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FAST FACTS ABOUT TRAILERS

Industry FAQs
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1. Who purchases trailers?
Millions of Americans own a trailer of one type or another. When you look at our highways, it is surprising how many different types and designs of trailer you will see. Hundreds of different configurations of trailer are available to meet the different needs of Americans on the move. Additionally, many businesses such as landscapers, plumbers and contractors need enclosed trailers to transport their tools, equipment or products in an enclosed, safe, protected environment.

Trailer owners include just about anybody with a special interest or hobby involving transporting large, heavy and valuable objects, or individuals who must transport cargo or large animals. For some people, a trailer is simply a means to move objects they need to transport. For other people, their trailer is integral to their chosen lifestyle or hobby. Today, more and more people are enjoying active outdoor lifestyles that involve "toys" that must be transported to a location where they can be used. As a result, many trailers are specially designed for the owner's lifestyle needs such as hauling race cars, motorcycles, snowmobiles, ATVs and horses.

More and more people are adding living quarters to their specialty trailer, combining the advantages of a recreation vehicle with the hauling capabilities of a cargo trailer.

Trailers are an ideal way to transport valued possessions without investing in a second powered vehicle such as a large cargo van or truck. A trailer can often be towed using a car, SUV or pickup truck equipped with a tow hitch.

2. What are specialty trailers?
Trailer manufacturers recognize the market for products designed to meet specific customer needs, eliminating the potentially hazardous consumer modifications. As a result, the amenities necessary for any particular activity are built right into the trailer. For example, horse trailers are equipped to transport animals to trail rides, rodeo or race events in comfort and safety. Farmers use livestock trailers to transport their animals and farm supplies. And, custom trailers are used as bookmobiles, mobile concession stands and field offices. Auto carriers and race trailers transport vehicles to shows and races, as well as providing a rolling auto shop.

3. How big is the cargo trailer industry?
The cargo trailer industry represents about $1 billion in annual sales. Enclosed cargo trailers comprise a market of 226,000 units and open flatbed trailers, 276,000 units.

4. Do trailer manufacturers have a trade organization?
The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers ( www.natm.com ) was founded in 1987. The association represents builders who produce trailers weighing less than 26,000 pounds. The association represents the interests of trailer manufacturers to the public and the government. It also compiles trailer manufacturing standards and encourages manufacturers to abide by its "Guidelines for Recommended Minimum Manufacturing Practices."

5. Are all trailer manufacturers members?
No. NATM reports having about 350 members who produce about 70 percent of the trailers on the road. There are no precise figures on the number of trailer manufacturers in the U.S.

6. How do I find a trailer?
Most manufacturers sell product through trailer dealerships and not directly to the public. Consult the Yellow Pages under "trailers." Trailer manufacturers and extensive product information are available on the Internet.