When it comes to purchasing an enclosed trailer, the decision can feel overwhelming. You’re looking for something reliable, sturdy, and worth every penny you spend. I’ve been down this road myself, and today, I’m sharing my thoughts on Wells Cargo trailers—a name you’ve probably come across in your research.
While this brand might initially seem like a solid choice, let me save you some trouble by explaining why it might not live up to the hype.
My Experience With Enclosed Trailers
Purchasing an enclosed trailer was one of those decisions I thought I had thoroughly planned for, but reality had a few surprises waiting for me. At first, I was drawn to the idea of owning a trailer for the convenience and flexibility it offered.
Whether it was for moving furniture, transporting equipment, or even helping friends out with their logistics, the promise of an all-weather, secure space seemed too good to pass up.
But let me tell you—the journey wasn’t as smooth as I had hoped.
When I first started my search, I wasn’t sure what to look for.
The sheer variety of brands, sizes, and configurations felt overwhelming. I’d read about Wells Cargo, and their reputation seemed solid—at least on paper.
Their trailers looked impressive: sleek aluminum exteriors, decent payload capacities, and a range of options for various needs. So, I thought, why not give it a shot?
After purchasing my Wells Cargo trailer, the honeymoon phase was short-lived. The first issue I noticed was the lighting. For the price I paid, I expected better visibility. The trailer came with only a few LED lights, which barely sufficed for nighttime operations.
It felt like such a basic thing that should have been standard. Then came the problems with the door seals. During a rainy spell, I discovered leaks around the edges that left my cargo damp. Not what you’d expect from a premium product.
The real frustration, however, came when I reached out for warranty support. Let’s just say it was less than stellar. Every interaction felt like pulling teeth, and the solutions offered were often makeshift fixes rather than proper repairs.
After multiple trips to the service center, I began to question whether I’d made the right choice.
Looking back, I realized the importance of thorough research and hearing from other users before making such an investment.
While my Wells Cargo trailer did serve its purpose, the hiccups along the way made me wish I’d explored other options more seriously. It’s a lesson learned the hard way, but one I hope others can avoid.
Pros of Wells Cargo Trailers
Let’s start with the positives. Despite some glaring issues, Wells Cargo trailers aren’t without their merits:
- Variety of Options: Wells Cargo offers a wide range of trailer models, from small utility trailers to large car haulers. This variety makes it easy to find something that fits your basic needs.
- Aesthetically Pleasing Designs: Many of their trailers feature sleek, modern designs that stand out from the competition. If looks matter to you, Wells Cargo trailers might catch your eye.
- Reasonable Payload Capacity: Depending on the model, Wells Cargo trailers can handle a decent amount of weight, which is critical for heavy-duty users.
- Aluminum Exterior: Their aluminum-clad exteriors resist rust better than some competitors, which is a big plus if you’re operating in a wet or humid environment.
Cons of Wells Cargo Trailers
Unfortunately, the drawbacks outweigh the benefits, and these aren’t minor inconveniences—they’re serious red flags.
- Poor Customer Service: One of the most significant issues is their after-sales support. Many customers report unhelpful warranty service, with repairs often exacerbating existing problems rather than solving them. A trailer is a long-term investment, and poor service can be a dealbreaker.
- Subpar Build Quality: Despite their reputation, the build quality of Wells Cargo trailers leaves much to be desired. Issues like misaligned frames, leaking doors, and inadequate seals have been reported.
- Insufficient Lighting: A common complaint among owners is the lack of adequate LED lighting. For the price Wells Cargo charges, this oversight feels unacceptable.
- High Cost: Wells Cargo trailers are not budget-friendly. If you’re spending over $20,000, you expect top-tier quality—something that’s not always delivered.
- Warranty Problems: Their so-called “6 Years and Never Look Back Warranty” has been called out by multiple customers as misleading. Many repairs are either denied or poorly executed, leaving owners frustrated.
Tips For Wells Cargo Trailers (or Any Enclosed Trailer)
If you already own a Wells Cargo trailer or any enclosed trailer, proper maintenance can go a long way in avoiding major headaches. Here are some tips:
- Inspect Seals and Doors Regularly: Check for leaks around doors and seals. A small crack can lead to significant damage if left unaddressed.
