Aluminum Trailers vs. Steel Trailers: What’s the best?

Understanding Your Open Hauling Needs: The First Step

Before diving into the specifics of aluminum versus steel for your trailer, it’s essential to consider what you’ll be hauling and how often. Are you a recreational enthusiast from Starbuck needing a trailer to transport your ATV or UTV to local trails? A homeowner in Glenwood needing a utility trailer for occasional DIY projects or yard waste? A dealership in Alexandria regularly hauling cars? Or a maybe you are a contractor in Morris needing an equipment trailer for heavy machinery? Your answers will significantly influence which material is the best fit for your open trailer.

Pros of Aluminum Trailers

• Lightweight: This is arguably the biggest advantage of aluminum. Aluminum open trailers are significantly lighter than steel, often by hundreds of even thousands of pounds for larger models like tandem axle car haulers.
• Rust and corrosion resistant: Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to air, making it virtually immune to rust and highly resistant to corrosion from water, salt, and harsh chemicals. This is a huge benefit for open trailers used year-round in Minnesota’s diverse climate, from humid summers to snowy, salty winters.
• Easier to tow: A lighter trailer is generally easier to tow, brake, and maneuver, especially in tight spaces or challenging conditions, making it ideal for navigating around lakes or rural roads.
• Lower maintenance: Due to their rust-resistant properties, aluminum trailers require far less maintenance to maintain their appearance and structural integrity. They don’t need regular painting or rust-proofing, saving you time and money over the lifespan of the trailer. A simple wash often keeps them looking new.

Cons of Aluminum Trailers

• Less impact resistance: While strong, aluminum can be more prone to denting or deformation under significant impact compared to steel. This isn’t to say aluminum is weak, but an equipment trailer or utility trailer might show damage more readily from sharp blows or dropped items.
• More complex and costly repairs: Repairing aluminum, particularly welding, requires specialized equipment and expertise. Finding skilled aluminum welders in some areas might be more challenging, and the repair costs can be higher than for steel. However, reputable trailer service should be equipped for such repairs for all types of trailers.

Pros of Steel Trailers

• Superior strength and durability: When it comes to raw strength, steel typically outclasses aluminum. This makes steel trailers an excellent choice for hauling exceptionally heavy and often concentrated loads like excavators on an equipment trailer, or multiple vehicles on a car hauler. If you anticipate rough terrain or demanding jobs around a steel open trailer offers the peace of mind that comes with robust construction.
• Easier and cheaper to repair: In the event of damage, steel is often easier and more cost-effective to repair. Welding and fabricating steel is a more common and less specialized skill than working with aluminum, which can translate to lower repair bills at local service centers. Parts for steel open trailers are also widely available.
• Versatility in design: Steel’s inherent strength allows for a wider range of designs and custom fabrications, making it a highly versatile material for various trailer types, from basic single axle utility trailers to robust tandem axle equipment trailers.
• Time-tested reliability: Steel trailers have a long history of proven performance. Many older steel utility and equipment trailers are still in active service, a testament to their longevity when properly maintained.

Cons of Steel Trailers

• Weight: The most significant drawback of steel is its weight. Steel open trailers are considerably heavier than aluminum open trailers of comparable size and capacity. This can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, limited towing capacity, and increase wear and tear on your towing vehicle.
• Regular Maintenance: This includes frequent cleaning, inspections for rust, and potentially repainting or applying protective coatings like powder coat or zinc. Neglecting this can significantly shorten the lifespan of a steel utility trailer or equipment trailer.

Performance by Trailer Type

Let’s explore how aluminum and steel compare across common open trailer categories available in central Minnesota:

ATV/UTV Trailers

• Aluminum: Great for recreational users towing to trails or campsites. Lightweight, rust-free, and easy to haul.
• Steel: Rugged and tough for off-road environments, but heavier and more prone to rust.

Best choice for most riders in Alexandria, Starbuck, or Glenwood: Aluminum

Snowmobile Trailers

• Aluminum: Handles winter conditions effortlessly. No rust concerns.
• Steel: May suffer from corrosion if not meticulously maintained.

Best choice for winter sports enthusiasts across Minnesota: Aluminum

Utility Trailers

• Aluminum: Excellent for household use—hauling furniture, brush, or light tools.
• Steel: Better for heavier or commercial loads.

Ideal for homeowners in Starbuck or Nelson: Aluminum

Car Haulers

• Aluminum: Easier to tow, better for sports or collector cars.
• Steel: Best for heavier vehicles or commercial transport.

For commercial or industrial users near Sauk Centre or Osakis: Steel

Equipment Trailers

• Aluminum: Lightweight but limited in load capacity.
• Steel: Built for hard work. Supports skid steers, tractors, and more.

Preferred choice for contractors and landscapers in Morris and Hancock: Steel

Price: Steel Is More Affordable—At First

Steel trailers usually cost 20–30% less than comparable aluminum models. For buyers on a budget or those who only use their trailer seasonally, steel may be the more appealing option.

However, aluminum trailers can hold their value better, and you’ll likely spend less on repairs and maintenance over time. That makes aluminum a strong long-term investment—particularly for frequent users in Minnesota.

Resale Value: Aluminum Offers Higher Returns

Aluminum trailers retain their value well because they resist rust and generally maintain a better appearance over time. If you plan to upgrade later, you’ll likely get more back when selling an aluminum trailer, especially in active resale markets around Starbuck, MN.

Steel trailers, while durable, often show signs of wear more quickly—especially in climates like Minnesota’s where salt and moisture are a concern.

Summary: Aluminum vs. Steel at a Glance

Before making your final decision, visit Glacial Lakes Recreation in Starbuck, MN to discuss your specific needs with knowledgeable sales professionals specializing in ATV trailers, UTV trailers, snowmobile trailers, utility trailers, enclosed trailers, and equipment trailers.  Explore all the trailer options Glacial Lakes offers to find the perfect trailer to serve you well in Alexandria, MN, and beyond.  Contact Glacial Lakes Recreation today.