Cargo Trailer Loading Tips
The right strategies can help you load your cargo trailer safely and efficiently. Keep reading for trailer loading tips, then visit 1st Choice Trailers to shop cargo trailers for sale. Our dealership is located in Goddard, Kansas, and we also serve those in Wichita.
Know the Weight Limits
Your tow vehicle and your cargo trailer both have limitations on the amount of weight they can legally and safely handle. Check the owner's manual for both to find out how much cargo you can transport at one time. Remember to factor in the weight of any passengers into your trip's final weight total.
Follow Weight Distribution Strategies
It matters where you place weight onto your cargo trailer. Weight distribution can affect everything from the difficulty of towing the cargo trailer to the health of the cargo trailer's tires.
A few weight distribution tips:
- Try to place about 60% of the weight in the front half of the cargo trailer (also known as the half that is closest to the tow vehicle).
- Put the heaviest items in the front section.
- Distribute weight evenly from the left side to the right side of the cargo trailer.
- Load lighter items near the top of the cargo trailer.
Secure the Items
Try to avoid having loose items inside the cargo trailer. These can shift about during the tow process and end up damaged. Pack items up into containers, secure them using bungee cords, and use other such strategies to keep everything secure.
Double Check Your Work
Before you hit the road, do one last pass through.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are all of the items secure?
- Is the weight properly distributed?
- Is your cargo trailer correctly connected to your tow vehicle?
- Are all of the tires in good condition?
Make sure your cargo trailer, tow vehicle, and cargo are all ready for a safe and stress-free drive.
Loading a Vehicle Into a Cargo Trailer
Sometimes, the cargo may be a vehicle. For example, maybe you want to take a golf cart to the course or a dirt bike to a trail head. This loading process will require a few extra steps for a safe towing experience.
First, get the vehicle inside the cargo trailer. This usually involves walking or slowly driving it up a ramp.
Once it is safely inside, compress the vehicle's shocks about halfway.
Next, take ratchet straps and secure the vehicle's suspension.
Then, use D-ring tie-downs to secure the rest of the vehicle.
Finally, walk around and tug at the vehicle from different angles. If anything is too loose, you can add extra D-ring tie-downs. Make sure the vehicle is secure before hitting the road.
Want more cargo trailer loading tips? Looking to shop cargo trailers for sale? Whatever you need, the experts at 1st Choice Trailers are here to help. Contact us or stop by our dealership in Goddard, Kansas. We also proudly serve those in Wichita, Kansas.