Jet Ski Trailers And Cost 9 Things You Need To Know

Jet skiing is an exhilarating water sport that allows you to zip across waves at high speeds. However, transporting your jet ski to your favorite body of water requires a good trailer.

Choosing the right jet ski trailer is important for protecting your watercraft during transport and providing easy load and unloading.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about jet ski trailers and costs. You’ll learn about different trailer types, features to look for, and what impacts the price. 

Read on to make an informed decision when selecting a jet ski trailer.

Guide to Jet Ski Trailers: Types, Sizes, Materials, Features, Costs, and More

When choosing a jet ski trailer, consider types, capacity, materials, features, costs, and where to buy, as well as options for financing, registering, and insuring your valuable watercraft carrier.

1. Types of Jet Ski Trailers

There are several types of trailers designed specifically for hauling jet skis. The most common options include:

Bumper Pull Trailers

These are the most popular and affordable jet ski trailers. Bumper pull trailers attach to the hitch receiver on your vehicle. They are easy to maneuver and park. Most accommodate 1-3 jet skis.

Fifth Wheel Trailers

Fifth wheel jet ski trailers connect to a mount in the bed of pickup trucks. They offer more stability and flexibility for hauling multiple jet skis. However, fifth wheel trailers are more expensive.

Gooseneck Trailers

Gooseneck trailers also attach to your truck bed via a ball hitch. They can haul 3 or more jet skis with excellent weight distribution. But gooseneck trailers are usually overkill for just jet skis.

Bumper pull trailers provide the best versatility and value for most jet ski owners.

2. Trailer Length and Capacity

Jet ski trailer length ranges from 8 feet up to 18+ feet. The trailer length you need depends on how many jet skis you want to haul. Here are the most common trailer capacities:

Single Jet Ski Trailers

An 8 to 12 foot trailer can accommodate one jet ski comfortably. Single jet ski trailers feature a center rail design to cradle and support the hull. They are highly maneuverable and easy to store.

Double Jet Ski Trailers

For two jet skis, look for a 12 to 16 foot double trailer. They allow you to transport a pair of jet skis conveniently. Some even have removable center rails to convert from a double to single trailer.

Triple Jet Ski Trailers

Triple jet ski trailers typically start around 16 feet. They can haul 3 jet skis securely using individual rails for each ski. These trailers provide great flexibility if you own multiple watercraft.

Consider how many jet skis you plan to trailer now and in the future when selecting a trailer length.

3. Trailer Materials and Construction

Jet ski trailers come in a range of durable materials and sturdy construction:

Aluminum Trailers

Aluminum trailers are rustproof and lightweight. However, pure aluminum is soft and dents easily. Many aluminum trailers use thicker gauges or alloys to improve durability.

Galvanized Steel Trailers

Steel offers excellent strength at a lower cost but can rust over time. Galvanized steel trailers are dipped in zinc to protect against corrosion and rust.

Stainless Steel Trailers

For the ultimate in durability, stainless steel trailers withstand exposure exceptionally well. They offer a premium rust-free solution.

Heavy Duty Construction

Look for double walled sides, reinforced tube steel frames, diamond plate flooring, sealed wiring harnesses, and heavy duty wheels/axles. These features provide added strength and longevity.

Aluminum and galvanized steel trailers provide the best combination of durability and affordability for most uses.

4. Jet Ski Trailer Features and Options

Beyond the basics, there are several beneficial features and accessories to consider:

Tie-Down Points

Multiple tie-down points allow securing your jet ski tightly for a rattle-free ride. Ratchet straps are preferred for easy tensioning.

Swing Tongue

A swing-up tongue lets you tilt the trailer when parked. This allows easy access to the back of your vehicle.

Torsion Axles

Independent torsion axle suspensions improve towing stability on uneven terrain.

Brakes

Electric or surge brakes provide extra stopping power and control for heavier loads.

LED Lights

LED lights have excellent visibility, with less current draw and longer life than incandescent bulbs.

Spare Tire

Carrying a full-size spare tire provides peace of mind in the event of a flat.

Steps

Folding rear steps allow safe and convenient access for loading/unloading.

