Why is it that hauling trailers, the kind behind commuter cars or trucks, are always center axeled, requiring a tongue and toe weight balance? Why do we not ever see them with a long wheelbase like a skateboard, or car or truck?

Question

An obvious possible requirement would be some form of capable turning front wheels (maybe like a shopping cart?) But outside of that, overall braking ability I wouldnt see as being much if any affect. But I would see the likelyhood of increased towing capability for smaller vehicles, only needing to pull a weight rather than pull and lift/balance.
It doesnt even just seem to be a preference thing, because what I am picturing I’ve quite literally never seen, and I’m wondering if there is a simple answer or safety issue for why they dont exist.
I’ve done quite a bit of searching, but all results are just specs of existing products mostly, but never explaining why the standard setup is what it is today.
Any input is appreciated, and thanks for reading the long post

In: Engineering

Answer 1

Commuter trailers are center balanced because it’s easier to back them up and manufacture them. The multiple trailers found behind big rig trucks do indeed have fore and aft wheels, with the front wheels being attached by a “fifth wheel” plate. This means that the trailer has an additional axis that it can rotate around, which makes it very difficult to back up; it’s like pushing a chain.