What Are Single-Axle Trailers?

A single-axle trailer has one axle with a wheel on each end. This simple rig design attaches to the trailer with clamps or springs. Compared to dual models, single-axle trailers are smaller and have one set of wheels. Despite its smaller size, the single-axle configuration can haul a multitude of loads — whether you own a landscaping business or pull off-roading vehicles during the weekend.

Because of their size, single-axle trailers are easier to maneuver in tight spaces and around buildings. If you’re trying to park in an area with limited room or need to get around sharp corners, a single-axle trailer gives you more leeway. The unit’s adjustable towing angles and lower weight may make towing more manageable.

A single-axle trailer’s compact size also makes it more fuel-efficient. The trailer has fewer parts to maintain, which may make upkeep less expensive. Maintaining and replacing two tires and their components is more economical compared to four.

Pros of Driving With One Axle

The streamlined single-axle trailer design makes this configuration a cost-effective solution for a range of industries and recreational uses. Advantages of working with a smaller unit include:

• Better fuel economy
• Fewer components to maintain
• Improved maneuverability
• More affordable purchase price
• Less weight to manage

The lightweight rig helps improve steering and is especially beneficial when stopping. Hauling a trailer with one axle may allow for shorter stopping distances, creating less wear on your truck or mid-sized vehicle.

Cons of Driving With One Axle

While single-axle trailers have many benefits, a few drawbacks of the units include:

• Potential for greater wear: With only one set of tires holding up the unit, a single-axle trailer may undergo more stress from absorbing the weight of the load. Moving heavy loads with a single-axle unit may wear out the trailer tires faster because there is more weight on each wheel.
• Less load capacity: Single-axles have less load capacity, which limits how much equipment or material you can haul.
• Less stability: If a single-axle trailer doesn’t have suspension, you may not have as much stability or load cushion when traveling over bumps.

Another concern for single-axle units is that they may not have brakes. A trailer’s braking system depends on its weight. Small rigs carrying less weight can often operate securely at higher speeds without a separate brake structure. Plus, it’s not always feasible to manufacture every unit with brakes. If you’re hauling a lightweight trailer and cargo, you can likely rely on the brakes in a modern vehicle to stop the truck and trailer safely.

Most states necessitate independent braking systems when trailers exceed a gross weight of 3,000 pounds, although some states have smaller or larger thresholds. Check your state’s trailer braking system regulations to ensure you’re both compliant and safe with a single-axle unit.

Uses of Single-Axle Trailers

Single-axle trailers are ideal when you have smaller loads and lightweight cargo. Though they may not be the biggest option on the lot, they can still get the job done for many people. A single-axle trailer may be good for hauling the following items:

• Large appliances
• Building supplies
• Furniture
• Lawn care equipment
• Motorcycles
• Landscaping materials, like mulch, dirt, stone and sand
• Off-roading vehicles
• Small tractors

It’s important to understand a single-axle trailer’s weight limits and avoid overloading them. If you know what type of cargo you want to haul, be sure to look for a unit that can support its weight. Placing too much load on the rig can cause problems with the hitch and affect your towing vehicle. Overloading a single axle can also increase your risk of tire blowouts and accidents.

Without exceeding the gross weight limit of the trailer, you can haul just about anything. If you opt for an enclosed trailer, your assets will be secure. If you choose an open-bed unit, make sure you properly strap down your freight.

What Are Dual-Axle Trailers?

A dual-axle trailer, also known as a tandem-axle, has two sets of wheels. The second axle is positioned directly behind the first, and both axles have a wheel on each end. With four tires holding up the unit instead of two, a dual-axle trailer can evenly disperse the weight of your cargo.

Because of its boosted support and higher load capacity, a dual-axle trailer can increase your range of applications. Dual-axle units give you more room to haul massive loads, making it the perfect solution if you’re looking to expand your company in the future. Investing in a dual-axle trailer gives you room to grow, no matter if you’re extending your fleet of equipment or towing items in bulk.

Although the larger units are often more expensive than single-axle rigs, they usually deliver a higher return on investment over time. Their increased stability also allows you to haul heavy payloads, even when driving at highway speeds.

Advantages of Dual-Axle Trailers

A dual-axle trailer may be a good fit if you need to transport heavy loads or carry multiple items. A tandem-axle trailer is also ideal for traveling long distances. This could be helpful if your company needs to make interstate exchanges, or you need to travel several hundred miles to pick up heavy equipment.

Additional benefits of a dual-axle trailer include:

• Improved stability: A dual-axle trailer offers improved weight distribution due to its four tires and suspension system. This improved stability reduces the amount of swaying you experience. When your truck and trailer are steadfast, you can improve hauling safety for both you and the other drivers on the road. If you’re looking for even more trailer stability, you can install anti-sway bars for help driving through wind-prone areas.
• Built-in braking system: In most cases, tandem axles have independent braking systems. The two types of trailer braking methods include electric and hydraulic. Electric versions rely on your vehicle’s electrical system for power, while hydraulic surge brakes are self-contained in the trailer. Hydraulic brakes activate in response to the towing vehicle. Brakes make towing safer and improve stopping distances when hauling hefty weight.
• Fewer tire repercussions: Because double-axle trailers have four tires, a flat tire may have less of an effect on your unit. Changing the tires on a larger trailer can also be easier if you experience a blowout because you may not have to use a jack.

Disadvantages of Dual-Axle Trailers

With a more complex design, a tandem-axle trailer tends to cost more and weigh more compared to its smaller counterpart. Relying on a bigger trailer to carry your large cargo may have a few other disadvantages, including:

• Higher fuel usage: Because of its size and weight, the unit will also increase your fuel usage. However, one way to combat poor gas mileage is to invest in a trailer engineered with quality composites. They can help create a lighter and tougher build compared to typical materials.
• Increased maintenance expenses: Your maintenance costs relate to the number of tires, as well as the size of the trailer. In both cases, a double-axle unit could cost more to maintain.
• Less navigable: Unlike a single-axle unit, a dual rig won’t be able to fit in tighter parking spaces or make sharp turns. It’s important to be especially careful of your surroundings when maneuvering a large dual-axle trailer.
• Higher toll payments: If you plan to use your trailer on toll roads, you may pay a higher fee for a dual-axle trailer. Some toll roads determine their prices by the number of axles in your vehicle or the vehicle’s weight. Either way, a dual-axle unit may cost more than a single-axle trailer.

Another consideration for dual-axle trailers is the level of your freight. Level towing means your products are level at all times. It makes for a safer operation, and it also increases the lifespan of your tires.

Uses of Tandem-Axle Trailers

A tandem solution can carry many of the same items as a single-axle trailer, but at much heavier weights. For example, with a tandem-axle trailer, you could haul larger ATVs, a higher volume of materials or several large appliances. Typical uses specific to a dual-axle trailer include:

• Bulk items
• Generators
• Heavy equipment
• Industrial machinery
• Multiple vehicles
• Race cars
• Tractors
• Trucks

The heavier the item you’ll be hauling, the bigger the trailer you may need. Make sure to reference the equipment’s manual and ask the experts for a trailer’s load capacity before purchasing. Like single-axle trailers, you should avoid exceeding the maximum weight limit on a dual-axle rig to avoid accidents, damage to the unit and damage to your vehicle.

About Trailer Axle
“trailer axle kit”
“single trailer axle”
“single trailer axle weight limit”
“trailer torsion axle”
“trailer tandem axle”