How to Store an Enclosed Trailer
Proper storage can help protect an enclosed trailer from moisture, corrosion, tire damage, battery failure and premature wear.
Whether you are putting your trailer away for a few weeks or an entire season, a little preparation can make it easier to return the trailer to service safely.
The most important steps are to clean and dry the trailer, inspect for leaks, protect the electrical system, check the tires, maintain the battery and perform a complete inspection before towing it again.
Quick Answer: How Should an Enclosed Trailer Be Stored?
Before storing an enclosed trailer:
- Remove trash, food and moisture
- Clean and dry the interior
- Inspect the roof, seams, doors and windows
- Check the tire pressure and tire condition
- Park on a firm, well-drained surface
- Secure the trailer with wheel chocks
- Protect the electrical plug from moisture
- Maintain or disconnect the battery as appropriate
- Secure all doors, ramps and compartments
- Inspect the trailer periodically
- Complete a full pre-trip inspection before towing again
Pro Tip
Do not park a trailer and forget about it. Small leaks, low tires, pests and battery problems can become expensive repairs when a trailer sits unattended for an extended period.
Why Proper Trailer Storage Matters
An enclosed trailer may appear protected when its doors are closed, but it is still exposed to changing temperatures, moisture, sunlight, dirt and pests.
Improper storage may contribute to:
- Roof or seam leaks
- Mold and mildew
- Interior water damage
- Rust and corrosion
- Battery discharge
- Tire deterioration
- Wiring and connector problems
- Pest damage
- Sticking doors, hinges and locks
- Damage to cabinets, flooring and finished interiors
Trailers stored outside in hot, humid or coastal environments require special attention. Moisture and salt exposure can accelerate corrosion and make regular inspections even more important.
1. Clean the Trailer Before Storage
Begin by removing everything that does not need to remain inside the trailer.
Remove:
- Trash
- Food and drinks
- Damp clothing or equipment
- Cardboard that may absorb moisture
- Chemicals that could leak
- Unsecured tools
- Perishable cargo
- Materials that could attract insects or rodents
Sweep or vacuum the floor and clean any dirt, grease or spills. If the interior is washed, allow it to dry completely before closing the trailer.
Pay special attention to corners, cabinets, storage compartments and areas underneath equipment.
Pro Tip
Never store a trailer with a wet floor, damp carpet or water trapped underneath equipment. Closing moisture inside the trailer can encourage odors, mold and interior damage.
2. Inspect for Water Leaks
Water intrusion can damage wood flooring, wall panels, insulation, cabinets and electrical components.
Before storage, inspect:
- Roof seams
- Roof vents
- Air-conditioning openings
- Windows
- Side doors
- Rear ramp or barn doors
- Exterior trim
- Marker lights
- Screws and fasteners
- Wall and roof penetrations
- Generator compartments
- Interior corners and ceiling panels
Look for water stains, discoloration, soft areas, swollen wood, loose sealant or damp insulation.
Any suspected leak should be repaired using materials and procedures approved for the trailer’s construction.
Important
Do not assume a new-looking trailer is leak-free. Roof sealants and exterior seams should be inspected regularly throughout the trailer’s life.
3. Control Moisture Inside the Trailer
Moisture can enter through a leak, condensation or wet cargo. Temperature changes may also cause condensation to form inside a closed trailer.
Before storage:
- Make sure the floor and walls are dry
- Dry carpet and rubber flooring completely
- Remove wet equipment
- Empty sinks, water tanks and drain lines when applicable
- Check cabinets and storage compartments
- Follow equipment instructions for ventilation
- Use an appropriate moisture-control product when needed
A finished race trailer, concession trailer or work trailer may contain insulation, cabinets, appliances and electrical equipment that can be damaged by moisture.
Avoid sealing a wet trailer beneath a non-breathable tarp. A cover that traps moisture may create more problems than it prevents.
4. Choose the Right Storage Location
Whenever possible, store the trailer on a firm, level and well-drained surface.
Good storage surfaces include:
- Concrete
- Asphalt
- Compacted gravel
- Another stable surface that drains properly
Avoid leaving the trailer for long periods on:
- Soft soil
- Mud
- Standing water
- Tall grass
- Uneven ground
- Areas underneath weak or damaged tree limbs
A sheltered storage location may provide additional protection from sunlight, falling debris, hail and heavy weather.
Make sure the trailer is not positioned where roof drainage, sprinklers or runoff will repeatedly soak the same area.
5. Chock and Secure the Trailer
Never rely on the tongue jack alone to prevent trailer movement.
Use properly sized wheel chocks and place them securely against the tires. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for stabilizer jacks and leveling equipment.
