January 2004

Know Your Trailer’s Value

Noticeable wear and bad floors will kill your deal.

Keeping your trailer in top shape will greatly enhance its resale value.

Getting ready to sell your trailer? Whether yours will be a “for sale by owner” transaction, a dealer trade-in, or a consignment arrangement, you should know the “deal stoppers” that could cost you thousands of dollars in lost resale value. You also should skip repainting, a large expenditure most people think is important. Instead, spend the time on some simple fixes that can ensure you get top dollar.

The Killer

Assuming your trailer is structurally sound, obvious wear and tear ranks No. 1 as the greatest value detractor. However, regional buying habits significantly influence the definition of wear and tear. Serious wear in a steel trailer, a popular choice in the West…