Building Your Trailer:
Question: Why is it important to have a trailer built for my specific boat?
Answer: Matching a trailer to a boat is similar to matching a shoe to a foot. Considerations when building a trailer for a specific boat include axle placement for optimal tongue weight, proper bunk placement and cut to help center the boat and protect the hull. These factors will enhance your towing experience and prolong the life and wear of your trailer with minimal maintenance.
Question: Why would I want to purchase a trailer from East Coast Trailers when I can purchase directly from the trailer manufacturer?
Answer: At East Coast Trailers we sell the same trailers below the manufacturer's factory direct price. Most of our customers find that our price is well below that of a local dealer. In addition, we pride ourselves on customer service. We take the time to educate you on the available options and allow you to decide which options best suits your needs. The majority of our business is repeat customers or referrals from existing customers.
Question: How do you know which trailer will fit my boat?
Answer: We have the weights and dimension for the majority of boats produced. We may have to contact the boat manufacturer for additional information. If we are unable to get the required information from the boat manufacturer we have measurement templates we can email or fax you to get the measurements we need to build your trailer.
Question: What is the advantage of a bunk trailer vs a roller trailer?
Answer: A bunk trailer provides better support for the hull and typically requires less maintenance than a roller trailer. Some boat manufacturers will not honor the hull warranty if the boat is towed on a bunk trailer. In rare situations (extremely shallow ramps or tide fluctuations) a roller trailer might be the only solution.
Question: What is the advantage of aluminum construction vs galvanized or painted steel construction on a boat trailer?
Answer: Aluminum provides a higher level of corrosion resistance. Aluminum is also lighter than steel, reducing the overall weight you tow. However, aluminum trailers typically utilize some galvanized steel components. Galvanized steel components include axles, hubs, winch stand, and tongue depending on the trailer manufacturer.
Pricing:
Question: How can I get a price quote?
Answer: We prefer you email us at eastcoasttrailers@cfl.rr.com It is much easier for us to keep track of our correspondence via email.
Please provide the following information:
1. Your name
2. Year, make, model and the type of power (outboard, I/O or inboard, HP and number of engines) of the boat
3. Location (where you would like the trailer delivered if applicable and the state where you will register the trailer)
4. Other information (how you plan to use and where you will store the trailer when not in use)
Based on the information above we will provide you with a detailed price quote including the recommended options. You can always email us back and we will be more than happy to address any specific questions.
The Ordering Process:
Once you have determined the trailer and options you prefer we will put this information in Excel format (electronic) or Fax by line item for your approval. This way you can see exactly what you are ordering. After you verify everything is correct on the invoice and determine your method of payment (see payment below) we will place the order with the trailer manufacturer. We will then keep you informed of the build process and expected delivery date.
Payment:
Question: How do I pay for the trailer?
Answer: We require a deposit on trailers because they are built specifically for your boat. The amount of deposit required will vary depending on the cost of the trailer. We typically require a 25% deposit. The deposit can be made in the form of a personal check, bank certified check or money order depending on the time frame for delivery. We also except wire transfers. Final payment is due at the time of delivery in the form of a bank certified check. Due to the fact that we discount the trailers well below the manufacturer's factory direct price we can not accept credit cards (this saves you $$). If you take delivery of the trailer directly from the manufacturer you can make final payment with VISA or Master Card (you must have proper ID).
Shipping:
Question: How long will it take from the time of order to delivery?
Answer: Typically, delivery takes between 3-5 weeks from the time of order (depending on the location). At times we are able to deliver within 1-2 weeks. It really depends on our driver's schedules. The trailers are stacked and the higher capacity trailers are used to transport the lighter trailers.
Question: How do we offload the trailers from the stack?
Answer: In most cases delivery must take place at a facility with a fork lift or hoist. The exception is when you are the last trailer on the delivery schedule. Most marine facilities have a fork lift or hoist and can accomodate delivery. It is the responsibility of the customer to select the delivery location. We are not restricted to delivery at a marine facility. We can typically offload at any location with a fork lift.
Question: Can I take delivery of the trailer directly from the manufacturing facility?
Answer: Absolutely! If you order in advance we can easily coordinate a time when you can pick the trailer up directly from the trailer manufacturing facility.
Trailer Registration:
Question: How do I register the trailer?
Answer: The trailer manufacturers issue a MSO (Manufacturers Statement of Origin) and BOS (Bill of Sale) for each trailer. You will take the MSO & BOS to your local tag office to register the trailer (some states do not require trailers to be registered).
Question: When will I receive the MSO & BOS?
Answer: We can not release the MSO until full payment has been made. If final payment is made at the time of delivery the MSO will follow within 1-2 weeks. If final payment is made prior to delivery we can usually expedite the MSO and have it sent to you by the time the trailer arrives.
Question: I plan to pick up the trailer directly from the manufacturer. I would like to have the trailer registered and bring my tag in advance before I pick up the trailer. Can this be done?
Answer: As long as full payment is made in advance we can have the manufacturer release the MSO and send it to you in advance.
Warranty:
Question: What type of warranty comes with the trailer?
Answer: The warranty will vary depending on the trailer manufacturer. Most trailer manufacturers warranty the trailer for a period of 2 or 3 years. The warranty coverage is provided by and subject to the discretion of the manufacturer.