Manufacturers of toy haulers, sports equipment, and ATV trailers are increasing their designs with larger cargo capacities to accommodate oversized vehicles, such as side-by-sides (UTVs) and motorcycles. Some are designed to serve multiple purposes, doubling as utility trailers for hauling equipment or as camping trailers with tent attachments, providing versatility for different outdoor activities.

There's a growing demand for more customization options, allowing buyers to tailor their trailers with specific features and layouts to suit their needs. Toy haulers are calling for luxury amenities such as high-end kitchens, bathrooms, and entertainment systems to make them more attractive for extended stays. Flexibility in interior layouts is also becoming popular, with modular designs that can transform the trailer space into living quarters, equipment storage, or a workspace, depending on the user's needs.

Sports equipment trailers are increasingly designed with custom storage solutions such as racks, compartments, and adjustable shelving to optimize space for specific sports equipment like bikes, skis, snowboards, and fishing gear. In the ATV trailer market, customization extends to overall trailer size and layout, storage compartments, and optional accessories like toolboxes or spare tire mounts.

Manufacturers increasingly focus on lightweight yet durable materials, such as aluminum and composite materials, to enhance fuel efficiency. These materials are durable enough to withstand rugged off-road conditions, featuring rugged suspensions, all-terrain tires, and improved ground clearance while reducing overall weight for greater fuel economy.

Trailers are increasingly equipped with smart technology, including remote monitoring systems, GPS tracking systems, automated leveling systems, and integrated entertainment controls, to enhance convenience, security, and comfort during travel. Many have also integrated LED lighting for greater visibility.

There’s also a growing emphasis on energy-efficient features. Along with the previously mentioned LED lighting, many toy haulers and some trailers are now being outfitted with solar panels for auxiliary power and eco-friendly materials.

Another growing trend is constructing trailers with integrated loading ramps, winch systems, and hydraulic lifts that make loading and unloading heavy or bulky sports equipment, ATVs, motorcycles, and snowmobiles easier.

Enhanced safety features such as upgraded suspension systems, anti-sway technology, anti-theft measures, advanced braking systems, and reflective markings or lights for better visibility in low-light conditions are becoming more prevalent. Specialized racks, tie-down points, and adjustable straps explicitly designed to securely hold ATVs in place during transport and minimize movement and potential damage are also being integrated.

These trends in the toy hauler, ATV, and sports equipment trailer markets reflect an ongoing evolution driven by advancements in materials, technology, and consumer preferences for versatile and durable trailers tailored to support various recreational activities. Innovations are geared toward enhancing convenience, safety, and versatility. These trends indicate a growing diversification and sophistication of adventure enthusiasts and those seeking more comfort and convenience on the road.

Through the first half of 2024, the truck and trailer market continues to show signs of stabilizing. The market recovery from the excess capacity that originated during the pandemic due to an increase in new trucking companies has been slow. While there has been a reduction in the number of operating carriers, the adjustment and recovery have been slow. According to an article by Trailer/Body Builders, “The good news: The pandemic disruption and recovery have largely run their course, and traditional market cycles seem to be falling into place. The bad news: The freight cycle bottomed out in 2023, and the rebound remains on the horizon; that means that the heavy-duty trailer and truck markets can expect a down year in 2024.”

Companies are encouraged to focus on new trends as the market recovers to maintain competitiveness. Chris Bouchard writes, “The trailer industry is undergoing a transformative period, marked by innovative designs, technological advancements, and a heightened focus on sustainability. Encompassing recreational trailers to tractor trailers, several trends are shaping the future of this essential automotive industry sector.”

Corrosion poses a significant risk to trailer safety, gradually weakening the structure and leading to potential failures. Understanding the impact of corrosion is important for maintaining your trailer's longevity and reliability. In this blog, we explore the dangers of corrosion, its causes, and practical prevention strategies to ensure your trailer remains safe and roadworthy.

Taking steps to prevent trailer corrosion is critical for improving the useful life and productivity of the trailer, and it can also significantly impact road safety.

Corrosion can weaken a trailer's structural components, including the frame, chassis, and load-bearing parts. When the load-bearing capacity is compromised, cargo stability suffers. If the trailer can’t support the load, the domino effect is a risk that the cargo shifts or falls off the trailer. Shifting cargo and structural failures can lead to accidents on the road.

Another critical factor regarding trailer roadway safety is the reliability of the brake system, which can be compromised when the trailer becomes corroded. Corrosion can damage the brake lines, connectors, and other components, which can reduce braking efficiency or even lead to their complete failure.

No matter what type of trailer, proper ventilation is necessary for health, safety, and comfort. This can be effectively achieved by combining natural and mechanical ventilation methods.

Fresh air can flow through your trailer by natural ventilation methods such as windows, fixed vents, and skylights with built-in ventilation. Positioning windows on opposite sides is always a good idea for creating cross ventilation. Vents should be placed at both high and low points to take advantage of natural convection, where hot air rises and cooler air settles. It’s important always to be sure that vents are not blocked by an obstruction, which will mitigate effectiveness.

Installing roof and side vents is especially crucial for utility trailers transporting perishable goods.

In climates where natural ventilation is not enough, mechanical ventilation can be achieved via roof-mounted exhaust fans, air conditioning units, and portable fans. Individually or in combination, these methods can effectively remove hot air from the trailer and improve air circulation. When using a mechanical system such as air conditioning, schedule regular maintenance to clean vents and fans and replace air filters when needed.

Proper lighting and trailer lighting compliance are essential for the safe use of trailers on the road. This post will discuss the similarities and differences between trailer lighting requirements and those for cars and trucks.

We're always looking for ways to improve our lives through the products we use. We seek products that make tasks easy, work better and faster, last longer, cost less, feel good to use, and make us feel good.

In business, manufacturers look to add components to their end products that improve their customers' lives and solve problems, adding value and giving them a competitive advantage. But that search can be complicated as many affordable, readily available components are highly commoditized, making those unique, differentiating products a challenge to find.

The answer could lie in the design of custom components that can solve your unique problem, help your end product stand out, and give you a competitive advantage. 

From the Wild West to the Midwest, Austin Hardware® knows a thing or two about horse trailers, and we work with some of the top horse trailer manufacturers in the business. Your horse and your trailer are both major investments for you, and you want to be sure you can enjoy your invested dollars while keeping your horse safe and comfortable during transport. Horse trailers come in various options, sizes, and investment levels. There are many different options, and Austin Hardware® works with suppliers to some of the top trailer manufacturers in the U.S., providing top-quality hardware, products, and services. 

Did you know that Austin Hardware supplies hard-working hardware to some of the biggest trailer manufacturers in the business? With 9 U.S. locations and 60 years of experience, we work with some of the best in the industry. We also have the products and knowledge to outfit many different types of trailers.

From car haulers to horse trailers and everything in between, we have the hardware you need for your trailer. We also have a helpful team of experts willing to set up a time to discuss your business goals and unique set of needs. No matter what size your business, we have multiple teams of experts ready to work alongside your business as a partner to provide you with the best trailer related solutions in the industry.  

Enclosed trailer and horse trailer manufacturers, which are fabricated from aluminum in particular, often have trouble with 3-piece rear door and ramp door hinge alignment.

It takes precise measurement and careful hands to align most standard 3-piece rear and ramp door hinges correctly due to the challenge of laying the hinge flat for welding or bolting. This can add an inordinate amount of time to the assembly process. Additionally, while most assemblers get close, even a slightly misaligned hinge can adversely affect its durability and longevity. These are two critical expectations for buyers of high-end aluminum trailers.