The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers was founded in 1987 as the National Association of Livestock Trailer Manufacturers. Members soon realized that all light- and medium-duty trailer manufacturers share common concerns and problems, and in 1992 “livestock” was dropped and the name was changed to the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM). The Association represents manufacturers that produce all types  of light- and medium-duty trailers. These trailers are constructed of aluminum, steel, and combinations of both, and are towed as a bumper pull or by a gooseneck coupler.

The Association is organized to promote, both to the industry and to the public, a universal recognition of safety and quality in the trailer manufacturing industry. Since its inception, NATM has worked to improve the trailer industry through the promotion of compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and selected industry standards. This has been accomplished through education and the publication of the Guidelines for Recommended Minimum Manufacturing Practices for Light- and Medium-Duty Trailers (Guidelines). This publication is a compilation of federal rules, regulations, and best practices that govern trailer construction