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Tips To Hauling Safely

Hauling is big business. When hauling, your trailer and tow vehicle must be ready to tackle the terrain, weather, and road conditions you may experience along the route. So, safety is paramount, whether it’s transporting vehicles to a job site with a car hauler, carrying tractors to the other side of a farm, or relocating a tiny home across town. Here are Bigfoot Trailers’ seven big tips for hauling safely.

quality and trusted trailers in Tampa FLTip #1:  Pre-trip inspection

Before loading up and hitting the road, ensure your tow vehicle, hitch, and trailer are in good working order. Check your tire pressure, lights, brakes, and fluid levels.

Tip #2: Avoid Overloading

Always ensure that the combined weight of your trailer and vehicle does not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Overloading poses serious safety risks and potential fines. Additionally, ensure your load is evenly distributed and securely fastened with tie-downs to prevent shifting or falling out during sudden stops.

Tip #3: Use the right hitch 

Not all hitches are the same. Check your trailer’s owner’s manual to ensure you have the correct hitch for your tow vehicle and trailer weight. Using an incorrect hitch could cause damage to your trailer, vehicle, and payload.

Tip # 4: Distribute the load

Avoid placing heavy and bulky items on one side of the trailer. Distributing the load’s weight more evenly will improve handling and hauling stability.

Tip #5: Adjust brakes

If your trailer brakes require manual adjustment, follow the manufacturer’s servicing guidelines to prevent brake failure. Bigfoot Trailers have automatic self-adjusting brakes, so manual adjustments are not necessary.

Tip #6: Stay alert

Whether your trailer is full or empty, it is critical to stay alert, especially at night. Pay attention to the weather conditions, road signs, and traffic. 

Tip #7: Drive defensively

Always keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. When changing lanes, signal well in advance and make sure it is clear before you move over.

Tip #8: Don’t rush 

Be aware of your speed, follow traffic signs, and don’t rush, even when running late. Hauling a trailer requires more time and effort than driving a car. It’s better to arrive late and safely than to risk getting into an accident.

Tip #9: Allow time to stop 

Remember that a trailer takes longer to stop than a sports car you may be accustomed to. Larger loads and trailers require even more time to come to a complete stop. Instead of slamming on the brakes, gently apply the pedal to give your load enough time and space to stop safely. 

Tip #10: Plan for emergencies

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Having a plan will avoid confusion during an emergency. This plan should include knowing what to do if your trailer breaks down, you get into an accident, or you encounter severe weather.

In addition to the above tips, here are a few other things to keep in mind for hauling safely:

  • Connect your safety chain to your trailer and vehicle. If the trailer disconnects from the coupler, it will prevent a runaway.
  • Stay informed about rules and regulations in the areas you will be traveling through. Regulations regarding hauling loads can vary from state to state or even in specific areas like mountain roads. Being aware of and adhering to these regulations is not just a legal requirement, but also essential for hauling safely. 

Trailer hitch install in Richmond, VABigfoot Trailers for Sale Near Me

Bigfoot delivers premium handcrafted trailers built in the USA. We’ll help you select a utility, tilt, or custom trailer with the safety features you need for hauling your loads! As a factory-direct manufacturer, we provide service in the entire Eastern United States with locations in Atlanta, GA; Charlotte, NC; Naples, FL; Washington, DC; and by appointment with retailers in Fort Myers and Marianna, FL. Contact us for a free quote.