Consider Your Bale Type and Capacity
The natural first step in selecting the right bale carrier is determining the type of bales you’ll be working with. Round bales and square bales have distinct handling requirements, and the pickup arms and guides for these carriers are not interchangeable.
Models like the Cloverdale 12-14 Bale Carrier have gained popularity for handling oversized, wet round bales well thanks to features like a slick stainless-steel base and wide bale trough. This design minimizes binding and makes unloading easier, which offers a significant advantage for large operations, especially those with oversize or aged bales. Selling at a small premium over the 8-10 Bale Carrier in a similar form factor, it also represents a great value for growing farms that are planning to bring more operations in-house or expand acreage under management.
For operations where square bales are the primary focus, a trailer like the Farm King 4480XD offers seamless performance. This model offers a time-tested pickup arm design that firmly bundles square bales and stacks them upright, with simple, intuitive controls. Built on a high strength frame with oversized frame rails and 8-bolt hubs, it's built to handle rough terrain over both short distances and long hauls.
Durability and Design
Beyond capacity, the demands of the local terrain and long working seasons can wear down even the toughest trailers. Designed to offer long-lasting performance, the Anderson line of 1400 (14-Bale) and 2000 (20-Bale) round bale carriers offer upgraded undercarriages, ultra high strength automatic pickup arms, and hydraulic push-off for stubborn loads. Built to endure aggressive, uneven ground on continuous commercial operations, we love Anderson for their uncompromising approach to durability.
Ease of loading and unloading on high-capacity operations also creates a choice for consumers, with automatic loading systems like those found in the Anderson 1400 ideal for operators working long hours with fields and production that requires minimal manual intervention. If you prefer more manual control over the process or need to handle unusual loads, a model like the Farm King 2450 might be better choice, with a simple electronic joystick-controlled pickup arm that handles aging bales, wet fields, and narrow working widths with ease.
Maintenance and Upkeep
To extend the life of your hay trailer, consider scheduling regular inspections of critical parts such as the frame, tires, hydraulic lines, and axles, as well as following the manufacturer suggested lubrication intervals. Models like the Anderson RBM1400 with more complex hydraulic push-off systems and self-loading arms experience additional wear and benefit significantly from routine lubrication.
Check that critical bolts meet torque specs and inspect the structural integrity of loading arms regularly to help to guarantee performance when handling heavy loads and making aggressive contact with bales. As always, consult the operator's manual for the most up-to-date information on maintenance.
Financing and Support
At Keast Enterprises, we carry a wide range of bale carriers from trusted manufacturers like Anderson, Farm King, and Cloverdale to offer you the best solution for every operation. We also offer low-rate financing and nationwide delivery, making it easier for you to get the equipment you need, when you need it.
Need a hand? Our dedicated parts and service staff are here to help with ongoing maintenance and repairs with thousands of parts in stock to keep your equipment running smoothly for years to come. With 50 years of combined experience; give us a call or visit our website today to explore the full offering. From agricultural to construction and forestry equipment, we’ve got you covered from the first acre to the last.