Want to Become the Best Towlos Host?

Your Comprehensive Guide to Trailer Sharing Success

Are you ready to step into the world of peer-to-peer rentals? Embarking on a journey as a host on Towlos, the world’s trailer sharing marketplace, can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to earn extra income while sharing your trailer with others who need a specific type of trailer. This opens up exciting opportunities for adventure seekers and doers…people who need to get things done! As a host, your role extends beyond being a mere provider of trailers – you’re crafting exceptional memories for your guests, the renters. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to become a top-tier host on Towlos, incorporating insights from the platform itself, along with specialized tips, tailored to trailer sharing.

Crafting an Irresistible Listing

  • Showcase trailer features: Capture high-quality images that highlight the unique features of your trailer, from various angles. For optimal lighting, take photos in the evening when the sunlight is softer, or on a cloudy day. 
  • Use a nice camera. An iPhone 11 or Google Pixel 4 or newer will capture beautiful images. Want to go the extra mile? Hire a pro photographer for $100-200 for a photo session.  Clear, well-lit photos help potential renters get a better understanding of what you’re offering. 
  • Showcase amenities or add-ons (such as a winch) that set your trailer apart.
  • Highlight towing requirements: Clearly outline the towing specifications and requirements to ensure potential renters have the right vehicle to tow your trailer.

Description: Be sure to include (not all will apply):

  1. The model year of the trailer in the title
  2. Approximate tire age and wear
  3. Date of brake service, if applicable
  4. Last 6 of VIN for insurance purposes
  5. Any details that make your trailer unique and more attractive
  6. Any extras (straps, winch, hitch) that would help your guest

Photos: As you know, good photos SELL, so be sure to include:

  1. Good photo of the hitch and connector (will help your guest see your setup)
  2. Detailed photos of the wheels and tires will help reassure guests of wear/dry rot
  3. Photo of your spare tire
  4. Photo showing what you might haul with your trailer. Example: a cool sports car on a car hauler
  5. Photos showing any existing trailer damage
  6. Any straps or accessories that you will include for your guests

You can use the 35 foot Imperial car hauler as a guide. 

  • Be transparent about the features, amenities, and any potential limitations of the trailer. Honesty builds trust and ensures that your guests arrive with accurate expectations.

Competitive and Attractive Pricing

  • Research similar listings: Examine similar trailers listed on Towlos to gauge the average pricing for trailers in your area. Price your listing competitively while considering the value you offer.

Prudent Trailer Maintenance

  • Cleanliness: Prioritize thorough cleaning before and after each rental. A clean interior and exterior elevate the rental experience for your guests, and demonstrate pride of ownership.
  • Check hitch and connections: Regularly inspect the hitch and connections to ensure they’re in excellent condition, ensuring a safe and trouble-free towing experience.
  • For your own peace of mind, we encourage you to add a GPS tracking device to your trailer. At Towlos, we are working on a best-in-class solution for you, both when renting your trailer out and when trailering it for your own personal use. Contact us if you have any specific recommendations for your own experience. 

Communication is Key

  • Prompt responses: Swiftly respond to inquiries and booking requests. Timely communication demonstrates your professionalism and dedication to providing a great experience. 
  • Clear instructions: Provide renters with clear and concise instructions for setting up and using your trailer. This minimizes confusion and helps your guests feel comfortable and confident. 
  • Pay attention to the recurring requests or points of confusion, and either add them to your trailer description or make sure you include that in your communication. 

Flexibility and Convenience

  • Flexible pickup and drop-off: Offer flexible timing for pickup and drop-off to accommodate renters’ schedules. This convenience can make your listing more attractive.
  • Amenities for safety/convenience: Consider providing ramps, tie-downs, ratchet straps, the proper size hitch ball, etc, enhancing the convenience and comfort of your renters.

Safety Above All

  • Trailer inspection: Conduct regular safety checks on essential components such as brakes, tires, and lights. Safety is paramount for both you and your renters.
  • Safety equipment: Equip your trailer with safety items such as a trailer jack, hazard triangles, and a spare tire.
  • Verification: Ensure your trailer is properly registered and insured and verify your guests’ identity and the condition of their tow vehicle. Be sure you understand yours versus the guests’ responsibility outlined here: ​​https://towlos.com/terms-conditions 

Personalized Touches for Memorable Experiences

  • Welcome package: As a thoughtful touch, prepare a welcome package containing towing tips, bottled water, snacks, a thank you note, and perhaps a small gift (could be something as simple as a 6-pack of Gatorade that you purchased in bulk from Costco). Consider adding $3 to the rental fee. We can almost guarantee that this personalized touch will make a lasting impression and help you stand out from the rest.
  • Local insights: In case your guest isn’t a local, share your insider knowledge of best gas stations when pulling a trailer, scenic routes, and hidden gems, enriching renters’ experiences.

Accumulating Positive Reviews and Feedback

  • Encourage reviews: Request reviews from your satisfied renters to build credibility and attract future bookings. Positive feedback contributes to your hosting reputation.
  • Continuous improvement: Use constructive feedback to improve your hosting game. This willingness to evolve will set you apart as a host who genuinely cares about the renter’s experience, and is a key trait of every successful host.
Group of friends sitting at the trailer outdoors, having a bonfire and a groupie

Conclusion

By integrating your own insights along with the specialized tips outlined above, you’re well-equipped to be a standout host on Towlos. Remember, hosting on Towlos isn’t just about offering trailers for rent; it’s about creating cherished memories and fostering unforgettable outdoor adventures for your guests. Embrace the role with passion, dedication, and attention to detail, and you’ll not only earn extra income but also contribute to the joy and exploration of adventure seekers from all walks of life. 


Matt Jones is a tech entrepreneur and keynote speaker who was bitten by the motorsports bug about 12 years ago. He is the founder of towlos, a trailer sharing marketplace that, among other things, seeks to make the process of getting into motorsports a bit more accessible. Matt is an orthopedic surgeon who was always intrigued by innovation, and eventually pivoted into the role of a tech founder. He currently lives in Denver, CO with his wife and 3 kids. As a speaker, he enjoys sharing this journey and the lessons he's learned, so others don't have to make the same mistakes! He would love to hear from you...for personal reasons, or for speaking engagements. Isn't life an amazing journey?