Your Roadmap to Heavy-Duty Equipment
Buying trailers or shipping containers isn’t like picking out a new pair of boots—you need gear that works as hard as you do. At Equilhaul (based in seattle, WA), we’ll help you cut through the jargon and find the perfect fit.
1. Shipping Containers
Ask Yourself:
- “What’s my use case?”
- Storage? Opt for standard 20ft containers (ideal for tools, seasonal items).
- Workspace? Prioritize ventilation cuts or insulated containers for WA’s rainy winters.
- “New vs. Used?”
- New: Pristine condition, no dents (best for retail pop-ups or sensitive cargo).
- Used: Budget-friendly, minor wear (great for construction sites or farm storage).
Pro Tip:
Check for CSC plates (certified for international shipping) if you plan to move goods overseas.
2. Horse Trailers
Key Features for Washington Buyers:
- Aluminum vs. Steel:
- Aluminum resists Pacific Northwest rust but costs more.
- Steel is tougher for rough terrain (e.g., Eastern WA ranch roads).
- Tack Storage: Look for lockable compartments to secure saddles and gear during I-5 road trips.
- Weight Distribution: Match your truck’s towing capacity—our WA team can calculate it for you.
Red Flags:
- Faded welds, cracked floors, or missing DOT compliance stickers.
3. Food Trailers
Must-Haves for WA Health Codes:
- Stainless Steel Surfaces: Easy to sanitize for King County health inspections.
- Grease Traps: Required for most WA mobile food businesses.
- Permit-Ready Designs: Ask us about pre-wired electrical panels compatible with Seattle’s vendor regulations.
Ask Us:
“Can this trailer handle a Bainbridge Island ferry ride?” (Spoiler: Yes—we reinforce frames for coastal winds.)
4. Dump/Enclosed Trailers
- Dump Trailers:
- Choose dual-axle for heavy loads (e.g., WA construction debris).
- Hydraulic vs. electric lifts: We’ll explain which suits your workload.
- Enclosed Trailers:
- E-Track Systems: Secure motorcycles or furniture on WA’s bumpy backroads.
- Ramp Doors: Avoid back strain—opt for 6ft-wide ramps.
5. Washington-Specific Tips
- Weatherproofing: Our containers include rain gutter kits (Seattle-tested!).
- Permits: Need to haul oversize loads on I-90? We provide WA State DOT guidelines.
- Local Pickup: Save on freight—grab your trailer from our Seattle warehouse.