Trailer Optional Features to Consider Before You Buy
When you’re shopping for a trailer, the base model is just the start. Choosing the right optional features can make your trailer safer, easier to use, and better suited to your hauling needs. At Meridian Livestock Commission, we offer a range of optional features so you can customize your trailer the way you want it.
Whether you’re hauling cattle, horses, hay, equipment, or a mix of livestock and gear, knowing what features are available and how they benefit you can help you make a smarter buying decision.
Gates That Make Loading Easier
One of the most important features on any livestock trailer is the gate design. We offer options like split gates and slide-swing gates to give you flexibility when loading and unloading animals. Slide-swing gates are especially popular because they allow you to open just one side for controlled movement or swing the entire gate open when you need full access. This makes loading livestock smoother and safer, especially if you are working alone.
You can also choose from several cross gate configurations, which give you better control inside the trailer. Cross gates allow you to divide the trailer into compartments, manage different groups of livestock, and reduce shifting during transport. Depending on your setup, you may want:
A single center cut gate for basic separation
Multiple cross gates for hauling different weight classes
Slide-swing cross gates for added versatility
Removable or adjustable cross gates for flexibility
These options are especially useful if you haul mixed loads, replacement cattle, or need to keep animals separated for safety or organization. Cross gates help prevent overcrowding in one section and can reduce stress on livestock during transport.
Choosing the right gate system can make your trailer much more functional day to day. Whether you are hauling to the sale barn, pasture, or another property, having the right gate setup improves safety, efficiency, and control.
Choose the Right Sides for Your Needs
Trailer sides aren’t all the same. The way the sides are built can affect how your cargo rides and how the trailer performs in different situations. At Meridian Livestock, you can select from options like:
Pipe sides – strong and open for visibility and airflow
Plank sides – solid and secure for livestock
Rectangle tubing or punch-style – durable designs that provide structural strength and rugged performance
Each side option offers different advantages depending on what you’re hauling and how often you use the trailer.
Nose Styles for Protection and Performance
The nose of your trailer does more than just give it shape — it affects aerodynamics, protection, and how the trailer interacts with your truck. You can choose from several nose styles, including:
Enclosed Sloped – great for protection and aerodynamics
Enclosed Straight – classic design, better for maximum cargo space
Enclosed Tapered – a balance of airflow and usable space
Discussing nose style with our team can help you pick the right combination for your hauling goals.
Pick the Perfect Roof or Top
The top you choose can affect everything from weather protection to ventilation. We offer:
Bar Top – open but secure coverage
Canvas Top – lightweight protection for certain applications
Steel Top – full protection from elements and enhanced durability
A good top choice makes a difference whether you’re hauling livestock or other cargo that needs shielding from rain, sun, or dust.
Don’t Forget the Escape Gate
An escape gate is a critical safety feature, giving handlers a way to exit the trailer quickly and safely if livestock shift or conditions change during loading. At Meridian Livestock Commission, you can choose between a full escape gate and a half escape gate, depending on your trailer size and typical usage.
This option might not be something buyers think about at first, but it can make a big difference in safety and ease of handling on sale day and on the ranch.
Build Your Trailer to Fit Your Life
Choosing the right optional features lets you create a trailer that fits your truck, your property, and the way you work. At Meridian Livestock Commission, we help ranchers build trailers that meet their unique needs — from simple stock hauling to custom-equipped livestock carriers.
If you’re not sure which features are best for your operation, our team is here to walk you through the options and help you get the right setup. Fill out our custom trailer quote form or stop by the barn to talk through your priorities.