- Grease Moving Parts: Ensure that all hinges, latches, and moving parts are greased regularly to prevent rust and wear.
- Clean the Exterior: Washing your trailer after use, especially in salty or muddy conditions, helps prevent corrosion.
- Check Tire Pressure: Overlooked tires are a leading cause of trailer failures. Regularly inspect and inflate them to the recommended pressure.
- Upgrade the Lighting: If your Wells Cargo trailer has insufficient lighting, consider adding aftermarket LED lights for better visibility and safety.
Comparing Wells Cargo With Other Trailer Brands
Now, let’s compare Wells Cargo with some of the top competitors in the market to give you a better idea of where it stands:
- Wells Cargo Vs. ALCOM Trailers
When comparing Wells Cargo to ALCOM Trailers, one of the first things that stands out is ALCOM’s focus on lightweight, high-performance designs.
ALCOM specializes in aluminum trailers that are not only resistant to rust but also significantly lighter than many steel-based alternatives like Wells Cargo.
This weight advantage translates to easier towing and better fuel efficiency.
Wells Cargo trailers, on the other hand, tend to have sturdier builds but at the cost of added weight.
ALCOM also offers more customization options for those who need tailored solutions, whereas Wells Cargo’s customization feels limited.
In terms of customer satisfaction, ALCOM generally scores higher due to fewer reported issues and better warranty support. While Wells Cargo struggles with quality control and service, ALCOM excels in providing durable, well-crafted products that often justify their higher price tag.
- Wells Cargo Vs. PJ Trailers
PJ Trailers focuses heavily on utility and flatbed trailers, but their enclosed trailer options still manage to rival Wells Cargo. One notable difference is the build quality.
PJ Trailers often incorporates heavy-duty components that stand up to rugged use, making them a favorite among professionals who need reliable equipment for daily tasks.
Wells Cargo trailers, while functional, are frequently criticized for build inconsistencies and issues like leaking doors and misaligned frames.
PJ Trailers also offers a broader range of sizes and styles, catering to specific needs like car hauling or equipment transport.
Another key difference lies in after-sales support; PJ Trailers’ customer service and warranty processes are often regarded as more reliable and straightforward compared to Wells Cargo’s convoluted system. For those who prioritize durability and service, PJ Trailers often comes out ahead.
- Wells Cargo Vs. Haulmark Trailers
Haulmark and Wells Cargo are often compared because they target similar markets and offer a variety of enclosed trailer models.
However, Haulmark generally edges out Wells Cargo when it comes to quality and customer satisfaction.
Haulmark trailers are praised for their robust construction and attention to detail, reducing the likelihood of problems like misaligned doors or leaks—issues that frequently plague Wells Cargo owners.
Haulmark also offers a more comprehensive range of sizes and configurations, catering to both budget-conscious buyers and those looking for premium features.
In terms of warranty, Haulmark’s coverage is often considered more dependable, with fewer complaints about denied claims or inadequate repairs. While Wells Cargo has its strengths, Haulmark’s consistent performance and reputation make it a more reliable choice for most buyers.
Should You Buy A Wells Cargo Trailer?
After analyzing the pros, cons, and competition, my recommendation is to explore other brands first. While Wells Cargo offers some appealing features, the issues with quality control, customer service, and high costs are hard to ignore.
When investing in a trailer, reliability and support should be your top priorities, and Wells Cargo doesn’t consistently deliver in these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The top brands for enclosed trailers include Haulmark, Pace American, Carry-On, Look Trailers, and Interstate Trailers. These brands are known for their build quality, reliability, and customer support.
Wells Cargo is owned by the American Trailer Works (ATW) group, which is one of the largest manufacturers of trailers in North America.
With proper maintenance, an enclosed trailer can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and preventive care are key to extending its lifespan.
The best time to buy a cargo trailer is during the off-season, typically in late fall or winter. Dealers are more likely to offer discounts during these periods to clear out inventory.
Final Thoughts
Buying a trailer is no small decision, and while Wells Cargo may seem like a contender, its drawbacks make it difficult to recommend. Instead, I encourage you to look into brands like Haulmark, Pace American, or Look Trailers—companies that consistently deliver on quality and customer satisfaction.
Remember, a trailer is an investment, and it’s worth doing your homework to ensure you get the best value for your money.
