Buying a trailer is a big investment. Depending on the type of trailer you need, you can expect to pay between $2,500 and $30,000. Not everyone can afford to buy a brand-new trailer when they’re shopping for one. Buying a used trailer is a more cost-effective alternative.
Whether you plan to use it for personal or business purposes, it’s important to find a reputable Albuquerque trailer sales dealer that offers high-quality used options.
In this comprehensive guide to used Albuquerque trailer sales, we answer some of the most common questions about buying a pre-owned trailer:
- What are the advantages of buying a used trailer?
- What are the disadvantages of buying a used trailer?
- What should you look for in a used trailer?
- What is the average price for a used trailer?
- Can you negotiate prices on used trailers?
- Are there specific regulations or inspections for used Albuquerque trailer sales?
- Can you finance a used trailer?
- What steps can you take if you have problems with your used trailer?
- How can you find Albuquerque trailer sales dealers for used trailers?
What are the advantages of buying a used trailer?
The most obvious advantage of buying a used trailer is the cost savings. Used trailers are generally more affordable than new ones. You can get a higher-quality trailer or a larger model within your budget if you’re willing to consider pre-owned options.
Some other perks of buying a gently-used trailer include:
- You avoid depreciation. New trailers experience about a 20% decrease in value during the first year of ownership. This phenomenon is true of many large purchases, including new vehicles. Buying used gets you a trailer with a stabilized value, making it a better investment in the long run.
- You reduce insurance costs. Insurance premiums for used trailers typically are lower than those for new ones because the replacement value is lower.
- You want a discontinued model. If the trailer model you had your heart set on was discontinued by the manufacturer, buying used may be the only way to get your hands on one.
Buying a pre-owned trailer is a smart choice. You can save money while getting a reliable and well-maintained trailer to meet your needs.
What are the disadvantages of buying a used trailer?
Buying a used trailer has its benefits. However, there are several potential disadvantages buyers should consider before deciding between new and pre-owned.
- Wear and tear. You can expect some normal wear and tear on a used trailer. If the previous owner used the trailer heavily or didn’t take care of it properly during ownership, it can have hidden damages that require costly repairs. Always work with a reputable Albuquerque trailer sales dealer who can provide inspection reports for trailers on their lots or permit you to get one from a trusted assessor before buying.
- Limited or no warranty. New trailers often come with manufacturer and extended warranties. Depending on their age, the pre-owned model you’re considering may no longer have coverage.
- Outdated features. Depending on how you want to use the trailer, you may encounter outdated features if you choose to buy used.
The advantages of buying a used trailer usually outweigh the disadvantages. Finding a reputable and trustworthy Albuquerque trailer sales dealer is the key to avoiding any serious drawbacks to buying pre-owned.
What should you look for in a used trailer?
If you’ve decided the benefits outweigh the risks of buying pre-owned, there are several steps you can take to find the best options available.
The most important factor when shopping around for used trailers is their overall condition. Look for signs of excessive wear and tear, rust, or other visible damage. Don’t forget to evaluate the body, frame, and undercarriage for structural issues.
Next is to ensure the trailer has a clear and valid title. Part of this process involves verifying its registration status. You can also request to run a vehicle identification number (VIN) check on the trailer to ensure it’s not had a history of problems or been in any serious accidents that could have caused hidden damage.
Other things to look for in a used trailer include:
- Cargo capacity. Determine its weight capacity and ensure it meets your hauling needs.
- Suspension and axels. Check the suspension system and axles for any signs of damage or excessive wear and tear.
- Lights and electrical systems. Make sure all brake lights, turn signals, and running lights work. Test all electrical connections to ensure they’re functioning as intended.
- Hitch lock and security. If the trailer doesn’t come with one, consider adding a hitch lock and security measures to prevent theft.
Conducting a thorough inspection of a pre-owned trailer is essential. Don’t be afraid to ask for the help of a professional mechanic or trailer expert to ensure you’re making a well-informed purchase. Reputable used Albuquerque trailer sales dealers never refuse to allow you to fully investigate before you buy.
What is the average price for a used trailer?
The average price for a used trailer depends on several factors, including the type of trailer you’re interested in buying.
Trailers come in various categories – dump, enclosed, equipment, gooseneck, utility, and more. Each type of trailer has its own price range in the pre-owned market. Prices depend on size, condition, and features.
Some price ranges for the most popular used trailers include:
- Utility trailers – $500 to $3,000
- Enclosed cargo trailers – $2,000 to $10,000
- Travel trailers – $5,000 to $30,000
- Horse trailers – $5,000 to $20,000
- Boat trailers – $1,000 to $5,000
Can you negotiate prices on used trailers?
