Anatomy of a cargo trailer
- Canadian Trailer Company

- Jan 12
- 3 min read
Ever wonder what makes one of our V-Nose Cargo Trailers so special? The difference is in the details. Take a deeper look at how our trailers compare...

Our cargo trailers, made in Canada, are designed to endure our distinct climate, guaranteeing durability for many years. Understanding the cargo trailer anatomy is essential to appreciate the quality and craftsmanship that goes into each unit.
We utilize superior materials and stronger construction techniques in our cargo trailer design compared to our competitors, allowing you to transport loads confidently, regardless of the task or weather conditions. The anatomy of our cargo trailers includes reinforced frames, weather-resistant exteriors, and versatile interior layouts to meet all your hauling needs.
16” O/C Square Tubing on roof, walls and Floor
Our frames are constructed with structural supports spaced 16 inches apart on the roof, walls, and floor. This design is essential to guarantee that the cargo trailer remains resilient, robust, and long-lasting. Given the severe nature of Canadian winters, we aim for our trailers to endure harsh conditions and heavy snow loads. Therefore, our standard wall, floor, and roof tubes are 1/8 inch thick and measure 1.25 by 1.25 inches.
Other manufacturers build their frames with 24” o/c, which causes the aluminum cladding to bend in between the supports, causing a wave effect down the sides and roof of the trailer. With the structural stability of the trailer being compromised the frame itself will be less durable and prone to defects.
One-piece Aluminum Roof
We have a one-piece roof that is two-way taped to the roof bars and walls. Trim is added to the exterior and screwed with stainless steel screws with rubber gaskets.
With this roofing system, the roof does not flutter in the wind, preventing leaks.
Also available is our exclusive Translucent Roof. A one-piece fiberglass roof system that allows a substantial amount of light into the interior of your trailer, reducing the need for interior lights.
Seamless Exterior Cladding
Starting in 2025, all our trailers will feature our warp-resistant Polycor AP Cladding as a standard inclusion*. This thicker composite material is specifically designed to prevent the "oil canning" effect caused by temperature fluctuations as aluminum expands and contracts over time. Additionally, its polyester paint coating can be easily cleaned using regular household cleaning products.
*Composite cladding is not available in yellow or pewter.
Grade 70 Safety Chain
When it comes to safety, we take things very seriously. We only use Grade 70 Safety chains on our trailers. It is always attached to the frame of the trailer, never the coupler, to prevent the trailer from detaching from the tow vehicle in the case of an emergency.
At Canadian Trailer Company, we also add two bolts on either side of the coupler to better secure the coupler to the frame.
Checker Plate Trim
All of our exterior trim is sheared, put in a brake, shaped to size and installed in-house to fit the exact measurements of our cargo trailers. This ensures a perfect fit every time.
All of our exterior trim is made from tread plate.
Exterior LED Lighting
We use all LED lights on the exterior of our cargo trailers. LED lights are not only brighter and last far longer than incandescent lights.
Radial Tires
We only use top brand radial tires on our cargo trailers. Radial tires are superior to bias ply tires in many ways. Radial tires feature better fuel economy, less vibration, a softer ride, and extended life due to less heat being generated by the tire.
We only use a trailer rated tire that is specially made for cargo trailers.
Polished Aluminum Fenders
Unlike many of our competitors, we attach our fenders to the trailer body and seal all seams with caulk, preventing road grime and salt from coming into contact with the trailer body.
Ladder, Roof Rack, 8000 lb Side Jack, Bar Lock, Chrome Stripes etc.
We provide fully customizable cargo trailer options. Our standard choices and upgrades can be found on our website and are extensively featured on our social media pages. If you have a unique project in mind, we are more than happy to discuss alternative customization options. Alternatively, you can request a free quote online here.




