How to Store Your Utility Trailer Like a Pro

If you own a trailer or are considering purchasing one, it’s important to plan for how you’ll store it when not in use. Exposing your trailer to the elements or leaving it unattended in storage for extended periods can result in equipment deterioration and lead to expensive repairs or replacements.

Let’s take a look at the options for choosing where to store it, and the steps in preparation that many professionals utilize.

Where to Store Your Utility Trailer

Consider the following options when you look for the best location to store your utility trailer. There are several choices, depending on your space and budget, and each has its pros and cons.

Locations to Consider for Storage of Your Utility Trailer

1. Garage Pros: Protects from weather and potential theft, easy access. Cons: Takes up valuable space that could be used for other vehicles or storage. 2. Driveway Pros: Convenient, no additional cost, easy access. Cons: Exposed to the elements, potential neighborhood or HOA restrictions, may reduce available parking space. 3. Backyard Pros: Typically out of sight, can be more secure than front yard or driveway. Cons: May require creating a stable, level surface; can be challenging to maneuver the trailer in and out. 4. Storage Unit/Facility Pros: Provides secure, dedicated storage, often offers climate control, and frees up space at home. Cons: Monthly rental costs, may not be immediately accessible. 5. Covered Carport Pros: Offers protection from sun, rain, and snow while being more accessible than indoor storage. Cons: Still somewhat exposed to the elements, may require installation if not already available.

6. Commercial Trailer Storage Lots Pros: Designed specifically for trailers, secure, often with 24/7 access. Cons: Monthly fees, may not be conveniently located. 7. Barn or Outbuilding Pros: Provides excellent protection from weather, and often has ample space. Cons: Requires having a barn or large outbuilding, potentially limited access depending on the location. 8. Under a Deck Pros: Utilizes otherwise unused space, and provides some weather protection. Cons: Limited to smaller trailers, potentially difficult to access. 9. Alongside the House Pros: Out of direct sight, can be secure if fenced. Cons: Exposed to elements, may require paving or leveling. 10. Neighbor or Friend’s Property Pros: Can be a cost-effective option if you have an agreement with someone. Cons: May not be convenient, and can strain relationships if issues arise.

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How to Get Your Utility Trailer Ready for Storage

Here is a breakdown of the suggestions that professionals use to keep their utility trailers in the best condition when in storage.

What You Need to Do Before Storing Your Utility Trailer

Before storing your trailer for the off-season or an extended period, give it a thorough cleaning. This will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Depending on your trailer type, consider protective treatments, such as treating the wood on a flatbed trailer or safeguarding the exterior of a cargo trailer.

Grease the parts that move. Put a thin layer of grease on doors, latches, and other moving parts to keep them from rusting or corroding.

Whether you store your trailer indoors or outdoors, using a cover will help keep it in ready-to-use condition. A tight-fitting cover can shield your trailer from pest infestations and insect damage.

Mice and rats may chew on the tires, and insects can create nests in crevices and exposed areas. Cover your trailer to protect it from pests as effectively as possible.

Remember to leave enough room to walk the entire way around the trailer, if space permits. This will allow you to perform routine checks for mice, insects, and water damage.

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Battery, Tire, Rust and Rodent Prevention When Storing Your Utility Trailer

Battery Maintenance

Disconnect the battery: If your trailer has one, disconnect it to prevent it from draining.
Charge, if necessary. To keep the battery from sulfating, fully charge it before removing it if it’s only partly charged.

Rodent and Rust Prevention

Get rid of rodents: Rats and mice can do a lot of damage to the wires and insulation in your trailer. Use bait traps or repellents to prevent them from entering.
Rust prevention: To keep metal components from rusting, apply a coat of wax or rust protection liquid.

Taking Care of the Tires

When storing your trailer, it’s crucial to pay special attention to the tires to prevent issues like dry rot, cracked sidewalls, and flat spots. Start by thoroughly cleaning the tires with soap and water before storing the trailer for an extended period. It’s also important to unload the trailer so that the tires bear minimal weight.

Whenever possible, store the trailer in a cool, dry area, out of direct sunlight or UV rays. If indoor or shaded storage isn’t an option, cover the tires to protect them from sun damage. Placing the trailer on blocks to remove the weight from the tires is ideal, but if this isn’t feasible, ensure the storage surface is firm, clean, well-drained, and level. Even placing a piece of plywood between the tire and wet ground can be beneficial, especially if the trailer is on an unpaved surface.

To further protect the tires, move the trailer at least every three months to help prevent cracking and flat-spotting, although it’s best to avoid doing so in extremely cold weather. Finally, be sure to adjust tire inflation before putting the trailer back into service.

Regular Inspections

Your trailer needs to be checked for damage or wear regularly, even when it’s in storage.

• Tire pressure changes
• Tire flat spots
• Leaks or water damage signs
• Corrosion or rust
• Signs of rodent activity

Returning Your Trailer to Service

When you’re ready to put your trailer back into service, take the time to thoroughly inspect it. Ensure that all lighting connections and other links to your vehicle are functioning correctly before you start driving. Additionally, check that the tires are properly inflated.