An even smarter decision is to buy one second-hand because, as Estelle Nagel of Gumtree SA points out, trailers are easy to inspect: “They don’t have too many moving parts or complicated mechanics, so, a road test, a check of the lights, and a close inspection of both tyres and undercarriage should give you all you need to know about the condition of a previously-owned trailer. And they’re functional work horses, so there’s no need for them to look like new.”

Estelle points out that trailers can easily be turned into income earners: “rubbish clearance and furniture removal are two very popular ways to make money”.

But Nagel also provides three cautionary notes before purchasing a trailer.

Make certain that you have somewhere you can safely and securely park the trailer without it becoming a major inconvenience for you or a road obstacle for others.
Ensure the trailer has the relevant documentation and registration.
Be very clear about the purpose of the trailer. If you’re planning on using it long-haul in any way, or to carry items which need protection, then invest in some form of canopy or cover so you can lock the contents and/or keep the rain off them.

Five Best-Buy Previously-Owned Trailers On Gumtree S.A.

Custom-built Venter with rails and ramp for bikes/motorbikes - Middelburg - R17000

Large (2.5m x 1.3m) trailer with high sides - Roodepoort - R12000

Compact Kupa Mission 5 – R8000 – Pretoria North

Flatbed trailer - Durbanville - R16,900

Bush Pig 4 x 4 camping trailer fully equipped - R37,000 - Plumstead