Some dealers accept offers below the asking price for pre-owned trailers. Others may already price their used options as low as they can reasonably go without losing money on the sale.
The only way to know if you can get a lower price is to ask. Here are some tips for negotiating successfully.
- Do your research. Before you try to get a lower price, make sure what you’re asking isn’t below the average market value for similar trailers in Albuquerque.
- Be polite and respectful. Approach negotiations with a friendly and respectful attitude. If you act like you’re entitled to a discount, it’s likely to have the opposite effect on the trailer sales representative.
- Justify your ask. If you’re asking for money off the list price, back up your reason for making the lower offer. Did you notice defects or maintenance needs? Did you notice similar, lower-priced trailers during your research? Use that information to negotiate successfully.
- Offer to pay cash. Sometimes dealers are more willing to negotiate on price if you offer to pay in cash. Doing so makes the sale easier for them, so they’re likely to honor your request for a discount.
- Be prepared to walk away. Part of a successful negotiation is the willingness to walk away. When you’re willing to take your money elsewhere, some dealers do what it takes to get the sale.
Negotiating is a learned skill that requires patience, flexibility, and respect for the other party. You can increase your chances of success by following the tips above.
Are there specific regulations or inspections for used Albuquerque trailer sales?
As with new trailers, all pre-owned trailers for sale in Albuquerque must follow specific guidelines set by the New Mexico Motor Vehicles Department (MVD).
The MVD offers 3 different trailer categories for registration: regular, recreational, and freight. Most, including utility trailers, fall under the regular class. You must understand and follow these rules if you plan to buy used.
New Mexico also has license requirements in place for Albuquerque dealers who plan to offer pre-owned trailers on their lots. Dealers must complete an 8-hour pre-used dealer training course before the state issues them a license.
Used trailer dealers must take the class through an approved dealer educational provider. They must submit proof of training when filing their dealer license application.
In addition to these licensing requirements, pre-owned trailer dealers must follow consumer protection laws and truth-in-advertising rules.
Can you finance a used trailer?
Most dealers offer financing options to customers, including for used trailers.
At New Mexico Trailer Depot, we offer customers 3 financing options. Our application process is easy and straightforward. We work with our customers to get the best rates possible.
Our financing solutions include:
- Trailer Solution Financial offers financing to customers with a credit score of 570 or higher. They require a 10% downpayment and documentation fee to process your application.
- Mazo Financial is the best option for customers with a credit score of 570 or higher seeking a business loan.
- ClickLease offers lease purchase agreements that require only a soft credit check. They accept customers with credit scores as low as 500.
If you’re buying from a dealer that doesn’t offer this perk, you can secure financing through a bank, credit union, or online lender.
What steps can you take if you have problems with your used trailer?
New Mexico has consumer protections in place for customers who buy used trailers from dealers. The Advocacy and Intervention Division at the New Mexico Attorney General’s office handles complaints consumers are unable to resolve on their own.
Some of the steps you can take before resorting to contacting the division include:
- Review your warranty if one was provided for the trailer. See if any of the problems you’re having are covered.
- Contact the dealer to explain the issue and ask for assistance. Communicating in writing provides you with a record of your concerns and the response from the company.
- Document everything by keeping detailed records of any communications with the dealer, plus receipts for any costs you’ve incurred to correct the problem.
- File a complaint with the attorney general’s office if the dealer is unwilling to address the problems. You also can ask the Better Business Bureau (BBB)to intervene on your behalf if the dealer is a member.
How can you find Albuquerque trailer sales dealers for used trailers?
Finding reputable used Albuquerque trailer sales dealers isn’t hard when you know where to look. As with any other major purchase, do your research before deciding where to buy.
Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy dealer near you:
- Ask for recommendations. Most people prefer to buy from businesses where others they know and trust have had good experiences. Seek referrals from family, friends, and colleagues who have bought used trailers before.
- Check the BBB rating. Visit the BBB website and search for the dealership. The BBB provides ratings and reviews for businesses based on customer feedback and complaints.
- Read reviews and testimonials. Turn to sites like Google My Business, Yelp, and even the BBB to read reviews about a dealer. Some dealers put customer testimonials on their websites and social media feeds as well.
- Verify licensing and registration. Make sure any dealer you consider buying from is properly licensed and registered with the appropriate licensing authorities in New Mexico.
New Mexico Trailer Depot strives to provide a quality customer experience. Whether you’re buying a new or used trailer, we go the extra mile to make the experience a pleasant one. Stop by our lot today to explore our collection of pre-owned trailers.
