5 Common Mistakes When Purchasing a Second-hand Trailer

When it comes to purchasing a second-hand trailer, there are several factors that every business owner should keep in mind to avoid dissatisfaction down the line.
While the prospect of owning a high-quality second-hand trailer can be cost-effective and exciting, it is crucial to exercise caution to ensure a smooth buying experience. 

Here is a list of the 5 most common mistakes that people often make when buying a used trailer, along with valuable tips on how to avoid them.

1. Buying from unreliable sources 

A risky mistake many buyers commonly make is purchasing a second-hand trailer from unreliable sources. While private sellers and certain online platforms might offer
attractive deals, it is important to proceed with caution and verify product's quality. 

Buying from a reputable dealer or individual with a solid track record is highly recommended. Reputable dealers earn their reputation from the quality of both their
products and service. This is displayed in favourable customer reviews of clients who have benefitted from their professionalism and above-and-beyond service. Therefore,
it is advisable to check online reviews and feedback. Also, they often offer warranties, ensuring you have some recourse in case of unexpected issues, and are willing to
answer all of your questions.

2. Not thoroughly checking the trailer’s condition

One of the most common mistakes that buyers make is failing to thoroughly inspect the condition of the trailer before purchase. While a visually appealing exterior might
be tempting, it is essential to look beyond the surface to examine the true condition of the trailer. Common issues such as rust, leaks, tire wear, and structural damage
can significantly impact the trailer'sperformance and safety. Be sure to carefully examine these elements to ensure they are in good condition. 

It is a good idea to hire a service professional to conduct a thorough inspection of the second-hand trailer to identify which parts need servicing and/or replacement.
Service professionals will be able to quickly discover any hidden problems, saving you from costly repairs down the road.

3. Ignoring the legal aspects

When purchasing a second-hand trailer, overlooking the legal aspects can lead to unforeseen complications. It is vital to check the trailer's title, registration number,
and ownership history.  Ignoring these important legal aspects can potentially result in legal troubles and financial losses. It is important to consult with your local
vehicle department or relevant legal authorities to ensure a smooth transaction.

4. Not considering the towing capacity of your vehicle

Before making a purchase of a second-hand trailer, it is crucial to evaluate whether your semi-truck can handle the trailer’s cargo and weight thresholds. Towing a trailer
that exceeds your vehicle's towing capacity can be dangerous and lead to accidents or severe mechanical problems. 

It is important to consider factors such as the trailer's weight, tongue weight, and your vehicle's towing capacity. Your vehicle's owner's manual will provide all the
relevant information while seeking professional advice is always a good idea.

5. Overlooking the total cost of ownership

While the purchase price is certainly an important element to consider, many buyers make the mistake of not taking into account the total cost of ownership. However,
doing so is important to help you remain within your budget as it includes all associated expenses, such as ongoing maintenance, insurance, storage, and other ad-hoc costs.
These auxiliary costs can quickly add up and significantly impact your budget. 

It is a good idea to take the time to calculate the overall expenses associated with owning a second-hand trailer. Be sure to factor in regular maintenance, insurance premiums,
and storage fees for example. This approach will provide a more realistic picture of the financial commitment involved and will help you make an informed decision
based on your budget.

About TIP Used

TIP Used – part of Europe’s leading truck and trailer leasing and rental provider TIP Group – is one of the largest suppliers of well-maintained second-hand trucks and trailers
in the commercial vehicle sector. 

With over 55 years of experience, TIP Used offers a variety of well-maintained used products from the best brands in Europe, including Krone, Schmitz, SDC, Volvo, MAN
and DAF. With 120 TIP workshop locations, you can also request any modifications to a vehicle before purchasing while enjoying extra services such as lifecycle
maintenance and repair, as well as telematics.

Visit tip-used.com to find the used trailer that best suits your haulage needs on a budget. One of the local Sales Managers will be happy to help you find the perfect transport
solution to expand your fleet without compromising safety and quality.