One of the most consistent questions asked is, “what do I use to build a float on”. Historically, parade floats were probably as popular in the mid-west and agricultural belt as anywhere; and maybe still are. The benefit of living in these areas was the availability of the “hay wagon” or “
Alternatively, most folks have resorted to using the widely available and more common utility trailer for an averaged size float (see image below). This type of trailer has a steel frame and part of the weight of the trailer is supported by the hitch, which means it can be towed with a tractor, pick-up truck or SUV with a suitable hitch. Utility trailers usually either have one axle (two tires) or two axles (four tires), depending on the length of the trailer. Some have flat beds, but most have rails raised above the bed of the trailer along the sides and the front, with fender wells and tires extending out past the rails. A word of caution about using these trailers; because the wheels extend out past the sides of the trailer, there is a greater danger that someone could fall off the float and be struck by the trailer. Use great care and supervision when using an open utility trailer for a parade float. ParadeFloatStuff.com and Walt Evans Decorators, Inc is not recommending nor advising the use of these trailers; only reporting on what others have used in the past.
Additional construction can be done to the trailer to make the parade float more aesthetically appealing while hiding the wheels and
Float decorations or props can now be easily stapled or drywall screwed to the newly created float base; instead of the steel structure that existed prior. And standard 15″ Drop Float Fringe hangs perfectly from the bottom of the sides to the ground, giving the parade float that “floating” effect, while hiding all the unappealing undercarriage. It might be a little extra work, but the final product is worth it.