Our Story | Cholla Trailers
Keeping Southern Arizona Moving Since 1980
In 1980, our doors opened in Tucson, Arizona, with a single, clear mission: to provide the local community with uncompromised craftsmanship in metal fabrication and welding. What began as a dedicated local shop handling custom structural requests has evolved over the last four decades into Southern Arizona’s most trusted facility for master-level diagnostics, heavy-duty structural welding restorations, and certified trailer safety repairs.
Deep Roots in the Tucson Community
For over 40 years, our facility at 1933 East Eastland Street has been a cornerstone for local logistics, agricultural workers, and trailer enthusiasts. We watched Tucson grow, and with it, the demands placed on commercial transport, utility trailering and high-end trailer care.
As road conditions and long-haul demands in the Southwest became more intense, we expanded our capabilities. We invested in advanced diagnostic equipment, heavy-duty frame-straightening technology, and elite metallurgical tooling. However, we never lost the personal, community-first handshake that built our business.
A Legacy of Adaptation
Trailering and fabrication are highly scientific trades. The extreme heat cycling of the Sonoran Desert forces metal to expand and contract, putting profound stress on structural welds and trailer axle alignments.
At Cholla Trailers, our long history allows us to predict and mitigate these regional challenges. Every trailer we repair in our bays is engineered and inspected specifically to survive the demanding environments of the Interstate 10 and Interstate 19 shipping corridors, rugged job sites, and weekend lake trips alike.
Today, we honor our 40+ year legacy by treating every single trailer that rolls into our yard with the exact same philosophy we started with in 1980: Do the job right, charge a fair price, and never compromise on safety.
A Note on Our Name: While we are legally registered as Cholla Metal Crafts Inc. to honor our 1980 founding roots, our customers and neighbors throughout Pima County know us on the road simply as Cholla Trailers—the ultimate destination for Southern Arizona trailer fabrication, sales, and repair.
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN SEE
From emergency roadside assistance to multi-day transformations and structural updates, our technicians bring decades of combined hands-on experience. We’ve tackled:
- Frame reinforcements and structural welding for commercial flatbeds with critical downtime
- Complete axle, suspension, and certified safety rebuilds for trailers serving Southern Arizona farms
- Master-level diagnostics, custom wiring and electrical restorations for classic and modern trailers
Each job is documented and handled by ASE-certified
technicians who understand how Arizona’s heat, monsoons,
and rough roads impact trailers.
“I brought my trailer in after a bad weld failed on I-10. Rick and his crew had it rewelded, aligned, and back on the road by the next day. Top-tier work.”
– MIGUEL R., TUCSON BUSINESS OWNER
HEAR WHAT OUR TUCSON NEIGHBORS ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR METAL CRAFTS.
More Than Just Repairs – A Commitment to Quality
Whether it’s a cracked spring hanger, a precision frame adjustment, or a full structural restoration, every service includes:
- A walk-through inspection with clear diagnostics
- Accurate part matching and safe material use
- Detailed documentation and service records
We use MIG and TIG welding techniques depending on trailer material, and select hardware to meet OEM or better specifications. Our welders follow a star pattern torque method for all the bolts to ensure even stress distribution and structural balance.
Certifications, Community, and Local Focus
All of our technicians are ASE-certified, and our team undergoes continuous training to master complex electrical systems and mechanical overhauls. We’re proud members of the Tucson Chamber of Commerce and participate in local events including certified safety prep clinics for trailer owners and RV travelers.
Located just off I-10 near the University of Arizona and Reid Park Zoo, our central shop supports drivers, haulers, and enthusiasts from Marana to Vail. We’ve even been featured in the local news for our innovative fabrication restoration methods during a Tucson Rodeo repair challenge.
Service with Accountability
Every restoration and repair is backed by a 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Customers get written estimates, honest feedback, and a thorough walkthrough of all finished work. That’s why we’ve earned over 100 five-star reviews across Google and Yelp.
Ready to Work With Us?
Look for skilled technicians who specialize in master-level transformations, and certified safety inspections. If you have questions or would like to schedule a restoration or trailer service, please contact us to speak with our team.
How long has Cholla Trailers been in business?
Over 40 years—since 1980.
What types of trailers do you work on?
Utility, cargo, flatbed, RV, commercial, and master-level trailer transformations.
Do you offer emergency or rush services?
Yes. We provide priority repair when trailers are needed for immediate use.
Is your work guaranteed?
Yes. All qualifying repairs come with a 12-month / 12,000-mile parts and labor warranty.
Are your technicians certified?
Yes. All techs are ASE-certified and trained in advanced restorations, structural welding, and certified safety inspection methods.