What Size Utility Trailer Do You Actually Need in South Mississippi

Most people either buy too much trailer or not enough. A 16-foot tandem axle sounds great until you realize you're hauling a single zero turn and some hand tools across Covington County. And a 4x6 looks fine until you try to load a full pallet of fence posts.

Here's how to figure out what you actually need without overspending.

Start With What You're Hauling

Forget the trailer specs for a second. Write down what goes on the trailer on a typical day:

• One mower + trimmer + blower — A 5x10 single axle handles this all day. That's what most solo landscaping crews running routes between Collins and Laurel are pulling.
• Two mowers + a full equipment rack — You're looking at 6x12 or 7x14 tandem axle. Anything less and you're stacking gear dangerously.
• Farm use — hay bales, fence supplies, feed — A 5x10 or 6x10 works for most chores. If you're moving round bales, go 6x12 minimum.
• ATVs or side-by-sides — Measure your machine. Most UTVs need at least a 5x10, and a full-size side-by-side wants a 6x12.

Single Axle vs. Tandem Axle

Single axle (like our 5x10 utility trailer) is easier to maneuver, lighter on fuel, and cheaper. If your total load stays under 2,500 lbs, single axle is the move.

Tandem axle is what you want when weight gets serious — 3,000 lbs and up. It's also more stable on Highway 49 at speed and gives you a spare tire's worth of safety margin. Crews running jobs from Seminary to Hattiesburg appreciate that peace of mind on longer hauls.

Don't Forget the Tongue Weight

This trips people up more than anything. Your truck might be rated for 7,000 lbs towing, but if your tongue weight ratio is off, the trailer sways and your rear axle takes a beating. Rule of thumb: tongue weight should be 10-15% of total loaded trailer weight.

If you're not sure how your truck handles a trailer, bring it by and we'll help you figure it out. We see trucks from all over Jones County and Forrest County — there's no single right answer without seeing the actual setup.

What We Carry

Right now we've got a 2026 5x10 utility trailer on the lot — the most popular size for homeowners and solo crews in the Pine Belt. It's the sweet spot between capability and price.

If you need something bigger or want to talk through what makes sense for your situation, give us a call or stop by. We're at 3069 Highway 49 in Collins.

When a Trailer Pays for Itself

If you're renting a trailer more than twice a year, you're losing money. If you're making two truck-bed trips when one trailer trip would do it, you're burning fuel and time. Guys running landscaping routes in Magee, Mendenhall, and Simpson County figured this out a long time ago — a utility trailer isn't an expense, it's a tool that earns.

For parts, service, and mower questions, check out our full Ferris mower catalog or our service department. We handle everything from zero turns to trailer accessories right here in Collins.

Dykes Motors Power Equipment 3069 Hwy 49, Collins, MS 39428 (601) 641-5475 | dykespower.com