Why a small trailer?
The advantage of a trailer is that its movable by almost any vehicle, and is completely self contained for long duration field operations.  However, it might be advisable to have a small camper trailer to accompany this unit into the field if operations will last over 48 hours.

Another reason is insurance.  In most states, the insurance on the vehicle towing the trailer covers the trailer.  This allows groups to have a vehicle for field use that only requires insurance on the equipment and trailer for theft or storm damage.  I believe the ARRL has an insurance that is cost effective for the equipment, and many insurance companies offer insurance policies for movables other than motorized vehicles.
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The Battery Boxes
No matter the type batteries used, the boxes should be sealed with a powered vent fan to prevent gases from building up within trailer.  A low power fan connected to the battery and switches so when the trailers internal lights are on, the fan is activated.   This will prevent anyone from being in the trailer unless its ventilated.
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The Generator
Mounting a small 3 KW generator on the tongue you will add an additional resource to your operational abilities.  First, this will allow you to maintain your batteries, Secondly, you can supply lights to the area surrounding the trailer. And last, if you are setup at a shelter, you have the ability to provide lights for the shelter if there is no power.

Sense the generator is mounted on the front of the trailer, it is recommended that sound proofing installed in the front wall of the trailer.  By framing the wall with 2" x 2" lumber, foam sheets can be cut to fit and a piece of 1/2 inch plywood is used to cover.  By using 1/2 inch or better, you are adding a surface that shelves or other items can be mounted.

NOTE: Just beware of your power loads so you don't overload the generator.
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Storage Lockers
A 5 foot storage locker might seem over sized at first, but consider the fact that you are storing coax, antennas, hand helds, lights with stands, tool box and many other items.
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Packet / APRS Station
This station is set on the side of the trailer so to save space on the main desk. and to allow for a second operator to handle Packet, APRS and HF communications while no interfering the the other operator that is tasked with VHF, UHF and telephone communications to the Damage assessment or shelter Mgrs. desk.
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HF Station
The trailer is laid out so that either the operator of the VHF / UHF equipment can also operate the HF equipment.  However, the design lends its self to 2 operators so the Amateur at the Packet station is also the HF operator.  By using a two person system, the work-load in divided evenly, and calls are handled in an efficient manor.
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Antenna Mast
The best location on the trailer to mount the hardware for a mast would be on the tongue, and against the trailer its self.  By welding a bracket across the tongue, and with a tube slightly larger built in, you have the first part of the mounting system.   Secondly, mount a clamp bracket to the top of the trailer with stand-offs that will allow the mast to slide in and be clamped in place.

Depending upon the height of the mast, you may have to add guide wires for stability in case of wind gust.
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UHF / UHF & Packet Antennas
Being that the trailer makes a good ground reflector, you might consider installing mobile antennas on the roof.  This will server to purposes in the trailer design for communications.  First, it gives you the ability to began operations before the trailer in unhitched. two, it allows more free space on your mast for secondary antenna systems.
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There will be more drawings and specifications posted over the coming weeks.   If you have any suggestion, e-mail them to me at: ARDS  Once complete, the plans will be made available in PDF as well as on the web as an HTML.
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Updated on  May 02, 2005
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This design is for a 12 Foot by 6 foot utility trailer. However, any size trailer can be used by adjusting the sizes of tables and cabinets.  This is the type trailer that can be found at stores such as Home Depot or Lowes.  And  its   design has been laid out to maximize the equipment storage and the operational area within the trailer.  This configuration is setup for one or two operators. One operating the VHF & UHF, and the other operating the Packet and HF.

The trailer is also equipped with a self powered telephone system with flashing lights instead of buzzers.  In Red Cross operational centers or shelters, the phone can be placed on the Damage Assessment desk.  This does away with runners and the need for additional personnel that can be used elsewhere.

With a generator mounted on the trailer tongue, it servers to power a small air conditioner / heater, lighting and battery chargers to maintain the power levels of 6 to 8 Jell-Cell or sealed lead acid batteries.
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Qt. Trailer & Equipment

Cost Ea.

Total Cost
1 6 x 12 Trailer 2,699.00 1,699.00
1 3 KW  Generator 699.00 699.00
1 Portable light stands 29.00 29.00
2 100 ft extension cords 15.00 30.00
2 5 gallon gas cans 15.00 30.00
2 5 gallon water cans 15.00 30.00
2 Sets of fog lights 19.00 38.00
1 6 ft. counter top 45.00 45.00
3 4 x 8 31.2 in plywood 12.00 24.00
1 5000 BTU A/C Unit 299.00 299.00
Misc. Wiring, panels & other items 200.00 200.00
Sub Total 4,047.00 3,123.00
Radio Equipment
1 VHF Mobile IC-2100H 180.00 180.00
1 UHF Mobile IC-208H 319.00 319.00
1 HF IC-703 - HF/6 Meter 700.00 700.00
1 TNC 159.00 159.00
1 Laptop - 500 MHz or better 500.00 500.00
Sub Total 1,858.00 1,858.00
Antennas, Mast & Accessories
1 40 ft telescoping mast 100.00 100.00
1 12 ft. mast 25.00 25.00
1 VHF 1/4 wave ground plains 35.00 35.00
1 UHF 5/8 wave ground plain 35.00 35.00
1 G5RV 49.00 49.00
1 100 ft RG-58u coax 50.00 50.00
3 20 ft. RG-58u coax 15.00 45.00
1 Weather-proof coax connection box 20.00 20.00
Sub total 329.00 359.00
Trailer & Equipment 3,147.00 3,223.00
Radio Equipment 1,858.00 1,858.00
Antennas, Mast & Accessories 329.00 359.00
Total Trailer Cost 5,334.00 5,799.00
Add-Ons
One other thing you might consider adding is a small window.  Being confined to a medal box with no view can become unnerving for the best of us.  If you decide to add a window, there are a few things to consider.  First is the size, keep it small enough that any bad guys can't fit through, or reach any equipment.  Secondly, make sure its strong to resist damage. And third, you might want a window that opens so you can hand items out without having to open the doors and letting out the conditioned air.
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Since these small trailers have little overhead clearance, you might consider using small office style chairs on rollers.  This would allow the operators to move from the back to the front by just rolling along.
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Additional Supplies:  When out-fitting a communications trailer for Disaster Services, there are supplies that should be included, but are often overlooked.  Items such as food, water, additional fuel for the generator and vehicles,  and more.   Consider you are at the beginning of an operation that might last a week to 10 days!  Think about what you would want on hand if you can't get to the store or a hotel.  How about bath wipes, extra clothes, clean socks, batteries for flash lights.    The list could go on and on.  So not is the time to put together a GO! kit for the trailers primary operators, and store it in your vehicle, or in the trailer so you are truly ready to go when called upon.
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NOTE:  All prices are new, and where found at Home Depot. Lowes and on-line businesses for Amateur radio equipment.  If used and/or donated equipment is used, the price of this trailer would drop.   Also, you might consider checking the newspaper for a used trailer.  I found a 5' x 6' that I use for work for $400 in very good shape.  If you decide to purchase a used trailer, make sure to check for rot in the flooring, and use a water hose to check for any leaks in the ceiling or sides.