I was reading the comments on previous post about transportation, and have a question. I have a 05 ford F150 with 60,000 miles. And a 6x10 box trailer in excellent cond. I use them with my furniture business but plan to use them for shows also. They fit everything I need plus plenty of room to spare, but was wondering would it be difficult to manuvour around for loading and unloading at shows. Anyone use a trailer? Please give some advice?
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Thanks for the advice. I was considering purchasing a van but I could get more use out of my truck. My family would be traveling with me also ( two boys and wife, possibly mother in law) to watch boys. My truck is a crew cab and can carry all of us but the bed is small. That's why I use the trailer. Everyone loves traveling so it's like a fam. Vac.
I pull a 5X8. I usually don't have a problem with the trailer. The biggest issue is the length (vehicle and trailer). You have to be considerate to other artists. I usually wait until I'm completely broken down before I bring the trailer in for load up. Many artists fight for the early spots, wanting to get their vehicles there first thing... often before the show even closes, it's silly. I find that if I wait until I'm completely broken down, I'm usually able to bring the trailer in with no problem and load up and get out fast. There are a couple shows where this is challenging (Penrod), but then those shows are challenging to all vehicles. You should become good at backing up though, things can get tight.
I use a trailer and am completely unable to back in! I somehow lack that vital skill. I always make sure that I have an exit. Worst case I have unhooked my trailer and moved it physically with the dolly that I have for it. Trailers are great. They can offer a place to sleep if you need, you can leave your stuff in there and not have to load and unload at home, they are able to be secured.
Get in as early as possible so you don't block your neighbors from setting up. Plan on possibly dollying in. And also plan on possibly being on of the last out.
I drove a large cube van for twelve years and never got in anyone's way because I went for the close parking space before dollying in and out.
Lots of people use trailers. You just have to scope out your venue to know how to manuever around. Some places are easier then others. Parks can be hard to get around and you might have to dolly in. Just go to the show with an open mind and figure out your best course. Always ask where to drop(park) the trailer before you unhook. Break down is a whole another situation, again each venue is different.
Replies
I drove a large cube van for twelve years and never got in anyone's way because I went for the close parking space before dollying in and out.
Larry Berman
Digital Jury Services
http://BermanGraphics.com
412-401-8100
Good Luck,
Deb