Everyone appreciates value for money, and buying a second-hand trailer offers considerable savings compared to a brand-new model. Whether you plan to use your trailer for work or domestic purposes, you can enjoy peace of mind by following some simple rules when inspecting a potential purchase.

While we recommend always having a certified WOF inspector check your second-hand trailer over to ensure it fully complies with all NZTA requirements, the following areas of the trailer should be considered before completing the purchase.

PREVIOUS OWNERSHIP

The first thing to check is – is the trailer able to be sold? The last thing you want is to purchase a stolen or borrowed trailer. It’s good to check if it has a current WOF and registration – not having one could be an indication that there are faults with the trailer.

Carjam.co.nz is a great resource for checking any registered vehicle – simply enter the registration number and the information about that vehicle is free and available to access.

WHERE IT WAS MADE

NZ made trailers are, as a general rule, stronger and better made than imported trailers. They are made with parts that have spares that are easily available, meaning that any repairs or replacements can be done quickly, and without the cost of importing replacement parts. Obtaining replacement parts for an imported trailer can often mean that the cost of repair is much higher than it should be on a cheap trailer.

THE LOAD RATING

It’s important that the trailer is capable of carrying the loads you need it to. For example, a light car trailer may not be heavy enough to transport a small digger. Always check that the trailer has a serial number, serial plate or GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass), and ensure it’s adequate for what you will be using the trailer for.

SUBFRAME

Is this sub-frame well built? Does it have robust cross-members? We recommend box section of 50mm x 50mm or bigger to ensure strength and stability in the finished trailer. Other things to check include:

• Is it rust free?
• What finish is it (galvanised steel is best and will last the longest)?
• Has it been welded together, rather than bolted?
• Are the welds sound?
• Are there any cracks or signs of damage?

COUPLING

It’s important that the coupling matches the towball on the vehicle that will be towing it. In NZ, there are two towball sizes – 1 7/8” or 50mm. Couplings must also have manufacturers marks (indicating who made it) for it to be legal to use.

Check the coupling for any cracks or deformities. These with compromise the coupling and make it illegal.

It’s also a good idea to try the coupling on a towball of the correct size. When wriggled, the coupling should not clunk up and down - but should not be completely rigid on the towball either.

RIMS & TYRES

Is the load rating of the tyres going to be sufficient for what you are using the trailer for? You can check out our load speed index here to check this. Tyres should also not be perished in any way and have sufficient tread – in NZ, tread depth must be at least 1.5 millimetres right around the tyre for them to be legal and roadworthy.

Rims should not have any cracks or damage which could lead to the unit failing and causing an accident.

BRAKING SYSTEMS

If fitted, brakes must work correctly and not be excessively worn or damaged. This is a minimum requirement if the trailer is to pass a WOF check.

LIGHTING

Tail lamps must work when connected to the tow vehicle. While not essential, we recommend LED lights if possible, as they last longer, are cost effective to replace if necessary and carry better warranties than bulb lighting.

DECKING

A trailer deck is probably the easiest component to replace.  This does cost money and take time, however.  Materials include new flooring and fasteners. When installing new decking, it’s important that you know how to fit the timber correctly, as well as having the skills and equipment to drill new holes through the crossmembers, and reattach wiring underneath.

BEARINGS

It’s crucial that the bearings on a trailer are in good condition. Bearing failure is the number one cause of trailer related accidents. When spun, wheels should turn freely, have no play and not make excessive rattling noises when turning.

We recommend having a certified WOF inspector check the bearings on a trailer prior to purchase to ensure that they are in good condition.