5′ x 8′ – 3500# – Utility Trailer Plans
5′ x 8′ – 3500# – Utility Trailer Plans
Start building your own utility trailer with these 5×8 Trailer Plans. Blueprints are fully engineered and include options for various needs. These plans are a perfect map for a great project.
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$ 18.99 - Complete Plans
* Plans are in a computer document. You may Save them to your computer immediately after Payment.
Description
Description
A trailer from these 5×8 Trailer Plans is better than a pickup truck in many ways for yard work, moving, or many other chores. The trailer is designed strong with the right materials in the right places. C-Channel and Rectangular Tube for a sealed frame design with optimal strength, weight and corrosion resistance. Plus, options for height, decking type, and many functions. It’s no wonder these plans are a best seller.
Plans include easy to follow, illustrated instructions, a materials list, a parts list, suggested places to purchase the parts, and construction options. A lot of options, and some options of options. The animation shows some of the options in the 5×8 Trailer Plans like a landscape style hinged tailgate, a ramp, and various sides, but that’s not all.
The trailer design is strong even as a true flatbed. Sides are an option to add utility, but are not there for strength or stiffness. Many other options too — like deck options for plywood or 2x dimensional lumber, types of tailgate, a toolbox, and more.
It’s your trailer. We give the base, then You choose how it all comes together.
We have alternate sizes — like 4×8 or 5×10 — if that works better.
If you prefer a torsion axle on this 5×8, we have plans for that too.
Open “Alternate Sizes & Conversions” below to make this a Tilt Top Trailer.
Specifications
Specifications
5′ x 8′ – 3500# – Utility Trailer Plans
- 5′ x 8′ nominal bed size. Actual bed is a little larger so it will carry a full 5′ x 8′ payload.
- Single axle, leaf spring design. Your choice of straight or drop axle.
- 3500 lb. trailer capacity which includes the trailer and the cargo.
- Construction is steel, welding, with a mix of common Tube, Channel, and Angle for an easy, sealed frame build.
- Plans include many options to make the trailer perfect for you. Use these options, or add your own.
- Options like a Convertible Tailgate, a Removable Ramp that stores under the bed, and several possibilities for sides are all there.
- Trailer weight will vary depending on design options, but will range from approximately 600 lbs (minimal flat bed) on up.
- A simple example for a Motorcycle stand is also in the plans.
- Plans include complete drawings and instructions.
More About The Design Features
More About The Design Features
Design options in the plans help customize the trailer to meet your particular needs. Things like a top, sides or tailgate add function if you want. Extras like a motorcycle stand, a ramp and toolbox mounting can also make the trailer perfect. Also read this article about customizing.
- Trailer bed size is slightly larger than 5 ft. wide x 8 ft. long — long enough to lay 8′ sheet goods down flat, then close the tailgate.
- At Mechanical Elements, we have changed the design paradigm. We measure the trailer based on the cargo to carry rather than the outside dimensions. That means you can put a 5′ wide item in, even with sides, then the same is true for the 8′ length.
- Overall length including the tongue is ~146 inches. (May vary with some options.)
- 5×8 trailer plans show a deck height that can range from 17 inches up, depend on design options chosen. (Bed height in the images is ~19″.)
- Max capacity is 3500 lbs.* set by the axle, which includes both the trailer and the cargo.
- For more information about building a trailer, please see the Mechanic’s construction tips and advice.

Alternate Sizes & Conversions
Alternate Sizes & Conversions
Not Quite The Perfect Trailer? Check These Too.
- Same Size, Different Axle – 5×8 – 3500 lbs Utility Trailer w/Torsion Axle
- One size Narrower – 4×8 – 3500 lbs Utility Trailer
- Or, a size Longer – 5×10 – 3500 lbs Utility Trailer
- One size Wider – 6×8 – 3500 lbs Utility Trailer
More trailer sizes and variations are available. See All Trailer Plans.
Make It A Tilt Top?
If you want this trailer as a Tilt Top, we have Plans for the Conversion. They show how to make this trailer with a tilting top, like in the image.
Conversion plans are sold separate. You will need both the above Trailer Plans and these Tilt Top Conversion Plans.
$ 9.99 - Complete Plans Add To Cart
Maximizing Your Project
Plans from Mechanical Elements are an awesome start to a great project. Here are even more resources!
First: For more info, please read: What's In The Plans? and What Makes Our Trailer Plans Better?
Second: Purchase plans with the "Add to Cart" button, then right after payment, a digital copy is ready to save to your computer. Please see this article for answers about getting the plans.
Third: We have many articles to help with trailer building. Just type a question in the Show Me bar (top of this page), then press "GO". Or, for simple browsing, visit Articles from the Mechanic.
Reminder:
Trailer building requires metal working skill and tools for things like cutting, drilling, and accurate set-up, as well as welding skill. Strength, durability, and enjoyment depend on building the trailer well. Build it well, then Enjoy the Finished Project !!
Notes for Success
* Trailer load capacity depends on all the parts and materials, as well as the craftsmanship in building. All Mechanical Elements trailers are engineered to perform as stated when built as defined with proper care in construction – including parts, material, construction techniques, weld integrity, assembly methods, and finishing. Capacity for this trailer also requires proper choices for parts such as the hitch, axle(s), wheels, tires, safety chain, decking, bolts, pins, etc. Please make sure component load capacities match or exceed the trailer total capacity. Do not exceed manufacturers limits.
For trouble-free trailer life, think care and safety. Please select fastening methods to handle how and where the trailer will operate – including vibration, proper fastener types, bolt grades, torques, and nut types (like lock nuts). Then, be smart about loading the trailer, load distribution, tire pressure, tire condition and the mechanics of towing. We want you safe to enjoy your trailer for a long time ahead. Always use proper safety and securing equipment when loading and towing a trailer.
Thank You — The Mechanical Elements Team
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