Single Axle Vs. Tandem Trailer — What’s Better?

If you are interested in buying a trailer for your car or ute, you may have already noticed that there are two main types for sale in Australia: single axle trailer and tandem axle trailer models. But what is a tandem trailer, and which type of trailer is best for your vehicle and your specific needs? We’re going to answer these questions and more below, so keep reading to find all the information you require.

What is a tandem trailer?

A tandem trailer is a trailer with two axles rather than one. Consequently, it also has two sets of tyres and brakes, rather than one set found in a single axle model.

Single axle car trailer vs. tandem trailer — factors to consider

When deciding whether to buy a single axle or tandem axle trailer, the following factors should all be considered carefully:

• Load capacity — How much you are planning to haul in your trailer will play a big part in deciding whether a single axle or tandem axle model is the best choice. If, for example, you will mainly be hauling garden waste in your trailer, a single axle model is likely sufficient for your needs. On the other hand, if you are planning to haul several thousand kilos of building materials, you will need a tandem trailer. Generally speaking, loads of up to 1,000 KG can safely be carried on a single axle trailer, while tandem or dual axle trailers can be built to carry much heavier loads.
• Initial cost — Many tandem axle trailers are considerably more expensive than their single axle counterparts. With this in mind, it may be wise to focus on single axle models if you have a smaller budget. However, if you need to carry heavy loads regularly, you should not sacrifice safety to bring down the cost of your new trailer.
• Fuel economy — In general, tandem axle models weigh more than single axle models. Unless you need the additional carrying capacity of a tandem axle trailer, a single axle model will be the best choice regarding fuel economy.
• Ease of maintenance — A single axle car trailer with a GTM of under 750 KG does not need to have brakes fitted according to Australian law. This means that smaller single axle models are generally easier to maintain.
• Convenience — The more compact design of single axle models means they are more convenient to use in urban areas. If you often have to park in tight spaces or manoeuvre in areas with many obstacles, a single axle trailer will prove to be the most convenient option.
• Running costs — Ongoing running costs are a big concern for commercial organisations and may also be a factor for private trailer owners. If you are keen to keep your trailer running costs to a minimum, a single axle model is an obvious choice.

These are the main factors you should consider when choosing between single and dual axle trailers in Australia. If you are still unsure which type to buy, here are some other points to consider that may help you make up your mind.

Other points to consider

If you are still on the fence and you don’t know how you’re going to choose between a single or tandem axle trailer, consider the following points:

• Experience — If you have never driven a vehicle with a trailer, you will likely find the learning curve a little steeper with a tandem model.
• Ride Quality — If you wish to transport sensitive electrical equipment or fragile items, you will want the best ride quality possible. With twice as many axles and tyres, this will normally be a tandem axle trailer.
• Portability — A small, single axle trailer should be easy to carry around, making it a more portable option than a double axle model.

If you are still not sure which type of trailer is best for your needs, contact us now. We can tell you everything you need to know about the different types of trailers we have available and help you select the right one. We can also answer any questions you have about the law relating to tandem and single axle trailer load capacity in Australia, helping you avoid breaking it unintentionally.