Eco-Hauling Hacks: Optimizing Trailer Loads to Reduce Fuel Consumption

Bumper-pull and gooseneck trailers are affordable, cost-effective assets for companies of all sizes that need to move goods and equipment from point A to point B. However, when hitching a trailer to your pick-up truck or other tow vehicle, it typically requires additional fuel to haul the extra weight. So, we’ve developed a list of eco-hauling hacks to optimize trailer loads and reduce fuel consumption.

Hack #1: Master the Art of Aerodynamics

Wind resistance (drag) is the single most significant factor of fuel economy when towing. At highway speeds, aerodynamic drag accounts for most of the power required to pull your haul. On flatbed trailers, like the Bigfoot Equipment Trailer, try to load items as low as possible and avoid those that extend far above the trailer’s walls or the tow vehicle’s cab. Also, covering the load with a tightly secured tarp can smooth the airflow, reducing drag. Be sure the tarp is snug, so it doesn’t flap wildly in the wind.

Hack #2: Optimize Weight Distribution

Minimizing the carrying of unnecessary items is another eco-hauling hack for saving fuel:

• Load Only What You Need: Perform a quick inventory check. Do you really need that extra toolbox or that piece of machinery on this trip? Every extra pound saved translates directly to lower MPG.
• Balance Your Load: As covered in our Ultimate Towing Guide, distribute about 60 percent of the cargo weight toward the front of the trailer. Proper load distribution prevents instability and sway, allowing the driver to maintain steady steering and speed, which reduces fuel consumption.

Hack #3: Choose the Best Trailer for the Job

Don’t tow a heavy-duty, oversized trailer like the Bigfoot 25.9KDO Super Beast Deckover when a lighter, single-axle Bigfoot Utility Trailer will suffice. Matching the trailer size to the load weight is crucial for reducing fuel consumption.

Hack #4: Drive Smarter, Not Fast

Driving habits have the most impact on fuel consumption. When towing, your speed matters more than ever. Use cruise control on flat terrain to avoid constant, wasteful acceleration and deceleration. If you do not have cruise control, use a light, consistent pressure on the accelerator.

• Moderate Speed: Fuel consumption increases exponentially with speed. Reducing your highway speed from 70 mph to 60 mph when towing can save 10% to 15% or more on fuel.
• Plan Your Route: Plan your route ahead of time and use GPS along the way to help avoid traffic accidents and road work that could cause lengthy delays and increase fuel consumption.
• Use Highways: drive on highways whenever possible to avoid “stop-and-go” traffic on busy surface streets. Look ahead to anticipate braking and traffic changes. Slowly coming to a stop and then gently re-accelerating uses far less fuel than sudden braking and accelerating.

Hack #5: Maintain Your Rig and Trailer

Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring components are working as efficiently as possible:

• Maintain Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires on both the tow vehicle and trailer dramatically increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption. Check tire pressure before every trip and maintain the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (often higher for trailer tires).
• Check Brakes: Ensure your trailer brakes are not dragging, which adds unnecessary resistance and weight to the tow.
• Engine Tune-Up: Keep the tow vehicle’s engine, filters, and fluid levels maintained for peak performance and efficiency.

Optimizing Design for Fuel Efficiency

Bigfoot trailers are engineered for safety and efficiency. Our models, such as the Bigfoot Deckover Trailers and Car Haulers, often feature low-profile designs and high-performing Dexter axles to minimize vertical wind resistance and ensure proper tongue weight. Tongue weight is the downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer coupler, and it’s essential for safe towing. A well-balanced tongue weight drastically reduces dangerous trailer sway and the need for constant, fuel-wasting driver corrections.

Best Equipment Trailers for Sale Near Me

By investing in a well-balanced, ruggedly constructed trailer, you are making a conscious choice to lower your long-term fuel costs and secure a safer haul.

Bigfoot offers a comprehensive line of bumper-pull and gooseneck trailers, handcrafted in the USA and optimized for short- or long-haul applications. With our factory-direct service throughout the entire Eastern United States, as well as additional locations in Jacksonville, FL; Lakeland, FL; Raleigh, NC; New York, NY; and by appointment with retailers in Fort Myers and Marianna, FL, you can be confident in the quality of our trailers. Contact us at https://www.bigfoottrailers.net/ for a free quote, and our team will guide you through the process, including our financing and rent-to-own options. Ask about our rent-to-own option!