If you’re in the market for a heavy-duty trailer, Kaufman and Big Tex are two of the top brands to consider. Both manufacturers have a stellar reputation for building rugged, reliable trailers for commercial and personal use.
But how do you choose between these two industry leaders?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Kaufman and Big Tex trailers across several key factors to help you determine which brand is the best fit for your needs and budget. We’ll break down trailer types, features, quality, customization, pricing, warranty and more.
Let’s dive in!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Aspects | Kaufman | Big Tex |
| Trailer Types | Dump trailers, landscape, car haulers, utility, cargo, deck over, gooseneck, 5th wheel, tractor trailers | Dump trailers, utility, gooseneck, equipment, cargo, car haulers, ATV/motorcycle haulers |
| Sizes Available | 4 ft – 53 ft | 5 ft – 45 ft |
| Construction | All steel framing, 10 gauge – 3/16 in thick | All steel framing, 12 gauge – 5/16 in thick |
| Components | Dexter axles, UFP couplers, LED lights, apitong/oak/aluminum floors | Dexter axles, Bulldog couplers, LED lights, pressure treated wood floors |
| Customization | Axles, tires, floors, finishes, ramps, tie downs, fenders, jacks | Finishes, floors, ramps, axles, lights, doors, shelving, wheels |
| Warranty | 5 year structural, components separate | 5 year structural, 10 year corrosion, components separate |
| Average Cost | $1,500 – $50,000+ | $1,900 – $45,000+ |
Key Differences Between Kaufman And Big Tex Trailers
- Trailer Types Offered
Both Kaufman and Big Tex offer a wide variety of trailer types and sizes to accommodate anything you need to haul, from equipment to livestock and everything in between.
Kaufman produces single and tandem axle dump trailers, landscape trailers, car haulers, utility and cargo trailers, deck over trailers, gooseneck and fifth wheel trailers, as well as tractor trailers. Sizes range from 4 feet up to 53 feet.
Big Tex manufactures single and tandem axle dump trailers, utility trailers, gooseneck trailers, equipment trailers, cargo trailers, car haulers, motorcycle and ATV haulers. Sizes range from 5 feet up to 45 feet.
Big Tex has a slight edge in diversity for specialty trailers like ATV and motorcycle haulers, whereas Kaufman offers tractor trailers that Big Tex does not. But both brands cover all the major trailer types and sizes that appeal to most buyers.
- Build Quality and Durability
Build quality is where these two brands really stand out from the competition. Both Kaufman and Big Tex use top-notch materials and components to construct incredibly sturdy, durable trailers.
Kaufman uses all steel construction with wood floor options. Steel thickness ranges from 10 gauge to 3/16 inches depending on the trailer model. The company uses premium paints and undercoating for rust protection. Kaufman also offers heavy duty ramp options.
Big Tex utilizes steel construction with thicknesses from 12 gauge to 5/16 inches depending on the trailer. For better corrosion resistance an e-coat primer is used before painting. Big Tex offers rugged ramp options as well.
When it comes to structural integrity and standing up to heavy use, Kaufman and Big Tex are neck and neck. Both brands engineer trailers to last decades rather than just a few years like cheaper models. Strong yet lightweight materials provide superior strength-to-weight ratios.
- Quality of Components
In addition to robust framing, the axles, tires, lights, wiring, jacks and other components greatly affect trailer quality. Let’s see how Kaufman and Big Tex measure up.
Kaufman equips trailers with name brand components like Dexter axles, UFP couplers, LED lighting, and self-adjusting EZ lube hubs. Floor options include apitong, oak or aluminum.
Big Tex utilizes Dexter axles, Bulldog couplers, LED lights, fast lube hubs and pressure treated wood flooring. Big Tex prides itself on using American-made steel and components in US factories.
When it comes to components, both brands leave little room for complaint. Heavy duty parts from leading manufacturers ensure reliable performance and less maintenance compared to inferior components.
Big Tex has a slight advantage of US-sourced materials and manufacturing.
- Customization and Options
A major selling point for both Big Tex and Kaufman trailers is the high degree of customization available. Build a trailer tailored to your specific needs.
Kaufman allows you to select from several axle configurations, tire sizes, flooring and ramp types, D-ring tie downs, fender types, jack options and much more. Choose between a power coated or galvanized finish. Optional features include stone guards, toolbox mounts and more.
