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Are You Covered?

In several past articles we have mentioned the necessary supplies of traveling while pulling a trailer.  From emergency and first aid kits to paperwork and other miscellaneous must-have items, Phoenix Coach Works’ main concern is that our customers and those who visit our site travel safely while still having a great time.

That said, even the most prepared and cautious travelers have been known to have bad experiences.  As the saying goes, “accidents happen,” and we would hate to see you left in the dark if something was ever to happen to you or your trailer.  For this reason we would like to take time this week to discuss trailer-towing regulation and insurance.

Whether you’re traveling to a horse competition, a fox-hunt gathering or a prestigious car show, the most important part of any trip is mapping your quest and preparing for the road ahead.  However, one thing that often goes overlooked while traveling interstate is the variance in towing laws.

Before we discuss these differences, let’s go over a few things that are an absolute must regardless of where you’re headed.  No matter where you travel, you WILL NEED taillights and a light for your license plate.  Though not required in every state the following items are just as important while pulling a horse trailer, toy hauler, custom trailer or recreation vehicle: safety chains, brake lights, clearance lights, turn-signals, reflectors and breakaway brakes.

While many states share similar requirements for people hauling trailers, some states may have different regulations that complicate traveling interstate.

For example, if you’re traveling from Alabama to Mississippi, you could suddenly be exceeding the maximum towing speed without even knowing (towing speed decreases by 10mph), you’re trailer may be too wide (maximum width narrows by 6 inches) and you may find yourself without trailer brakes in a state that requires them.

To avoid any of these mishaps, and the fines and penalties that go with them, be sure to always check the towing laws and regulations of the states you plan to travel through.  Doing so will not only keep you on track by avoiding any holdups, but it will also protect your pocketbook and driving record.

In the case that an accident does occur, you want to be absolutely certain that all damages to your trailer are fully covered when you bring it to Phoenix Coach Works for repair.  When you spend 10’s of thousands of dollars on a 4 horse trailer, you want the security of knowing that it is insured in the event that anything should happen. Enter…trailer insurance.

Just as individual states can complicate traveling with a trailer, auto insurance companies often do the same.  While some companies will cover liability and partial damages for a trailer accident that occurs while on the road, others will leave you to foot the entire bill for repair.  That is why you need to read your policy’s fine print and if you have any questions, call your customer service representative.

If it just so happens that there is limited or no guaranteed coverage for your trailer, it may be time to start looking for trailer insurance.  Even though some companies may cover trailer accidents that occur while towing, this does not protect you from natural disasters such as fire and flood.  Many companies that specialize in RV insurance also provide trailer insurance as well.  Not to mention that many major insurance companies offer additional coverage for trailers. Something else to consider is if something happens to your trailer while it is on your property, it may be covered by your homeowner’s insurance.

Lastly, once you have hashed out your insurance woes regarding your trailer, be sure to find out if any of your insurers have safety standards that must be followed to ensure your insurance.

As always, we hope that you have found this article both helpful and informative.  If you are currently in need of repair, custom construction or a difficult install please feel free to contact Phoenix Coach Works.  You may also contact us if you have any further questions regarding finding and obtaining trailer insurance.

And remember…in a time when it’s difficult to trust and rely on anyone, Phoenix Coach Works is here for you!

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Buckle Up and Ride

Last week we gave an enthusiastic shout out to our customers as a way to show our appreciation for the people who help make Phoenix Coach Works a success.

This week we’d like to get back on task and start talking business once more.  As was described last week, our customers range from lifelong equestrians to individuals who possess a nostalgia for shiny, chromed-out toys.

For those who have been loading and unloading trailers their entire life, please be patient as we provide an overview of how to properly prepare and tow a large trailer.  As a matter of fact, this week’s post may even serve as a reminder to some of the mundane tasks that often go overlooked after years of repetitive behavior.

Whether you’re hauling a classic car or several of your prizewinning stallions, safety in transportation is the primary concern when you’re planning to hit the road.  For that reason, begin with a thorough inspection of the vehicle with which you plan to haul.  Starting in the front and working your way back, check the following:

–          Fluid levels (including transmission, oil, and water/antifreeze)

–          All tires (including the spare) for unusual wear and correct air pressure

–          Make sure the hitch is attached correctly and securely

–          Wiring harness is clean and all wires are in place

–          All proper documents and licenses are in the glove box

Once you have checked your towing vehicle, it is time to inspect your horse trailer, toy hauler, or enclosed trailer.  Again, working your way from front to back look closely at the following:

–          Trailer wiring harness is clean and all wires are in place

–          Test the handbrake

–          Make sure there is no damage to the breakaway cable/chains

–          All tires (including the spare) for unusual wear and correct air pressure

–          Trailer structure for rust, loose fasteners, cracks and breaks.

If you happen to notice any structural damaged, feel free to contact Phoenix Coach Works to schedule an appointment and receive a thorough assessment of the damage.

Now that you have completed this checklist, you can safely attach your trailer to your vehicle and be on your way.  Be sure to remember all necessary items including extra gear, a human and horse first aid kit, and all emergency roadside equipment.  If you are having trouble thinking of the essentials needed for your truck and trailer, please refer to our past blog-post titled Dream the Possible Dream.  It provides a detailed list of many of the items that many travelers include while packing their horse, car, or enclosed trailer.

