SMMT Guide on Trailers > Buying a Trailer

Buying a Trailer

The guide will help you to use your trailer safely and stay within the law, but how do you choose your trailer in the first place?

If you are buying new you have a wide range of manufacturers and trailer models to choose from, but the first thing to do is to ensure that the vehicle you intend to tow with is suitable.

The trailer manufacturer should be able to advise you, but the first essential step is to cheek the towing limit of your vehicle in the handbook or manufacturer's plate, or by contacting the vehicle dealer or manufacturer.
Separate figures are normally given for braked and unbraked trailers. (See also the sections on manufacturer's plates and towing unbraked trailers).

If you are buying second-hand from anyone other than a reputable trailer distributor, take great care to verify that the seller is the rightful owner before completing the transaction. You will have no right of ownership in the event that the trailer is later found to have been stolen.