10 Tips for Selling Your Used Trailer
If your business needs require you to buy a specific type of trailer, or you just want something new for an upgrade, you may want to sell your current trailer quickly and for as much money as possible. To do that, you need to prep it and advertise it properly. Here are our tips to help you “get it gone” and put cash in your pocket.
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1. Advertise to Target Your Buyer
Take into account when and where to sell your trailer, if applicable. Equipment or semi trailers are basically a year-round purchase, but something like a landscaping trailer will likely be more sellable before spring rather than late in fall. Smaller trailers may appeal more to a local market since buyers may not be too eager to travel a long distance to see them, while larger trailers can have a much wider audience.
2. Get the Trailer Ready for “Prime Time”
Wash the trailer thoroughly, scrubbing it inside and out, and power wash the underside. Clean the wheels, and even though it’s a work trailer, some tire dressing will add to the overall impression. While you’re cleaning it, make note of any issues, such as rust spots or dents.
3. Weigh the Value of Any Repairs
If the trailer needs some work, determine how much you want to do. These issues could include worn tires or brakes, those aforementioned dents, worn wooden floorboards or a rusty metal floor, or loose door hinges. A fresh coat of paint might make a big difference, too. Repairing any problems will take time and money, but you can potentially get more than what you spend. If you sell it “as is” you’ll get less, but you won’t have put the money up front. Consider both options and figure out which way you prefer to go.
4. Get Everything Ready for Buyers
If you have service or inspection records for the trailer, get the paperwork together for buyers to see. If the doors include locks, have the keys ready. Also locate the trailer’s registration and title and keep this handy so you’re not searching for it once someone has offered to make a purchase.
5. Take Photos for the Advertisement
There is no such thing as “too many photos” or “too much video” when you’re selling your trailer. Your goal is to provide a complete digital walkaround. Shoot from every side, and then, depending on what type of trailer it is, focus on the details. These can include the hitch or coupler; wiring and lights; wheels and tires, including the tread; door hinges and locks; roll-up doors up and down; shots of the underside; inside the trailer, including the floor; and any extra items, such as a refrigeration unit.
6. Give a Complete Description in the Ad
Just as with the photos, there’s never “too much information.” Describe the trailer in full, including its age and approximate mileage, if you know it; any special features it has; the type of cargo it primarily carried (which could be important if it wasn’t moist or caustic, which could potentially cause damage); its maintenance; and if the floor is wood, metal, or composite. Include such information as the trailer’s GVWR and payload; all of its dimensions; any extra items you’ll include with it; or if it was stored indoors.
7. Conveying Its Desirability to Prospective Buyers
Mention if you found anything extra special about it, for example, if it’s easy to tow. Say why you’re selling it, such as “It’s no longer enough for our growing business,” so buyers won’t wonder if you’re trying to get rid of a problem trailer. If your trailer is superior to the ones you see for sale in your area, mention that at the top of your advertisement so buyers take notice of your listing.
8. Set the Price
Look at advertisements for similar trailers to get an idea of its value. Make sure you look at trailers in similar condition and capacity, and remember that these are asking prices and not necessarily the selling price. You can add some extra for negotiating room, but don’t go so high that it scares people away. If you’re not sure what to ask, or your trailer has custom features that make it difficult to price, consider getting it appraised. Note in your ad that it’s been professionally evaluated so buyers know the price is accurate.
9. Look at It From Your Side
When you’re looking to buy something, what draws you to a particular advertisement? What do you want to see in the photos or video, and what do you want to know about it? Think about what would make you say, “That’s the one I want to see.” Take what appeals to you in other ads and include them in yours for maximum effect. It also doesn’t hurt to have someone check over your ad before you post it. You might not notice any missing information or spelling errors that a pair of “fresh eyes” might catch.
10. Consider the Timing
Place the ad when you’re available to talk to buyers and show them the trailer. If that isn’t possible, assign a trusted employee to do this. Buyers won’t wait, so make sure you’re around to connect with them.
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Now that you’re ready to sell, it’s time to place your ad. Our online marketplace reaches the nation’s largest network buyers and can help you sell and upgrade to your next trailer on your schedule.
Jil McIntosh
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