What Load Pro Trailers Are
Load Pro trailers are enclosed cargo trailers manufactured by Load Trail, a company based in Perry, Iowa. They come in different sizes — typically 5x8, 6x12, 7x14, and 8x16 feet — and are built with steel frames and aluminum or steel exterior walls. Most models have a single or tandem axle, depending on the size and intended use.
These trailers are designed for hauling equipment, tools, furniture, or general cargo. They sit somewhere between a basic utility trailer and a full commercial transport unit. The enclosed design protects whatever you're carrying from weather and theft, which is why they're popular with contractors, small business owners, and people who need to move or store items regularly.
Load Pro trailers are not custom-built to order — they're manufactured in standard configurations and sold through dealers. You buy one off the lot or arrange delivery, then own it outright. This is different from renting a trailer by the day or leasing one long-term.
Key Takeaways
- Load Pro trailers are steel-framed enclosed cargo trailers sold in standard sizes from 5x8 to 8x16 feet, designed for hauling equipment and goods.
- You purchase a Load Pro trailer outright from a dealer, not rent or lease it, and you become responsible for maintenance and registration.
- Prices vary by size, axle type, and features, but you should budget for delivery, registration, insurance, and routine maintenance once you own one.
- Load Pro trailers require a vehicle with adequate towing capacity, and you'll need to check your state's registration and licensing rules for trailers.
- Common uses include contractor equipment transport, moving household goods, and small business cargo hauling.
Sizes and Configurations Available
Load Pro offers several standard sizes. The smallest, 5x8, is light enough for most passenger vehicles to tow and fits in tight spaces. The 6x12 is a step up — still manageable for mid-size trucks but noticeably larger. The 7x14 and 8x16 models are heavier and require a full-size truck with a proper hitch and brake controller.
Most models come with either a single axle (lighter, cheaper, lower towing requirement) or a tandem axle (heavier capacity, more stable on the highway, higher price). Tandem-axle trailers also have different registration and insurance implications depending on your state.
Interior height, door type (single or double rear doors), and floor material (wood or aluminum) vary by model. Some versions include a side door for easier access to cargo. You'll need to match the size to both your towing vehicle's capacity and the actual cargo you plan to haul.
What You Pay and What Comes After
The purchase price of a Load Pro trailer depends on size and features. A 5x8 single-axle model costs less than an 8x16 tandem-axle version — the difference can be several thousand dollars. You'll find current pricing through Load Pro dealers, which vary by region.
Once you buy, you'll need to budget for several ongoing costs. Registration and title vary by state but typically run $50 to $200 annually. Insurance is usually inexpensive compared to vehicle insurance but is required in most states if you're towing on public roads. Maintenance includes tire replacement, brake inspection, light repair, and weatherproofing the seals and hinges.
You'll also pay for delivery if you don't pick the trailer up yourself, and you may need to upgrade your vehicle's hitch or add a brake controller if your truck doesn't already have one. Factor these costs into your decision before you commit to a purchase.
Towing Requirements and Vehicle Compatibility
Not every vehicle can tow a Load Pro trailer safely. Your truck or SUV needs to have a towing capacity that exceeds the trailer's dry weight (the weight of the trailer itself, empty) plus the weight of whatever you plan to load into it. A 5x8 trailer might weigh 1,200 to 1,500 pounds empty; an 8x16 can weigh 3,500 pounds or more.
Check your vehicle's owner's manual for the maximum towing capacity. If you're at or near that limit, you're already in a risky zone — you want a safety margin. Tandem-axle trailers also require a brake controller installed in your tow vehicle, which adds to the setup cost.
The hitch itself matters too. A Class II hitch (common on mid-size trucks) handles smaller trailers; a Class III or higher is needed for heavier loads. If your vehicle doesn't have a hitch, installation typically costs $300 to $800 depending on the vehicle and hitch class.
Registration, Licensing, and Legal Requirements
Trailer registration rules differ by state. Most states require you to register a trailer with the Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent, obtain a title, and display a registration plate or sticker. Some states charge based on the trailer's weight; others charge a flat fee. A few states don't require registration for trailers under a certain weight threshold.
You'll need the trailer's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and bill of sale from the dealer to register it. The process usually takes a few weeks and costs between $50 and $200, depending on your state. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm what documents and fees explore to your trailer size.
Insurance requirements also vary. Some states mandate liability insurance for any trailer towed on public roads; others only require it if the trailer weighs over a certain amount. Your auto insurance agent can tell you what's required and add a trailer rider to your policy, which is usually inexpensive.
Common Uses and Practical Considerations
Contractors use Load Pro trailers to transport tools, ladders, and materials to job sites. Small business owners haul inventory or equipment. Homeowners use them for moving, storing seasonal items, or hauling landscaping materials. The enclosed design keeps cargo dry and find, which is the main advantage over an open utility trailer.
Before you buy, think about how often you'll actually use it. If you need a trailer once a year, renting might be cheaper than owning, maintaining, and insuring one. If you use it regularly — weekly or more — ownership makes more sense. Also consider where you'll park it when not in use; trailers take up space and need to be secured against theft.
Inspect the trailer in person before purchase if possible. Check the door seals, floor condition, lights, and hitch. Ask the dealer about the warranty (usually one to three years on the frame and structure) and what's covered. A well-maintained Load Pro trailer can last 10 to 15 years or longer.
Where to Buy and What to Expect
Load Pro trailers are sold through authorized dealers across the United States. You can find dealers on the Load Trail website or search for "Load Pro dealer near me." Dealers typically have models on the lot that you can inspect and compare.
When you visit a dealer, bring your vehicle's registration or owner's manual so you can confirm towing capacity on the spot. Ask about delivery options, setup (hitch installation, brake controller), and the warranty. Some dealers offer financing; others require cash or a bank loan.
Delivery usually takes one to four weeks depending on whether the trailer is in stock or needs to be built. Once delivered, you'll handle registration and insurance on your own, though some dealers can point you to their preferred insurance agent or DMV office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tow a Load Pro trailer with a half-ton pickup truck?
It depends on the trailer size and your truck's towing capacity. A 5x8 single-axle Load Pro is usually within the range of a half-ton truck, but a 7x14 or 8x16 tandem-axle model is not. Check your truck's manual for the exact capacity and compare it to the trailer's dry weight plus your expected cargo weight. You need a safety margin, not just the bare minimum.
Do I need a special driver's license to tow a Load Pro trailer?
Most states do not require a special license for towing a standard enclosed cargo trailer. However, some states have rules about trailer weight or combined vehicle weight that may trigger licensing requirements. Check your state's DMV website or call to confirm the rules for the specific trailer size you're considering.
What happens if I don't register my trailer?
Towing an unregistered trailer on public roads is illegal in most states and can result in a fine, impounded trailer, or both. Registration is inexpensive and straightforward — do it before you use the trailer on the road. Your dealer can usually tell you exactly what documents to bring to the DMV.
Can I return or exchange a Load Pro trailer if I change my mind?
Return and exchange policies vary by dealer. Most dealers do not accept returns after a certain period (often 30 days) or if the trailer has been used. Ask about the dealer's return policy in writing before you buy. Once you've registered the trailer in your name, returning it becomes more complicated.
How much does it cost to insure a Load Pro trailer?
Trailer insurance is usually inexpensive — often $50 to $150 per year depending on the trailer value, your location, and coverage level. Contact your auto insurance agent and ask for a quote on a trailer rider. The cost is typically much lower than insuring a vehicle.