What all do you plan on using the trailer to haul? An open deck trailer is lighter but can only be used to cars. A full deck trailer has a little more weight to it, but you can haul lawn mower, cars, lumber, etc. My dad has a open deck and full deck, but with metal decking. Both are 20+ years old. One is a Bri Mar, I forget what the other one is. Only had to paint them once thru the years. The full deck trailer tows a lot nicer when empty due to it having more weight and doesn't bounce as much.