Trailer Leasing & Sales Qualifications
What are the requirements to lease trailers from DST?
To qualify for trailer leasing with DST, customers must meet established business and credit qualifications. Leasing customers should have a well-established commercial operation with a proven business history. Qualification is based on a comprehensive review of your business, financial stability, operational needs, and credit profile. Additional requirements include an approved credit application, a current Dun & Bradstreet report, and a valid certificate of insurance that meets DST's coverage requirements.
Why does DST have specific leasing qualifications?
DST’s leasing qualifications help ensure long-term reliability, financial stability, and operational consistency for both parties. These standards allow DST to maintain high-quality equipment, reduce risk, and provide dependable service to customers who rely on trailers for daily operations.
Is credit approval required for trailer leasing?
Yes. Trailer leasing requires an approved credit application and a Dun & Bradstreet report reviewed by DST’s Director of Sales. This process helps establish fair leasing terms and protects the integrity of the leasing program.
What insurance is required to lease trailers from DST?
Leasing customers must provide a certificate of insurance that meets DST’s coverage requirements. This ensures proper protection of the equipment and compliance with industry standards throughout the lease term.
What are the requirements to purchase a trailer from DST?
Trailer purchases through DST are straightforward and do not require the same qualifications as leasing. Customers must provide payment via check or ACH and sign a bill of sale to complete the transaction.
Do I need to be in business for a certain number of years to buy a trailer?
No. Unlike leasing, trailer sales do not require a minimum number of years in business or fleet size. Sales transactions are completed with payment and a signed bill of sale.
Preventative Maintenance & Fleet Reliability
Why is preventative maintenance important for trailers?
Preventative maintenance is one of the most effective ways to protect your fleet, reduce operating costs, and avoid unexpected downtime. Routine inspections and scheduled service help identify minor issues early before they become costly repairs or roadside breakdowns.
What issues does preventative maintenance help prevent?
Preventative maintenance helps identify and address common concerns such as tire wear, brake adjustments, air leaks, lighting issues, and general safety items. Catching these issues early improves reliability, reduces the risk of DOT violations, and prevents more significant and expensive repairs.
How does preventative maintenance help with DOT compliance?
Regular maintenance ensures trailers remain safe, roadworthy, and compliant with DOT regulations. Proper upkeep reduces the likelihood of inspections, citations, and service interruptions that can disrupt operations.
Does preventative maintenance extend the life of a trailer?
Yes. Consistent preventative maintenance significantly extends the lifespan of trailer equipment. By reducing wear and tear and addressing issues proactively, fleets maximize their investment and avoid premature equipment replacement.
How does preventative maintenance reduce overall operating costs?
Preventative maintenance lowers long-term costs by minimizing emergency repairs, reducing downtime, and improving operational efficiency. Planned service is almost always more cost-effective than unexpected breakdowns.
Trailer Maintenance vs. Additional Services
What services are included as part of trailer maintenance?
Trailer maintenance focuses on safety, performance, and compliance-related items. This includes inspections, mechanical adjustments, and routine service designed to keep equipment reliable, road-ready, and DOT-compliant.
What services are considered additional or supplemental services?
Additional services go beyond core maintenance and are designed to support convenience, branding, and logistics. These services are optional and can be added based on operational needs.
Does DST offer trailer parking services?
Yes. DST offers trailer parking solutions to help customers manage space constraints, staging needs, and fleet logistics efficiently.
Are trailer washing services available?
Yes. Trailer washing services are available to help maintain a clean, professional appearance while supporting fleet branding and cleanliness standards.
Does DST handle decal installation and removal?
DST provides professional decal installation and removal services. This allows customers to apply branding, update graphics, or remove outdated decals without damaging trailer surfaces.
Can DST arrange trailer delivery and pickup?
Yes. DST offers trailer delivery and pickup services to streamline logistics and reduce downtime. This service helps customers get equipment where it’s needed without disrupting daily operations.
How do additional services benefit fleet operations?
Additional services help save time, improve efficiency, and reduce operational strain. By bundling services like parking, washing, decals, and delivery, customers can focus on their core business while DST handles the logistics.