Starting a sealcoating business—or upgrading your current setup—is an exciting step. Whether you’re tackling driveways, parking lots, or full-scale commercial projects, the right equipment makes all the difference. And one of the first decisions you’ll face is this: Should you go with a skid-mounted sealcoating unit or a trailer-mounted one?
We manufacture skid and trailer sealcoating systems at Seal-Rite because we know one size doesn’t fit all. We aim to help contractors of all sizes find equipment matching their workflow, job demands, and budget. This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of each option, helping you figure out which system fits your business best.
Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into comparisons, let’s define what we’re talking about:
- Skid-mounted units are designed to sit in the bed of a pickup truck or flatbed. They’re compact and ideal for businesses that already own work vehicles.
- Trailer-mounted units are built directly onto a trailer chassis, ready to be towed behind a truck. These are more of a self-contained solution with built-in storage.
Both types are available in hand-agitated, power-agitated, and SR models. At Seal-Rite, you’ll find a wide selection of both skids and trailers, built right here in the U.S.A., that use top-grade materials and components.
Tip: If you’re unsure where your business is heading, ask yourself how many gallons of sealer you expect to go through in a typical day. That number can quickly steer you toward the right unit.
Factor #1: Mobility and Logistics
Do you already have a truck with a flatbed or a heavy-duty pickup? A skid-mounted unit may be the perfect solution. It allows you to use the vehicle you already own and offers flexibility—you can install or remove the unit as needed, use your truck for other purposes, and store the unit separately when not in use.
Prefer a plug-and-play solution? Trailer systems are turn-key. You simply hook them up and go. They also look clean and professional when you show up at a jobsite. Trailers also help free up your truck space for additional gear or crew.
A key question is: Do you want your sealcoating equipment mounted to a truck, or would you rather have it portable and interchangeable between vehicles?
Factor #2: Budget and Long-Term ROI
Cost is always a factor, and here’s where skid units have the upper hand for those just starting. They typically have a lower upfront price and allow you to enter the business without breaking the bank. For new contractors, this can mean the difference between launching now or waiting and saving up.
Trailer units can deliver excellent long-term value, especially if you’re scaling fast or focusing on commercial work. Because they’re designed for efficiency, they can reduce labor time, lower material waste, and allow for more jobs per day. The return on investment for trailers often shows up in increased productivity and professionalism.
Which One Is Right for You? A Quick Side-by-Side
| Feature | Skid Unit | Trailer Unit |
| Mobility | Requires an existing truck bed | Self-contained, towed by a vehicle |
| Cost | Lower upfront investment | Higher investment, better long-term ROI |
| Storage needs | Compact and removable | Requires a trailer parking space |
| Professional appearance | Functional and flexible | Streamlined and business-ready look |
What Seal-Rite Brings to the Table
No matter which type of unit fits your needs, Seal-Rite is your one-stop shop for everything sealcoating. Here’s why contractors across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and beyond choose us:
- Top-tier construction: Our skid and trailer systems are designed for durability and ease of use. We offer hand-agitated and power-agitated options depending on your workflow.
- Custom systems: We carry gravity feed and spray systems and can help configure your unit to match how you work.
- Parts and accessories in stock: We stock sealcoating spray tips, crack filling equipment, brooms, brushes, Billy Goat Blowers, Grazors, squeegees, and more—all ready to ship fast.
- Reliable support: Need a part replaced quickly? Want to talk through an equipment question? Our team is here to help every step of the way.
When you invest in Seal-Rite, you invest in equipment and service that builds your reputation and keeps your business moving forward.
Expansion and Flexibility
Some contractors start with a skid unit and later add a trailer to grow their fleet. This approach works great if you want to begin with a lower upfront investment and then build toward a more scalable operation.
On the flip side, if you’re already bidding on commercial lots or have multiple crews, starting with a trailer might be smarter, saving you time on the road, at the jobsite, and between loads.
Still Not Sure? Let’s Talk
Choosing between a skid and trailer unit isn’t always black and white. It depends on how you work, where you work, and what you want your business to look like.
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Seal Rite at 573-387-4491today or visit us online for more information!
SR-Skid Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Skid Units
SR-Skid Units
SR-Skid Units
SR-Skid Units
SR-Skid Units
SR-Skid Units
SR-Skid Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units
SR-Trailer Units