3 MIN. READ
Trailers play a vital role in the trucking industry, which serves as a bellwether of the U.S. economy. In 2020, trucks hauled over 10 billion tons of freight. The revenue of motor carriers represented 80.4% of the revenue of all transportation methods.
Sadly, as supply chain and labor constraints struck, trailer orders in December 2021 declined 18% for the month and over 42% for the year. Still, as original equipment managers (OEMs) managed backlogs, order volume rose close to three-month norms. However, the labor shortage continues to impact trailer availability. Many parts also remain in short supply. OEMs continue to use all available tools, including signing bonuses, to meet demand.
Manufacturers size the orders they book according to how many trailers they can turn out. They base estimates on the expected flow of parts and components. Trucking fleets anticipate needing high numbers of trailers in the coming months. Unfortunately, OEMs still hesitate to commit to future deliveries under present conditions.
Read on to learn more about precautions worth taking during the trailer procurement process and explore some notable trailer suppliers in the U.S.
Precautions in the Trailer Procurement Process
In light of the shortage of production slots, trailer buyers may be tempted to jump for whatever deals are available. Unfortunately, a late trailer delivery can cause the collapse of a shipping schedule. Also, with heavy usage of each trailer, minor flaws or slap-dash reconditioning can lead to huge problems on the road.
With continuing disruptions in the supply chain, trailer procurers must take precautions to ensure that companies offering trailers can deliver on time. Trailers must also be soundly constructed and comply with federal regulations. Finding high-quality trailers becomes more crucial than ever.
Notable Trailer Suppliers in the U.S.
With a dedication to accuracy, IndustryNet gathers a wide range of data on trailer suppliers throughout the country. If you're in search of a new source for trailers, you can find hundreds of trailers suppliers on IndustryNet. Or, check out the following list of some notable trailer suppliers in the U.S.A.
1. Manufacturers will find Charmac Trailers Inc. in Twin Falls, Idaho. The company manufactures custom and standard cargo and motorsport trailers. Charmac’s commercial cargo series is built to handle challenging loads. The trailers’ aluminum Treadbrite fronts resist road elements. Charmac’s experts can craft trailers to almost any required specifications.
2. GR Trailers LLC makes its home in Prague, Okla., in the heart of the Midwest. The company manufactures bumpers in addition to trailers. GR’s offerings include flatbed trailers, car haulers, cargo trailers and stock trailers. Dealers around the country offer GR trailers and bumpers. The most requested trailers accommodate 7,000-pound loads.
3. Established in 1980 in Suring, Wisc., Great Lakes Mfg. Inc. fabricates logging, refuse and material handling trailers in addition to vehicle light bars. The company has patented many aluminum products for use on trailers, including aluminum stakes and headboards. Great Lakes also provides steel bunks. The company offers brochures with details about its popular products.
4. H. Eby Inc. designs and constructs standard and custom aluminum horse trailers, livestock trailers, bulk commodities trailers and truck bodies. Headquartered in Blue Ball, Penn., Eby specializes in crafting its products from aluminum. The trailers and truck bodies feature lower maintenance costs and faster braking. Freedom from rust and dent resistance add to the trailers' desirability.
5. Valley Farm Industries in Benkelman, Neb., manufactures V-bottom agricultural trailers. The lower center of gravity of these trailers makes them easier to unload in uneven areas. The configuration also eliminates the need to tip the trailer to empty the contents. Valley Farm was founded in 2006.
6. Alum-Line Inc. in Cresco, Iowa, manufactures an extensive line of products, including custom aluminum flatbed, utility, cargo, livestock and auto trailers. The company website contains an online catalog. Alum-Line also offers a completely stocked parts department and a full-service shop for repairs and installations. Its products carry a five-year workmanship guarantee.
7. Muv-All Trailer Company offers low-bed single, double drop, paving, and mechanical and hydraulic detachable gooseneck trailers. Located in St. Martin, Minn., and in business since 1963, Muv-All strives to manufacture products that excel through the test of time. Muv-All trailers work hard. They stay on the road longer and qualify for a great trade-in allowance.
A Comprehensive Supplier Source
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