bigger and heavier loads.
Tandem axle trailers come with two sets of wheels with the second axle positioned directly behind the first, and both axles have wheels on each end. With four tyres holding up the unit instead of two, a dual-axle trailer can evenly disperse the weight of the load which makes these trailers more stable when it comes to loading, unloading, and travel.
Braked tandem axle trailers carry higher load capacity with added stopping power the tandem axle trailer gives you more room to haul massive loads and can withstand long distance towing. Although it is more expensive than a single axle trailer, they deliver a higher return on investment in the long run
Tandem axle trailers come with two sets of wheels with the second axle positioned directly behind the first, and both axles have wheels on each end. With four tyres holding up the unit instead of two, a dual-axle trailer can evenly disperse the weight of the load which makes these trailers more stable when it comes to loading, unloading, and travel.
Braked tandem axle trailers carry higher load capacity with added stopping power the tandem axle trailer gives you more room to haul massive loads and can withstand long distance towing. Although it is more expensive than a single axle trailer, they deliver a higher return on investment in the long run
Premium Commercial Braked Tandem
Stability & Safety
A tandem trailer may be the best option for you and your business if you need to transport heavy loads over a long distance. Tandem axle trailers offer extra stability with their rocker slipper suspension system making going over bumps a lot easier. You can even improve the safety of your load trailer by adding bars or a cage. Correct loading of your trailer is critical to safely towing on any road.
In most cases, tandem axle trailers have braking systems independent of the trailer. The braking system could either be electric or hydraulic depending on the trailer brand. Having brakes makes towing heavy items much safer and allows a better stopping distance.
The disadvantage of a tandem axle trailer is that because of its bigger weight and size it costs more than the single axle trailer. It can be more difficult to manoeuvre in tight spaces and has a limited turning radius with four wheels. Also with the size and weight of the trailer, this will also increase your fuel consumption and potential maintenance cost with its more complex design.
In most cases, tandem axle trailers have braking systems independent of the trailer. The braking system could either be electric or hydraulic depending on the trailer brand. Having brakes makes towing heavy items much safer and allows a better stopping distance.
The disadvantage of a tandem axle trailer is that because of its bigger weight and size it costs more than the single axle trailer. It can be more difficult to manoeuvre in tight spaces and has a limited turning radius with four wheels. Also with the size and weight of the trailer, this will also increase your fuel consumption and potential maintenance cost with its more complex design.
Uses for Tandem Axle Trailer
Tandem axle trailers can carry many (if not more) of the same items as a single axle trailer. With a tandem axle trailer you can haul larger ATVs and larger appliances. More uses for a tandem trailer are:
- • Heavy equipment
- • Generators
- • Heavy industry machinery
- • Heavy farming equipment
- • Bulk items
- • Vehicles
- • Machinery
- • Livestock
The heavier the items you need to haul, the bigger your trailer needs to be. Make sure you’re aware of the trailer’s maximum weight and load capacity before you buy a tandem axle trailer.
So Which is The Best?
There are plenty of considerations to make when it comes to getting yourself a new trailer, with the axle being only one part of this decision. Nevertheless, it is an important factor that will affect the towing experience and the overall completion of the job. Both a single and tandem axle trailer can transport a wide range of items within their weight limits as efficiently as the unit allows.
If you find yourself in a tough situation where you have to choose between a single or tandem axle trailer, consider getting help or advice from the trailer experts at Trailer World. Our team will partner with you to discuss your needs on the job and narrow down the best trailer option for you. If we can’t find the right one, we would be happy to build a custom trailer for you that fully aligns with your trailer needs. In addition, we also offer trailer repairs, trailer maintenance and spare trailer accessories as well as other trailer services that you may need. Contact us today and talk to our trailer experts.