6 Expert Tips First Time Trailer Users Should Know

Image from Melbourne Trailer Hire

Trailers can be very handy. They make it easy to move a whole variety of items that would otherwise be difficult to transport. This plan works for everything from furniture when you’re relocating to moving damaged vehicles from point A to point B. 

Another plus point is that car trailer hire makes it so much easier to get the trailer you need at an affordable price for the period you need it. Using the right trailer and towing vehicle will minimise a big chunk of any moving stress. 

Tips That Will Make First Time Towing a Breeze

If you’ve never towed a trailer before, the thought of it can be quite distressing. There’s the stress of driving with a heavy load and the risks of what could potentially go wrong. Depending on the trailer you need to use, some may be more difficult to hook up than others. With this in mind, our experts have compiled a list of top tips on how to have a safe and successful towing experience.

Read through these tips before you attempt your first tow. 

Tip #1: Hire the Right Trailer for the Job

Different trailers are specifically designed to haul various items. It’s important to mention the type of load you need to move when talking with the rental agent. That way you’ll be certain that you’re getting the right trailer for the job. 

For instance, moving furniture requires a type of trailer with closed sides so that the furniture can be secured to the sides using tow straps. You should never move furniture or other cargo on an open car trailer. All reputable trailer rental agencies offer furniture trailer hire as one of their top services. Insist on the right trailer for the job. 

Tip #2: Perform a Few Basic Checks

There are a few simple checks you should perform every time you rent a trailer. The most important include the following:

  • Always use a reputable towing company: This will ensure that the trailer is road worthy and fully licensed. Using an unlicensed trailer will leave you liable for accidents or fines. 
  • Check the tow-hitch and safety chains: The tow-hitch and safety chains should be secure, and free of cracks or damage. This will keep the trailer firmly connected to the towing vehicle. 
  • Inspect the tyres: Trailer tyres must be inspected the same way you’d inspect your car tyres. The same rules apply. 
  • Test the lights: Check the trailer lights and ensure that they are working. They should work in sync with your car’s lights, indicators and brakes. 
  • Tug on the sides: If you’re using a trailer with sides, give them a slight tug to make sure they’re sturdy.

Tip #3: Assess The Towing Vehicle’s Capacity

It’s crucial to double-check the towing capacity of the vehicle that’s going to be towing the trailer. Some vehicles have drivetrains that aren’t sturdy enough to tow a trailer. Here you also need to consider the weight of the load you’ll be putting on the trailer. 

Tip #4: Load Correctly

When it comes to loading the trailer it must be loaded as evenly as possible. With even weight distribution in mind, follow these tips:

  • Load heavy items to the middle of the trailer to centre the weight
  • Smaller items can be loaded at the back and front
  • Use weight-appropriate towing straps to secure your items
  • Always use two towing straps for heavy items – this ensures that there’s always a tied strap in case one snaps
  • Place transport blankets between the tow strap and the item to prevent damage to your furniture
  • Remove drawers and shelves from any furniture items to prevent anything from flying off the trailer

Tip #5: Perform Safety Checks Along the Way

No matter how experienced you are with towing a trailer, our experts recommend that you stop every few kilometres to check on the load. Doing this will ensure that everything is still tied down the way it should be. 

Be sure to tug the tow straps to ensure that nothing has come loose. Check the lights and tyres as well before setting off on the next part of your journey. If you’re nervous about driving alone, ask an experienced friend to drive with you. Your partner can then keep an eye on the trailer and traffic while you focus on the road. 

Tip #6: Choose a Quiet Time of the Day

Another top tip to consider is the time you choose to make the trip. Where possible, avoid peak time traffic and opt for quieter roads. This will ease some of the pressure of dealing with traffic as well as keeping an eye on your load. 

Final Thought

Towing a trailer requires some practice and patience. You should also add extra driving time to your journey if you’re going to tow for a long distance, so you can have regular stops to rest your eyes. Asking a friend to drive with and assist will go a long way to keeping your nerves in check. Our simple tips will turn you into an expert tower in no time!

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