The punch side design, originally introduced by Merritt in the 1960s, has become the industry standard for its unmatched advantages. Known for its superior strength, flexibility under load, and enhanced air ventilation, this design also offers smooth interior walls and maximum inside width. Originally developed for large semis, the punch sheet & post design has stood the test of time, consistently outperforming other trailers on the market. Several punch side options are available to suit all weather conditions, ensuring optimal performance and durability in any environment.
Merritt has long been known for designing roofs that can endure the demanding conditions of hauling livestock, and the Cattle Baron design is no exception. This roof is crafted from a single sheet of high-grade aluminum, riveted and sealed around the perimeter for maximum durability. It is bonded to extra-wide roof bows with a high-strength adhesive, ensuring a secure, long-lasting structure that withstands the rigors of heavy use while providing reliable protection for your livestock.
The floor is built with laterally welded seams and durable diamond plate, the same material used in our Cattle Drive semis, ensuring exceptional longevity and resilience. This robust deck is the strongest in the industry, supported by Merritt’s exclusive 3” livestock cross members, offering unmatched strength and durability.
Aluminum trailers need stronger corners to mitigate the stress of twisting. Merritt has spared no expense to ensure the corners will never give you a problem.
Merritt takes safety on the road and on the ranch seriously by making loading lights & high-visibility LED stop and tail lights standard equipment on every Cattle Baron model.
The Snap-Back Latching System is a low-profile, high-tension latch designed for easy operation from both inside and outside the trailer. Featuring replaceable UHMW anti-friction strips and a heavy-gauge fabricated plate, this latch is low-maintenance and built for long-lasting durability. It securely holds the gate against the extruded backstop, ensuring a tight closure that prevents the gate from bouncing open during transport. This reliable system offers consistent performance with minimal upkeep. UHMW anti-friction strips and a heavy-gauge fabricated plate make this latch very simple and durable. It holds the gate against the striker bar and keeps it tight to keep it from bouncing open during transport.
Fender guards on both the front and rear come standard on Merritt’s gooseneck trailers. These provide fender protection and can be used as a step. They are also self-draining, limiting snow & ice build-up.
The safety latch keeps the full gate from swinging back at you when engaging the camlock. This latch can be opened from inside the trailer to prevent accidental lock-ins.
Tapered fender wells are designed to stay as tight to the wall as possible in both the 7′ & 8′ wide trailers. Larger capacity axles require more inside fender wells.
Merritt’s Cattle Baron line comes standard with extruded winter posts, designed to support paneling along the sides of the trailer. This innovative feature provides your livestock with a more comfortable ride, reducing stress and helping to maintain a stable interior temperature, even in the coldest conditions.
Welded-in floors and a Merritt-designed 3″ structural cross-member puts the material where you need it. This Merritt custom extrusion is used in large semis and has proven to be the strongest cross-member in the industry. Unlike riveted floors, welded-in floors do not vibrate loose over time and provide a very solid surface for your livestock. Our I-beam style cross-member will never “roll over” or flatten out over time. To build the best trailer, you have to build the best sub-structure, and Merritt continues to lead the industry in that area.
When a Gooseneck trailer is pulled across uneven terrain, the rear can drag, causing scraping that may push dirt and gravel into the subframe and damage cross members. To prevent this, Merritt welds a segmented skid plate across the rear of the bottom deck. This welded design provides enhanced durability and strength, offering superior protection compared to fastened options.
