I bought this trailer with the advice of avid canoeists for Viterbo University in La Crosse, WI. When they picked it up, all were very impressed with every aspect of the design and manufacturing. The unit is built (we got the 6 canoe version) and then galvanized so all areas are covered. There are areas to stand on over the tires to load and unload boats, along with an area near the hitch. All equipment (chains, covers, connectors, etc) are of high quality. Very impressive and the owners were wonderful to work with. Should last a very long time.