Flatbed and open-top utility trailers are a good option for hauling large, bulky items when you don't have to access to a box truck. Some cargo requires more protection. In these cases, hard covers can be made from plywood and dimensional lumber to shield your cargo from the elements.
Since most trailers are fairly long, it is easiest to build your covers in sections that can be easily lifted on and off so that the trailer can continue to be used open when the covers are not in place.
Things You Will Need
- Tape measure
- 2-by-4 lumber
- Circular saw
- 3/4-inch-thick plywood
- Treated deck screws
- Eyehook latches
- Ratcheting straps
Parts
-
Measure the length and width of the trailer. Divide the length by 4 feet. You will build one cover section for every 4 feet of length, and one to cover any remainder.
-
Cut two-by-four lumber for your frame, using a circular saw. Cut two pieces the width of the trailer bed (from inside to inside of the rails, if the trailer has them) for each section of cover that you intend to build. Cut four pieces at 28 1/2 inches each to serve as legs, and four pieces at 45 inches for bracing.
-
Position the two width pieces parallel to each other on edge, with two of the 45-inch pieces between them, one at each end. Drive 3-inch screws through the width pieces into the ends of the 45-inch pieces, two in each end of each piece, to form a rectangle frame.
-
Measure the frame and cut a piece of 3/4-inch thick plywood to fit it; make one for each full cover section you intend to build. Cut two end pieces for each cover section 48-by-32 inches from 3/4-inch thick plywood.
