Ultra, Yes, I was torn between getting a dump trailer or truck. I thought long and hard about a trailer only. I found several that I was interested in. The emissions,tags,insurance, etc., do add up for the 1 ton but I would have needed to get a modern 3/4 ton truck to be able to tow the levels I wanted with a dump trailer anyhow and that would have meant much more initial investment. I was searching both angles and this one just popped up! I practically jumped when it came available and didn't waste much time dickering around. I wanted it and got it.
There were several other large frame dump trucks also in my price range but the tags alone were gonna be double the cost yearly. I figured "for my limited usage this will fill the bill", and turns out I was right. I've hauled 3 yards of recycled concrete at one load (heavy rain and driveway was flooded badly) and it was a full heavy load but got done! I won't haul quite that much at one time again, but now know that I can if need be. But your points are certainly valid out here in Ca., those items are always needed to be considered. If I'd already owned a large enough tow vehicle I would have just gone with a trailer.
I still need a regular trailer to move my junk around and am constantly searching for one of those too, but don't have any urgent need so can be quite picky and am taking my time. Would like to find a used 20 foot tilt bed, but they just don't seem to pop up outta nowhere and say "Buy me!!" At least I now have the tow ability to get almost any sized trailer I'll ever need. Thus, again my 1 ton purchase will pay off in another way. I have zero regrets. Greg