Torsion axles, electric brakes, LED lights, and spare tires offer excellent upgrades for safer, easier trailering.

5. Estimating Jet Ski Trailer Costs

The cost of jet ski trailers ranges widely from under $1,000 for basic single trailers to over $5,000 for premium multi-ski trailers with all the bells and whistles. Here are some averages to help estimate potential pricing:

• Entry-Level Trailers – $800-$1500
  Basic single trailers with painted steel frames and limited features.
• Mid-Range Trailers – $1500-$3000
  Double aluminum trailers with good construction and common options like lights and torsion axles.
• High-End Trailers – $3000-$5000+
  Top-of-the-line brands with stainless steel/aluminum, disc brakes, extra capacity and versatile accessories for multi-watercraft hauling.

Expect to spend $1500-$2500 for a well-equipped aluminum double jet ski trailer suitable for most needs.

6. New vs Used Jet Ski Trailers

The choice between new or used jet ski trailers comes down to:

Buying New

• Full warranty and manufacturer support
• New trailer tires and components
• Ability to customize features
• No wear or damage issues

Buying Used

• Significant cost savings over new
• Potential to find barely-used deals
• Have it inspected for any problems
• May need tires and some repairs

If buying used, inspect tires, frame, lights, and moving parts closely. Make sure you can get replacement parts if needed.

7. Where to Shop for Jet Ski Trailers

You can find jet ski trailers at:

Local Dealers

• Specialize in boat & watercraft trailers
• Allow in-person inspection
• May have limited inventory

Online Retailers

• Wider selection of brands & models
• Ships to your door
• Can’t evaluate condition in-person

Classified Listings

• Used trailers at lower prices
• Individual sellers
• Need to thoroughly vet condition

Check local marine dealers and online retailers first for the best selection and pricing on new and used trailers.

8. Financing Your Jet Ski Trailer

If you need financing for your jet ski trailer purchase, you have a few options:

Cash

• Avoid interest and fees
• May find used deals
• Large upfront payment

Dealer Financing

• Often 0% interest offers
• Apply and secure financing quickly
• Limited timeline for no interest

Bank/Credit Union Loans

• May offer lower rates than dealers
• Slightly more paperwork
• Get approved before shopping

Dealer financing often provides the most convenient option for trailer loans. But shop around for the best rates.

9. Registering and Insuring Your Trailer

Don’t forget to:

• Register the trailer in your name and state to make it legal. Most states charge a small registration fee.
• Insuring the trailer provides liability protection and cover theft or damage. Add to existing policies or get standalone insurance.
• Attach the license plate and rear lights according to your state’s specifications.

Properly registering and insuring the trailer protects you and makes it road ready.

FAQs

Learn essential information about jet ski trailers, from the ideal size for one jet ski to top brands and the cost of used trailers. Discover your towing common questions and answers.

What Size Trailer Do I Need For 1 Jet Ski?

For one jet ski, a single trailer of 8 to 12 feet is ideal. This provides enough room to fit the hull comfortably and maneuver easily.

How Much Does A Used Jet Ski Trailer Cost?

You can find good used jet ski trailers for $800-$2000 typically. Well-maintained used single and double trailers with decent features fall into this range.

What Is The Best Jet Ski Trailer Brand?

Top jet ski trailer brands include Karavan, Shoreland’r, Magic Tilt, Continental, and EZ Loader. They are known for quality construction and durability.

Do I Need Brakes On A Jet Ski Trailer?

Brakes are not legally required on jet ski trailers in most states. However, electric or surge brakes improve safety and control when hauling heavier loads.

Can I Pull A Jet Ski Trailer With A Car?

Jet ski trailers can potentially be pulled by cars or SUVs with the proper towing capacity and hitch setup. But a truck provides the best power and stability.

Conclusion

Whether hauling one jet ski or a fleet, choosing the right trailer is crucial. Evaluate your hauling needs, budget, options, and features. 

Bumper pull trailers from reputable brands provide the best versatility for most jet ski owners. 

With good construction and the proper setup, a jet ski trailer allows you to enjoy your watercraft for years to come.