Before leaving the trailer:
- Chock the wheels
- Verify the tongue jack is stable
- Secure the coupler
- Lock the doors and compartments
- Secure the rear ramp or barn doors
- Store safety chains so they are not lying in water or dirt
- Use appropriate theft-deterrent devices
Common trailer security options include:
- Coupler locks
- Wheel locks
- Door locks
- Locking hitch pins
- Security lighting
- Cameras or monitored storage
No lock can guarantee theft prevention, but using more than one layer of security can make a trailer more difficult to steal.
6. Check and Protect the Tires
Trailer tires can lose pressure while the trailer is sitting. Sunlight, moisture, age and long periods in one position can also affect tire condition.
Before storage:
- Inflate the tires according to the trailer or tire manufacturer’s specifications
- Inspect for cracks, cuts, bulges and exposed cords
- Check the tread condition
- Look for uneven wear
- Verify valve stems are not cracked or damaged
- Check the spare tire
- Remove stones or debris lodged in the tread
When storing outside, trailer tire covers can help reduce direct exposure to sunlight.
Do not place the tires on soft soil or in standing water. If boards or pads are used beneath the tires, they must be strong, stable and large enough to support the load safely.
Do not lift the trailer or leave it supported by jacks for long-term storage unless the trailer manufacturer specifically approves that procedure.
7. Protect the Battery
Many enclosed trailers have a battery for the breakaway system, interior lights, electric tongue jack, winch, hydraulic equipment or other accessories.
A battery can discharge while the trailer is in storage.
Depending on the trailer and battery system, storage preparation may include:
- Fully charging the battery
- Disconnecting accessories that create a power draw
- Using an approved battery maintainer
- Checking battery terminals for corrosion
- Cleaning and protecting the terminals
- Following the battery manufacturer’s storage instructions
Never assume the breakaway battery is ready simply because the trailer lights work. The breakaway system should be tested according to the trailer and component manufacturers’ instructions before towing.
Important
Batteries can produce hazardous gases and contain corrosive materials. Charge, maintain and store batteries only in an appropriate location and according to the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
8. Protect the Trailer Plug and Wiring
The trailer’s electrical connector should not be left dragging on the ground or exposed to standing water.
Before storage:
- Inspect the plug for damaged or corroded contacts
- Check the cable for cuts or worn insulation
- Keep the connector clean and dry
- Place the plug in a protective holder or cover
- Inspect visible wiring underneath the trailer
- Secure loose wiring away from sharp edges
- Check exterior lights for trapped moisture
Corrosion inside the electrical connector may cause lighting, brake or charging problems the next time the trailer is used.
Use only electrical protectants that are appropriate for the connector and approved by the component manufacturer.
9. Inspect Doors, Ramps and Hardware
Side doors, rear doors and ramp doors should close securely before storage.
Inspect:
- Door seals
- Hinges
- Latches
- Locks
- Ramp cables
- Ramp springs
- Holdbacks
- Weather stripping
- Transition flaps
- Door frames
- Exterior fasteners
Clean dirt and debris from door seals. Replace torn or damaged weather stripping before it allows water into the trailer.
Lubricate hinges, latches and locks with a product appropriate for the component. Avoid applying products that may damage painted surfaces, rubber seals or finished interiors.
Never attempt to adjust a ramp-door spring or cable system unless you are trained and equipped to do so. These components may be under significant tension.
10. Prepare Installed Equipment
Race trailers, concession trailers, contractor trailers and custom cargo trailers may contain equipment that needs separate storage preparation.
Examples include:
- Air conditioners
- Generators
- Refrigerators
- Water pumps
- Sinks and plumbing
- Winches
- Hydraulic systems
- Televisions
- Stereos
- Compressors
- Battery banks
- Inverters
- Cabinets and toolboxes
Follow the equipment manufacturer’s storage procedure for every installed component.
Fuel-powered equipment may require fuel treatment, draining or another specific procedure. Plumbing systems may need to be drained or winterized in freezing conditions.
Do not guess. Incorrect storage can damage equipment and may create a fire, electrical or environmental hazard.
Should You Cover an Enclosed Trailer?
A fitted trailer cover may help protect the exterior from sunlight, dirt and falling debris. However, the wrong cover can trap moisture, rub against the finish or damage exterior components.
