Cargo Craft vs Alcom Enclosed Trailers: Steel vs Aluminum Compared

When our customers at Trailer Place are shopping for an
enclosed trailer, the decision often comes down to two of our best-selling brands:
Cargo Craft (steel) and
Alcom (aluminum). Both are excellent
trailers, but they serve different needs. Here’s our honest comparison.

Cargo Craft: Texas-Built Steel Excellence

Cargo Craft has been building enclosed trailers in Waco, Texas since 1992. Their trailers feature
tube steel framing, smooth screwless aluminum exterior panels, and a reputation for solid, no-nonsense
construction. They’re the most popular enclosed trailer brand we sell — and for good reason.

Cargo Craft Strengths:

• Lower price — Steel-framed trailers cost 30-40% less than comparable aluminum models
• Proven durability — Tube steel framing handles impacts and heavy loading extremely well
• Built in Texas — Warranty service and parts availability is excellent in our region
• Wide model range — From small 5’x8′ to large 8.5’x24′ with numerous configurations
• V-nose option — Their Elite V-Nose models improve aerodynamics and add interior space

Cargo Craft Considerations:

• Steel framing can rust over time, especially in Gulf Coast humidity — proper maintenance required
• Heavier than aluminum equivalents — slightly more tongue weight and fuel consumption

Alcom: Premium All-Aluminum Construction

Alcom (Aluminum Company of Maine) builds 100% aluminum enclosed trailers — frame, walls, floor,
and roof. Their Stealth series is engineered for buyers who want a trailer that will never rust
and weigh significantly less than steel alternatives.

Alcom Strengths:

• Zero rust — Aluminum doesn’t corrode. Period. In Gulf Coast Texas, this is a massive advantage
• 30-40% lighter — Less tongue weight, better fuel economy, more payload capacity
• Higher resale value — Aluminum trailers hold their value better over time
• Lower maintenance — No paint touch-ups, no rust treatment, no corrosion concerns
• Stainless hardware — Even the bolts and hardware resist corrosion

Alcom Considerations:

• Higher upfront cost — expect to pay 30-40% more than a comparable Cargo Craft
• Aluminum dents more easily than steel (though it doesn’t affect structural integrity)

Price Comparison

• 6’x12′ enclosed: Cargo Craft ~$5,500-$7,000 | Alcom ~$7,500-$9,500
• 7’x16′ enclosed: Cargo Craft ~$8,000-$11,000 | Alcom ~$11,000-$15,000
• 8.5’x20′ enclosed: Cargo Craft ~$12,000-$16,000 | Alcom ~$17,000-$22,000

Our Recommendation

Choose Cargo Craft if: Budget is a priority, you maintain your equipment well,
you store the trailer under cover, or you need a trailer for 3-7 years before upgrading.

Choose Alcom if: You plan to keep the trailer 10+ years, you operate near the
Gulf Coast (humidity and salt air), you tow frequently and want better fuel economy, or you
value lowest total cost of ownership over lowest purchase price.

Both brands are in stock at Trailer Place.
Come see them side by side at 2507 County Rd 231, Wharton, TX 77488 or call (979) 532-1486.