Many people look at the upfront price of a trailer and think, “I’ll just rent one for the weekend to save money.” But is that actually true? When you look at the math over 1, 3, or 5 years, the results might surprise you.
The Hidden Costs of Renting
It’s not just the daily rate (often $50 – $100 AUD). You also need to consider:
- Fuel costs: Driving to the rental yard and back adds extra kilometers.
- Damage waivers: Extra insurance fees per hire.
- Late fees: Stuck in traffic? That will cost you extra.
Cost Calculation Example
Let’s compare a standard box trailer scenario.
- Scenario: You use a trailer 6 times a year (weekend camping, garden waste, moving oversized items).
- Average Rental Cost: $80 per day x 6 days = $480 per year.
The 3-Year Breakdown:
- Renting:
480x3years=∗∗480x3years=∗∗1,440** (Money that is gone forever). - Buying: You purchase a high-quality trailer for approx $2,000 – $3,000.
- Maintenance costs are minimal (mostly grease and checking tires).
- Resale Value: After 3 years, a well-kept trailer can often be sold for 60-70% of its original price.
The Verdict: The Break-Even Point
If you buy a trailer, you own an asset. If you sell that trailer after 3 years for $1,500, your “net cost” of ownership was only roughly
1000 for three years of unlimited usage.
Compared to renting ($1,440 cost), buying puts you ahead financially.
Conclusion
Stop paying off someone else’s asset. Invest in your own transportation solution. Browse our affordable range of box trailers and galvanized trailers at Trailers Star.