How Long Is A Pontoon Boat Trailer In 2023?

Reviewed By Boatsbuilding Expert

Pontoon boats are usually bought with a trailer and ready to go. But what happens when you can’t find anyone to help you load the boat?

You need your loading system! How do you buy a pontoon boat trailer? Where do you find one? Are they expensive?

What should you look for in the right one for your needs?

I will discuss everything you need to know about choosing the right pontoon boat trailer here.

It is not as complicated as it might seem at first glance, but there are some essential things to remember before purchasing one.

Things To Know Before Buying A Pontoon Boat Trailer

Before shopping for a pontoon boat trailer, you should know a few things.

First, it is essential to understand the difference between a pontoon trailer and an inland trailer. Pontoon boat trailers are specially designed to carry a pontoon boat.

Things To Know Before Buying A Pontoon Boat Trailer

A standard trailer is not designed to carry a watercraft and, therefore, is unsuitable for this purpose. Pontoon boat trailers are designed for water use.

They are often made of corrosion-resistant materials. The bearings are protected, and the axle is outfitted with fenders to prevent damage from debris in the water.

They also often have a locking mechanism to prevent theft.

An inland trailer has an open bed, often with a tarp to cover the load. It is designed for other uses, such as hauling cars, construction equipment, and other non-watercraft items.

What To Look For In A Pontoon Boat Trailer?

Before you even begin shopping for a pontoon boat trailer, you will want to decide what features you need.

What To Look For In A Pontoon Boat Trailer?

Some things to take into consideration include: How big is your boat? ‘

How high is the deck of the trailer? How much weight will you be hauling? How rough is the terrain you will be driving over?

Pontoon Boat Trailer Weight Capacity – How much weight can the trailer handle? If you plan on hauling a heavy boat, you’ll want to ensure the trailer is designed to handle that much weight. You don’t want to put undue stress on your vehicle or risk damaging the trailer because the weight is too much.
Pontoon Boat Trailer Length – How long is the trailer? You don’t want to get a trailer too short for your particular boat. If you have a large, heavy boat, you may want a more extended trailer to ensure enough clearance to get it on and off the road.
Pontoon Boat Trailer Deck Height – How high is the deck on the trailer? How high does the deck need to be to clear your boat?

You don’t want to get a trailer that’s too short for your boat and have to lift it onto the trailer.

Finding the Right Pontoon Boat Trailer for You

Once you’ve decided on the features you need, you can start looking for a pontoon boat trailer.

There are ways to go about this. You can check out local classified ads to find a pontoon boat trailer. You can also check out websites designed for buying and selling used trailers.

Finding the Right Pontoon Boat Trailer for You

Another option is to go to a pontoon boat dealership and see what they have available.

It is often the easiest route, but you may have to pay more than you would for a used trailer. Whatever method you choose, inspect the trailer before purchasing it.

Look it over carefully from top to bottom. Ensure all the components are in good condition and not likely to break down soon.

How To Install A Pontoon Boat Trailer?

Installing a pontoon boat trailer is like installing any other type of trailer. You’ll first want to ensure enough clearance for the trailer to get on and off the road.

How To Install A Pontoon Boat Trailer?

Next, you will want to make sure you have a place to park and be able to attach the trailer. You should also get the appropriate permits and insurance if your state requires it.

When attaching the trailer to your vehicle, you want to ensure the connection is sturdy and safe. You don’t want a chance that the trailer could come loose while you’re driving and cause damage to you or others on the road.

Are Boat Ramps Required For Loading?

Are Boat Ramps Required For Loading?

Loading a boat onto a trailer is a two-person job. It would help if you had a ramp to get the boat onto the trailer.

You can either make your ramp or buy one from a store. Even store-bought ramps are easy to make, saving you a lot of time and effort. You have a few options when loading your boat on the trailer.

You can put the boat on the trailer first and then drive it onto the trailer. This is called drive-on loading and is the most convenient option. You can also put the boat on the trailer and drive it onto a trailer on the ground. This is called trailer loading.

Conclusion

A pontoon boat trailer isn’t an item you need to buy often. You will likely use it for years to come.

With that in mind, it is essential to ensure you buy the right one for your needs. Make sure you consider all your requirements before purchasing a pontoon boat trailer.

Consider your boat length, deck height, and weight when deciding.

You don’t want to end up with a trailer that isn’t long enough, too low, or too heavy for your vehicle.

FAQS

Should you buy new or used?

You’ll need to decide according to your needs and budget. If you have a specific model in mind, you may need to buy a new one. If you are willing to be flexible with the model, you can buy used and save yourself some money. If you go the used route, you will want to inspect it for damage and wear and tear thoroughly. You don’t want to get stuck with a lemon that isn’t road-worthy.

How long is a 22-pontoon boat trailer?

A 22-foot pontoon boat trailer typically measures around 23 feet long. It includes the tongue, the part of the trailer that extends out from the front of the mainframe. The length of the trailer also depends on the specific model and make. Some campers may be a few feet long or shorter than others.
Fred Apstein
Fred Apstein is a man of many talents. He studied at Sustainable Community Development and Royal Roads University, but what he loves to do is sailing, building boats, cooking seafood, and picking up the pieces when things go wrong! He's been in business for over 40 years with no refrigeration on his sailboats - that means food drying and pickling became necessary skills