Pros and Cons of Gooseneck vs Bumper Pull Trailers
by Tom SWhen you have a trailer, figuring out how to tow it can be a tough decision. This is a little guide to help you decide between bumper pull vs. gooseneck trailers to help you decide which one is right for you.
People use trailers for all kinds of reasons. You might be using your trailer to move livestock. You might be using your trailer to haul equipment to job sites, or ATVs to your favorite trails and campsites.
Regardless of why you use your trailer, you should be able to know the difference between different hauling equipment.
How are Gooseneck vs. Bumper Trailers Different?
Basically, the biggest difference between a gooseneck and a bumper is the way they connect to your tow vehicle.
A bumper trailer attaches to a tow vehicle like a truck, SUV or motorhome using a hitch ball.
A gooseneck trailer has a long “neck” that runs up over the back of the tailgate and slides over a ball hitch in the bed of the truck.
- Cost Differences for a Bump Pull vs. Gooseneck Trailer
Bumper pull trailers are often littler, and lighter in weight. Typically, you will often pay a little less to get a bumper pull than gooseneck. This can be a big pro to someone who is looking for their ideal trailer on a budget.
- Size and Weight Differences for Bump Pull vs. Goose Necks
Gooseneck trailers can be longer without causing instability to the vehicle. They’re longer, wider and weigh more. But the pro is that they are able to carry far more weight than a bumper pull. That can be great for heavy hauls. But the con is that they need equipment that is a little less standard to most trucks.
With a bumper pull, depending on its size, you could potentially tow it behind an RV or SUV. If you don’t have a truck or want a smaller trailer, a bumper pull might be the way to go.
- Differences in Towing Capacity
Bumper trailers won’t let you tow as much as a gooseneck, so that would be considered a con. That’s why we started by listing different jobs people do with trailers. You have to know what you intend to do with your trailer, and the (at least approximate) weight of what you’re towing.
- Stability in Different Tow Types
Gooseneck trailers are stabler than bumper pulls, typically. This is because they rest the weight of the trailer on the rear axle of the truck instead of the rear bumper. The result is a trailer that does not sway or wobble behind the vehicle nearly as much as a bumper pull. That’s a big pro for goosenecks if you’re going long distances.
In summary…
Know the hookups on your tow vehicle. Know the weight of what you’re towing. Know the distance you’ll be towing it. Know your budget.
If you need help with any of this material, contact The Trail Parts Outlet with your questions!
