A poorly matched Trailer costs money, time, and can be risky. So, getting the right one is more important than most people realise. Whether you’re moving an excavator, skid steer, scissor lift, or mower, the right Trailer will make loading safer, towing smoother, and daily work far less stressful.
Here’s what to look for before you buy.
Understand Towing Capacities
Before you begin your search for the perfect Trailer, it’s worth taking a moment to understand the numbers that decide what you can legally tow.
- ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass): The total allowable weight of the Trailer plus its maximum load (allowable payload), when not attached to a vehicle.
- Tare Weight: The weight of the Trailer.
- Allowable Payload: The weight your Trailer can safely carry. It’s simply the ATM minus the Trailer’s tare weight, and confirms whether your machine (attachments included) fits within legal limits.
Here’s the simple version:
Start with your vehicle’s tow capacity, choose a Trailer with an ATM that fits within that limit. From there, then check the Trailer’s allowable payload to confirm it can carry your machine and attachments.
For example, if your vehicle can tow 3,500 kg and the Trailer’s tare weight is 700 kg, an ATM of 3,500 kg gives you an allowable payload of 2,800 kg.
Manufacturers provide these figures, and they’re usually on the vehicle’s compliance plate or in the owner’s manual. When you purchase a SureWeld Trailer you can find these details on the VIN Plate. If in doubt, always check – fines and safety risks simply aren’t worth the guesswork.
Know Your Machine’s Weight and Dimensions
Getting the weight right is essential. Most machine specs list an operating weight, which includes:
- An 80 kg operator
- Fuel
- One or two attachments, depending on the machine type
If you’re unsure, contact the machine manufacturer or dealer to confirm the kerb weight, then add the weight of any attachments you’ll be transporting regularly. Buckets, augers, grabbers, and tilt couplers all add up.
Consider the Weight of Trailer Accessories
It’s not just the machine. The extras matter too.
At SureWeld, customers often add Trailer accessories like:
Each adds weight and takes up space, so include them in your total load calculation. A well-planned Trailer should carry everything you need without pushing your ATM beyond its limit.
Next, look at dimensions:
- Width: Can the machine comfortably fit between the Trailers mudguards?
- Length: Will the machines tracks or wheelbase sit safely on the Trailer deck?
- Wheel centres (for wheeled machines): This ensures correct balance and tie-down placement.
A Trailer that’s too tight will make loading awkward and unsafe, so give yourself a margin.
Mechanical or Electric Brakes – What Works Best?
Both braking systems have their place, and the right choice comes down to how and where you tow.
- Mechanical brakes: Simple, reliable, and don’t require a brake controller inside the vehicle. Perfect for operators who swap between different tow vehicles. SureWeld’s mechanical systems are sourced from Europe, offering superior performance compared to most locally made options, and are by far the most popular choice among our customers.
- Electric brakes: Provide smoother, more responsive braking and adjustable control through an in-car brake controller. Ideal for frequent towing and heavier loads.
If you regularly switch tow vehicles or prefer a low-maintenance setup, mechanical brakes are a great choice. If you tow often and want maximum control, electric brakes are worth considering.
For more info read our full breakdown in ‘What Is the Difference Between Mechanical and Electric Brakes?’.
Compare the two ranges here.
Don’t Forget the Ramps
Most standard machines will work perfectly with our standard Trailer ramps. But low-clearance equipment needs special attention.
For scissor lifts, small mowers, or any other low clearance applications, off-set ramps or custom ramp solutions are a safer option.
For roller machines, SureWeld offers rubber-protected ramps with a narrow taper at the ends to ensure smooth loading and extra protection of the Ramps and Trailer deck.
The goal is simple: safe, stable loading every time.
Final Checklist Before You Buy
Run through this quick list to make sure everything lines up:
- Machine weight (including attachments)
- Accessories and storage needs
- Trailer ATM
- Your vehicle’s towing capacity
- Machine dimensions vs Trailer deck size
- Brake Type
Choosing the right Trailer doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right information, and a clear understanding of your machine and towing needs, you’ll end up with a Trailer that’s safe, compliant, and built to work as hard as you do.
Now that you’re confident about which Trailer to choose (or if you still have questions), reach out to our team today!
