trailer

A trailer is a vehicle designed to be towed by another vehicle, and it lacks its own propulsion. Trailers are used to transport goods, equipment, livestock, or even people, and they come in a wide range of sizes and configurations. They connect to tow vehicles via a hitch system and may include braking systems, lighting, suspension, and axles appropriate to their load.

Common trailer types include utility trailers for general cargo, cargo trailers with enclosed bodies, equipment trailers for heavy machinery, car trailers for transporting vehicles, flatbed trailers for oversized loads, dump trailers for construction materials, and specialty trailers such as horse trailers and livestock trailers. Recreational trailers include travel trailers or campers, which provide living space and amenities for camping. Trailer designs may use ball hitches, gooseneck hitches, or fifth-wheel connections, with weight ratings that govern safe towing and required braking, lighting, and license considerations.

In the film and television industry, a trailer (also called a preview) is a short promotional video or montage released to advertise an upcoming production. Trailers summarize plot elements, introduce cast and key scenes, and aim to generate audience interest. They are distributed through theaters, television, streaming platforms, and online channels and typically vary in length from about 15 to 120 seconds.

Design and safety considerations cover load distribution, coupling maintainability, braking systems, lighting and reflectors, and compliance with local regulations regarding weight, speed, and insurance. Proper maintenance of tires, brakes, and hitch components is essential to prevent accidents during towing.

The term trailer has historical roots in transport and marketing, reflecting both a detachable load carrier and, in modern media, a promotional preview used to attract viewers before the main release.