Big Tex offers extensive options for finishes, floors, ramps, axles, jacks, lighting, shelving, doors and more. Available upgrades include aluminum wheels, spare tire mounts, reverse lights, winches and more. Big Tex prides itself on delivering custom-built trailers.
The customization options are robust for both brands. Work directly with knowledgeable sales staff to configure the perfect trailer for your applications and budget. Both Kaufman and Big Tex are willing to meet special requests too.
- Warranties
A strong manufacturer’s warranty provides peace of mind on your investment and reflects the brand’s faith in their products. Let’s compare the warranties offered.
Kaufman provides a 5 year structural warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Tires, axles, couplers and other components are covered by separate warranties from their respective manufacturers.
Big Tex offers a similar 5 year structural warranty plus a 10 year warranty against perforation corrosion. Big Tex components like axles and tires also carry individual manufacturer warranties.
The warranties are evenly matched and demonstrate the confidence each brand has in their trailer’s longevity. Both Kaufman and Big Tex stand behind their products with comprehensive 5 year structural coverage. Perforation corrosion protection goes to Big Tex.
- Pricing and Value Comparison
Now for the big question – how much can you expect to pay for Kaufman vs Big Tex trailers? Let’s look at average price ranges.
Kaufman Trailers run from about $1,500 for basic 4×8 utility models up to $50,000+ for the largest goosenecks. However, most single axle models are priced between $3,000-$10,000. Dual axle dump trailers range from $5,000-$15,000 on average.
Big Tex Trailers start around $1,900 and run up to $45,000+. The majority of single axle Big Tex models cost $4,000-$12,000. Tandem axle dumps average $6,000-$18,000. Goosenecks can run up to $30,000 or more.
There is quite a bit of overlap in MSRP between the two brands. In general, Big Tex trailer prices run slightly higher overall. But for similarly equipped models, Kaufman and Big Tex end up being very close in cost. Both deliver excellent value for premium trailers.
Which Is Better For You?
After comparing the two brands across these key categories, is there a clear winner? The truth is that Kaufman and Big Tex both make top notch trailers – you really can’t go wrong with either brand.
Big Tex offers a few more trailer varieties like ATV/motorcycle haulers. Kaufman edges out in providing tractor trailers. Warranties are nearly identical though Big Tex adds a 10 year corrosion coverage.
But for the factors most buyers consider important – quality, durability, components, customization and value – Kaufman and Big Tex are extremely well-matched. Both manufacturers produce heavy duty trailers that will last for decades.
At the end of the day, your needs and budget will determine whether Kaufman or Big Tex is a better fit for you personally. Think about the type of trailer you want and your planned usage. Get quotes on similar models from each brand. And check if either manufacturer offers discounts or financing deals to help sway your decision.
Regardless of which direction you go, Kaufman and Big Tex both provide top-of-the-line trailers that outclass most competitors. Investing in one of these premium brands means you’ll enjoy years of reliable service from a heavy-duty, custom-built trailer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Some of Kaufman’s major competitors in the trailer manufacturing industry include Big Tex, PJ Trailers, Bri-Mar, Load Trail, Carry-On Trailer, TrailersPlus, and Lark United.
Big Tex trailers are more expensive than many competitors because they use high-quality, heavy duty construction and components. Big Tex trailers feature all-steel framing, thick metal gauge, premium axles, couplers, hubs and other parts. They are built to last for decades rather than just a few years, which justifies the higher cost.
Kaufman Trailers is a privately-owned company located in Kaufman, Texas. It has been family-owned and operated by CEO Al Kaufman since opening in 1971. Today Kaufman Trailers operates manufacturing facilities in both Texas and Indiana.
Some of the best dump trailer brands include Big Tex, Kaufman, Bri-Mar, PJ Trailers, Load Trail and Carry-On. The “best” dump trailer depends on your specific needs and budget. Big Tex and Kaufman both offer premium quality dump trailers that are leaders in the industry. Consider factors like capacity, axles, gooseneck vs bumper pull, and customization options when choosing the best dump trailer.
Final Thoughts
In summary, both Kaufman and Big Tex manufacture premium quality heavy-duty trailers that can handle commercial and personal use. They are closely matched when it comes to build quality, durability, components, customization options, warranties and pricing.
Big Tex offers more variety in specialty trailers like ATV/motorcycle haulers, while Kaufman provides tractor trailers. Overall Kaufman and Big Tex are two excellent trailer brands that deliver reliable performance, longevity, and good value.
Choosing between them ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. With their reputation for durability and customization, you can’t go wrong investing in either brand for a trailer built to last.
