For marinas, boat storage facilities, boat dealers and boat mechanic shops, it will be important to have the right type of trailer to quickly and easily move boats around on dry land.
There are two different basic options in how yard trailers are designed. One is a self-propelled trailer, and the other is a towable trailer that has onboard hydraulics. Both are good options for any boat service or company. There are some differences to consider before making a choice if you are only going to purchase one style for your yard.
Self-Propelled
The self-propelled series of yard trailers are the workhorses of the yard. Depending on the size of the trailer they can handle boats up to 85 feet with a weight capacity of 200,000 pounds. Look for systems with at least four wheels and the ability to move, fully loaded, even over gravel, rises and uneven types of surfaces.
Designed to provide power with onboard engines and hydraulics, these are the ideal trailer for maneuvering indoors and in smaller spaces both indoors and out. The trailers can be equipped with various types of operator stations and onboard cameras to allow for complete visibility during use.
Towable
Towable yard trailers are a lower cost option as they are not self-propelled. They can handle boats of all sizes, including sailboats of up to 200,000 pounds and 100 feet. These trailers are designed with one-man operation in mind and are specialized in their design to meet specific boat styles and configurations.
With hydraulics included, these trailers can easily lift the boat or lower it to the ground through the operator control. They can also be designed to allow for full submersible operation, something that may be critical for the larger sized sailboat trailering requirements.
Both options in trailers should come with arms that are fully adjustable, padding to protect the boat as well as all safety features for operator safety. They should also be designed with durability in mind, something that is easy to find out by checking the manufacturer’s reputation.