If a cover is used:
- Choose one designed for outdoor vehicle or trailer storage
- Make sure it fits securely
- Avoid sharp contact points
- Use a breathable material
- Inspect the cover after strong winds
- Keep ventilation openings clear when required
- Do not cover a wet trailer
- Do not allow loose straps to damage the exterior
A loose plastic tarp is generally not the best long-term solution. Wind movement can rub against the trailer, while trapped moisture may contribute to staining, corrosion or mold.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Trailer Storage
Short-Term Storage
For storage lasting a few days or weeks:
- Clean the trailer
- Remove food and damp materials
- Check the tires
- Chock the wheels
- Secure the doors
- Protect the electrical plug
- Check the battery
- Inspect for leaks
Long-Term or Seasonal Storage
For storage lasting several months:
- Complete every short-term storage step
- Inspect the roof and exterior seams carefully
- Maintain or disconnect the battery as appropriate
- Protect the tires from extended sun exposure
- Prepare generators, plumbing and appliances
- Remove unnecessary cargo
- Add appropriate pest-prevention measures
- Inspect the trailer regularly
- Check for water, corrosion and low tires
- Perform a complete service inspection before returning to the road
Inspect the Trailer While It Is Stored
A stored trailer should be checked periodically.
Look for:
- Low or flat tires
- Water leaks
- Roof damage
- Standing water
- Pest activity
- Corrosion
- Damaged locks
- Loose covers
- Fallen limbs or storm damage
- Battery problems
- Vandalism or attempted theft
- Unusual odors inside the trailer
After severe weather, inspect the trailer as soon as it is safe to do so.
Pro Tip
Place a recurring reminder on your calendar to inspect the trailer. Regular inspections are especially important when the trailer is stored away from your home or business.
Common Trailer Storage Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Parking directly in mud or standing water
- Leaving food or trash inside
- Closing the trailer while the interior is wet
- Ignoring a small roof leak
- Leaving the electrical plug on the ground
- Allowing the battery to discharge completely
- Forgetting to check the spare tire
- Using stabilizer jacks as permanent structural supports
- Covering a wet trailer with a non-breathable tarp
- Leaving loose cargo inside
- Storing fuel or chemicals improperly
- Failing to inspect the trailer for several months
- Towing immediately after storage without a pre-trip inspection
Returning a Trailer to Service
Before towing a trailer that has been stored, perform a complete pre-trip inspection.
Check:
- Tire pressure
- Tire sidewalls and tread
- Wheel condition
- Lug-nut torque according to manufacturer specifications
- Wheel bearings
- Brakes
- Breakaway switch and battery
- Trailer plug
- Brake lights
- Turn signals
- Running lights
- Coupler
- Hitch ball
- Safety chains
- Tongue jack
- Doors and latches
- Ramp cables and springs
- Roof and exterior seams
- Cargo securement
- License plate and registration
- Overall trailer condition
Make sure all cargo is properly positioned and secured before towing.
If the trailer has been stored for a long period or if you find signs of damage, have it inspected by a qualified trailer service professional before returning it to the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an enclosed trailer be stored outside?
Yes. An enclosed trailer can be stored outside, but it should be parked on a firm, well-drained surface and inspected regularly. Protect the tires, electrical connector, battery, roof and exterior seams from prolonged exposure.
Should I cover my enclosed trailer?
A fitted, breathable cover designed for vehicle or trailer storage may provide additional protection. Avoid covering a wet trailer or using a loose tarp that can trap moisture and rub against the exterior.
Should I disconnect the trailer battery?
That depends on the trailer’s battery system and installed equipment. Follow the battery and trailer manufacturers’ instructions. The battery may need to be disconnected, periodically charged or connected to an approved maintainer.
Should trailer tires be lifted off the ground?
Do not lift or support a stored trailer with jacks unless the trailer manufacturer approves the procedure. Store the trailer on a stable surface, maintain the correct tire pressure and inspect the tires regularly.
How often should a stored trailer be checked?
Check the trailer periodically and after severe weather. The inspection should include the tires, roof, doors, locks, battery, wiring, interior moisture and signs of pests or corrosion.
Can I leave equipment inside my trailer?
Equipment may remain inside if it is properly secured and prepared for storage. Remove food, wet materials, leaking chemicals and unnecessary cargo. Follow the storage instructions for generators, appliances, batteries and fuel-powered equipment.
Do I need to inspect the trailer before towing it again?
Yes. Always complete a full pre-trip inspection after storage. Check the tires, wheels, brakes, lights, breakaway system, hitch, safety chains, doors and cargo before entering the roadway.
Protect Your Trailer Before and After the Sale
Choosing the right enclosed trailer is only the beginning. Proper maintenance and storage can help protect its appearance, equipment and long-term usefulness.
Southern Trailer Depot offers enclosed cargo trailers, race trailers, motorcycle trailers, contractor trailers, concession trailers and custom trailer builds for customers who need a trailer designed around the job.
Whether you need a basic cargo trailer or a fully finished custom build, our team can help you compare sizes, axle capacities, construction features and available upgrades. Read our cargo trailer buying guide or trailer maintenance guide for more, and see our financing options if you’re ready to buy.
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Call Southern Trailer Depot: 1-888-403-1902
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