Most importantly though, don’t forget to have fun.  Life is a journey best traveled with those you love and a smile on your face.  So put your stress behind you and embrace the open road, trail or meadow.  Though you may already know your intended destination, buckle up and ride because in life, if you don’t know where you’re headed any road will take you there.

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Small Trailers

At Phoenix Coach Works we have seen small trailers rise in popularity over the past few years. More and more of our customers are asking for small horse trailers as well as small toy haulers and enclosed trailers. Here are some of the benefits of going small when comparing your trailer options:

  • Lower cost. If you need to buy a new trailer or possibly even your first trailer but are trying to be frugal in a tough economy like the one we are facing, a small trailer can dramatically lower the investment needed.

  • Lower towing power. The bigger the trailer, the more it weighs, and the more horse power you will need to tow it. Getting a truck or chassis adequate to handle large size trailers will contribute to a bigger bottom line.

  • More maneuverability. Small trailers are the perfect solution for attending events where space is limited. Our smallest size toy hauler camper will have you fitting into the tightest of spaces at motorcycle rallies.

Getting a small trailer does not have to mean that you aren’t going to get everything you want. At Phoenix Coach Works, our trailers (large and small) are built custom to your needs, so chances are we can help you figure out how to get just what you want out of your trailer, no matter what size you decide upon.

The first step to finding a trailer solution that will fit your needs and budget is to give us a call at (610) 495-2266. With over 25 years in the business, we are happy to give you our time and expertise to answer any questions you may have.

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Making the Most of Family Time

Summer is winding down; it’s cooling off and the kids are preparing to go back to school. While it is probably too late to plan any major family vacations until the kids have another break from school, there is always time for a quick weekend camping getaway. With cooler temperatures day and night, it is a beautiful time to whisk the family away to convene with nature and spend some quality time together away from game systems, computers, TV’s, and all of the other everyday distractions.

When you think of camping you likely think of the hassle of packing up the car with all of the equipment and the prospect of pitching a tent. But camping does not have to be a big production if you have the right equipment! An enclosed trailer with the right features can make for a perfect camping partner. At Phoenix Coach Works we custom manufacture everything from enclosed cargo trailers to toy hauler campers, so we can create any variation in between with as many features as you want (or can afford).

Your new Phoenix Coach Works trailer will become your perfect getaway companion, allowing you to head out of town at the drop of a hat! With a place to store all of your equipment and a place to lay your head at night, getting away from the doldrums of the everyday is a breeze.

If this sounds like a dream, it does not have to be – to get started just fill out the form to the right to get a quote for your Phoenix Coach Works enclosed camper. In no time you will be able to go hike the waterfall, canoe the river, go hunting and fishing, and be one with nature. You will be glad you did, and we bet even the kids will thank you (one day).

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Enclosed Trailers For Mobile Businesses

Everybody who has a need to haul their toys with them on vacations and road trips knows that an enclosed trailer is the most cost efficient means. As the smallest and lightest of the RV types, enclosed cargo trailers are easy to tow and get into small spaces. This makes them an excellent solution for much more than hauling toys!

If you operate a mobile business, such as selling goods at flea markets, mobile car washing and detailing, or even a construction company – the Phoenix Coach Works enclosed trailer can give you everything you need to safely haul your products and service related materials while providing you a place to relax and get out of the sun while you are working. Whatever your business, our custom enclosed trailers are built to your specific needs and can include as many or as little amenities as you want.

But don’t think that you have to get everything built into your custom enclosed trailer right off the bat. We know that times are tough and you may want to make an investment now to get the enclosed trailer and each year as you find the extra money, bring it into Phoenix Coach Works to add on to it in our custom trailer repair shop.

If you already have an enclosed trailer that was being used for something else previously and needs repairs or customizations, we are happy to help you with that as well. At Phoenix Coach Works we treat all of our customers like family whether they are buying a new custom built trailer or are coming in for a round of repairs. Call us today to learn why our customers keep coming back!

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The Perfect Getaway Companion: Enclosed Trailer Camper

These days so many of us are short on money and vacation time, and overloaded with extra stress. With everything that is happening in the world today it is even more important to make time to get away from the stresses of everyday life and take vacations. An enclosed trailer camper can help you vacation more! By converting a cargo trailer you can create a very affordable place to stay, not to mention a convenient place to put your bikes or any other toys when you hit the road.

You may think that the importance of vacationing would be common sense but according to a poll, nearly 50% of Americans do not take annual vacations.

Here are a few reasons why it is so important to getaway:

• Vacations Promote Good Health – Stress can manifest itself in several severe health conditions. By taking time to relax and recharge your batteries you are working to prevent illness.

• Vacations Keep Burnout Away – According to studies, employees who vacation are more productive and creative than their counterparts.

• Vacations Strengthen Bonds – A study by the Arizona Department of Health and Human Services found that women who took vacations were more satisfied with their marriages.

Now that we have sold you on why you need a vacation, let us help you create the perfect getaway companion! Our professional staff can help you with your enclosed trailer camper conversion and get you on the road long before summer is over.

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