While towing a trailer, you are responsible for not only the cargo you’re transporting, but also your safety and that of surrounding drivers on the road. Therefore, you must prepare correctly and take the necessary precautions to ensure smooth and successful hauls every time.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hauler looking for a refresher, keep reading to discover Mytee’s best trailer safety tips.
Essential Equipment for Towing a Trailer
Having the right tools and accessories with you ensures more control over your vehicle and overall peace of mind.
Here are some essential tools to have on hand when towing a trailer.
- Basic Toolkit: Your toolkit should include screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, hammers, nails, and screws. It’s also important to have safety gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a flashlight.
- Towing Equipment: Towing equipment includes items like tow straps, chains, and load binders. These are crucial for securing the trailer and ensuring the safe transport of any additional loads.
- Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks sit against the wheels of your trailer to prevent it from rolling or moving. They are crucial for optimal safety during the loading and unloading processes.
- Winch Cables: If you have a trailer in tow that is holding another vehicle, it’s essential to have several winches and winch cables at your disposal to help you load the car easily.
- Tire Maintenance: Proper tire inflation is essential for preventing trailer sway during your haul. Be sure to pack a pressure gauge and the proper wrenches.
How to Safely Tow a Trailer
Once you’re stocked with the right tools and equipment, you can start preparing for your haul. Below are a few important safety tips to follow when towing your trailer.
1. Match Your Trailer & Hitch
Mismatched trailers and hitches can cause swaying or disconnections that can put your cargo and the surrounding drivers at risk of injury. Whether you prefer adjustable hitches or drop ball mounts, make sure to find the best fit for your trailer to ensure safety and security.
2. Balance Load Weight
When loading cargo into your trailer, it’s recommended that you follow the 60/40 Rule, which means that 60% of cargo weight should be near the front half of the trailer, while the remaining 40% should be placed near the back.
3. Inspect Before You Go
Before you hit the road, perform a thorough inspection of your tire pressure, brake lights, hitch connection, and tie-downs. This check will reduce the risks of malfunctions midway through the drive that can affect overall safety and performance.
4. Accelerate & Brake with Caution
Because braking takes longer when towing a trailer than with a passenger vehicle, it’s important to keep a safe following distance and allow yourself more time to stop. Additionally, keeping a consistent and appropriate speed can help minimize trailer sway.
5. Always Stay Aware
Check your mirrors regularly and stay aware of your surroundings on the road, especially when you are backing up and turning. Trailers turn differently depending on their length and weight, so be sure to allow yourself enough space and time.
6. Keep Your Setup Secure
During those much-needed breaks while making long hauls with a trailer, ensure your setup is secure before it’s out of sight. Bring all valued items with you when leaving the area to avoid theft, and use wheel chocks to lock the trailer in place.
Haul Safe with Mytee Products
When towing a trailer, you should always put safety and preparedness at the top of your priority list. By stocking up with the right gear and taking the proper precautions, you can guarantee smooth and efficient hauls every time.
For high-quality trailer equipment and parts that will keep you hauling safely through every obstacle, check out what we have to offer at myteeproducts.com today.
