Frequently Asked Questions
Trailer Sizes & Fitment
Q: What size trailer do I need for my car, truck, ATV, or side‑by‑side? A: Most cars fit a 7x16 or 7x18. 7k GVWR Car hauler. ATVs and side‑by‑sides typically fit 7x14, or 7x16 depending on how many units, accessories, and lift kits. Q: Will a 7x16 fit a full‑size pickup? A: Yes - Depending on the vehicles weight 7x16 fits most half‑ton trucks. Long‑bed crew cabs and vehicles weighing greater than 5,000 lbs. may require a 7x18 or 7x20 10k GVWR trailer. Q: Is 6x12 big enough for lawn care? A: Yes - a utility / landscape trailer for basic setups. Commercial crews usually prefer 7x14 or 7x16. models. Q: Can I haul two ATVs on this trailer? A: Most 14–16 ft tandem‑axle trailers can haul two ATVs side‑by‑side or staggered. Q: How wide is the usable deck space? A: A 7‑ft trailer offers 82 inches between the fenders. 84" option is also available.
Weight, Capacity & GVWR
Q: What does GVWR mean? A: GVWR is the maximum legal weight of the trailer plus cargo. Q: Is 7k GVWR enough for my vehicle? A: A 7k trailer carries 4,500 - 5,000 lbs. after subtracting empty trailer weight. Q: How much can this trailer actually carry? A: Payload = GVWR – empty weight. Example: 7k GVWR - 2000 lb. empty = 5,000 lb. payload. Q: Tandem axle vs single axle - which is better? A: Tandem axles offer higher capacity, better stability, smoother towing, and redundancy. Single axles are lighter and less expensive but limited in capacity.
Build Quality & Construction
Q: Is the frame fully welded? A: Yes — Packard Trailers only sells fully welded frames. Q: What gauge steel is used? A: Most quality trailers use 11–14 gauge steel depending on the frame. Q: Are the fenders aluminum or steel? A: All enclosed trailers are equipped with aluminum fenders. All other Packard trailers use steel fenders for durability. Q: Are the ramps reinforced? A: Yes — reinforced support bars prevent flexing under load. Q: Are the axles Dexter or Lippert? A: Most trailers we sell use Dexter or Lippert axles. Q: Does it have brakes on one axle or both? A: All 7k GVWR trailers at Packards are standard equipped with brakes on both axles.
Features & Options
Q: Does it come with D‑rings or tie‑downs? A: All Packard dump trailers include four deck‑mounted D‑rings, with additional tie‑down upgrades available. Our car hauler trailers come standard with multiple stake pockets along both sides of the trailer for flexible tie‑down placement. Our equipment trailers include welded rub rails paired with stake pockets, giving you multiple secure tie‑down points for heavy machinery.
Pricing & Value
Q: Why is Packard Trailers priced lower than other dealers? A: We use transparent pricing, low overhead, and strong manufacturer relationships. No prep fees or hidden charges. Q: What’s included in the price? A: Trailer, title, safety chains, breakaway system, LED lights, and full inspection. Q: Are there hidden fees? A: No — Packard Trailers does not charge hidden fees. Q: Why do trailer prices vary between dealers? A: Differences come from overhead, brand markup, frame thickness, axle quality, included features, and warranty coverage. Q: Do you offer cash discounts? A: Yes - Veterans (with valid ID) and cash qualifies.
Location & Convenience
Q: Why do customers drive an hour or more to Packard Trailers? A: Price. Customers routinely save hundreds and thousands on higher priced models by driving past closer dealers. Q: Do you offer Sunday pickup? A: Yes — we can open the shop on Sunday for scheduled pickups. Q: Do you deliver? A: Yes - delivery options are available. Q: How fast can I pick up after paying? A: Most trailers are ready same‑day or next‑day.
Warranty & Service
Q: What warranty comes with the trailer? A: Anvil Enclosed Trailers include a 5‑year manufacturer warranty, all other trailers include a 1-year warranties. Q: Who handles warranty repairs? A: Packard Trailers or any authorized service center. Q: Are the axles covered separately? A: Yes — Dexter and Lippert provide their own warranties.
Towing & Vehicle Compatibility
Q: Can my SUV tow this trailer? A: Many SUVs tow 5,000–7,500 lbs., which covers most 7k trailers. Check your vehicle owners manuals for your specific model. Q: Do I need a brake controller? A: Yes - any trailer with electric brakes requires one. Q: What size ball does it use? A: All tandem axle trailers use a 2‑5/16"inch ball. Single axle trailers utilize a 2" ball. Q: What’s the tongue weight? A: Typically 10–15% of total trailer weight.
Registration, Title & Legal
Q: Do you provide the title at pickup? A: Trailers under 2,000 lbs do not require title work. You will receive the Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) at the time of purchase. Trailers over 2,000 lbs require title and registration through the Florida DMV. Packard Trailers issues a 30‑day temporary tag and registration so you can use your trailer immediately while the DMV completes the official title documents. Q: Do I need insurance for a trailer? A: Trailers may be covered under your tow vehicle’s policy. Check with provider for your current policy coverages. Q: Are trailer brakes required in Florida? A: Florida requires brakes on trailers over 3,000 lbs.
Safety & Maintenance
Q: Does it have breakaway brakes? A: Yes - all trailers equipped with electric brakes include a breakaway system. Q: How do I secure my load? A: Use rated straps and secure vehicles at four corners. Q: How often should I grease the bearings? A: Every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
Use‑Case Recommendations
Q: Best trailer for hauling cars? A: A 7x16 or 7x18 car hauler with 7k–10k GVWR trailer. Q: Best trailer for landscaping? A: A 6x12 utility / landscape trailer for basic setups; 7x14 or 7x16 for commercial crews. Q: Best trailer for equipment? A: Packard trailer offers many equipment options to fit your specific weight and specific option requirements. Q: Best trailer for motorcycles? A: A 6x12 or 6x14 with tie‑downs and a low deck height or Enclosed trailer for weather related protection.