Safety Tips for Hauling A Cargo Trailer
A cargo trailer is heavier in weight and longer and wider than your commuter vehicle. Additionally, the weight of the bulky items you intend to haul with it can make towing a cargo trailer a little different from regular driving.
That’s why the experts at Bill Howich RV & Marine have put together this guide to help you familiarize yourself with safe towing practices. If you need more tips on safely hauling your trailer, visit us in Campbell River, British Columbia.
Vehicle & Trailer Maintenance
Regular maintenance will ensure that your towing vehicle and cargo trailer are both in good condition. However, before you set out, you must take a closer look at both vehicles to make sure you are ready to go. You will want to check the tire pressure to maintain the recommended psi levels, test the lights and brakes, inspect the oil in the towing vehicle, and fill up the gas tank.
Know the Weights and Towing Capacity
Overloading a cargo trailer can not only damage it but is also a safety hazard. So, before you start loading it, you will want to keep a few parameters in mind, such as the gross vehicle weight rating, the gross axle weight rating, towing capacity of your vehicle, and the tongue weight (amount of the trailer’s weight on the hitch).
At the same time, avoid underloading your trailer as this can lead to swaying during high wind conditions. Evenly distribute the weight from left to right and from the front to the rear of the trailer by putting more weight near the hitch. Remember to secure all the items to prevent them from moving around in the trailer and getting damaged.
Maintain Proper Distance
You’ll require planning to bring your cargo trailer to a complete stop. You’ll want to increase the distance between you and the traffic ahead of you, which will give the trailer more room and time to let the brakes activate. Also, you must use the rightmost lane of traffic and avoid frequent changing of lanes. If you had to change lanes or take a turn, remember to signal ahead of time to alert other drivers.
Watch the Traffic Ahead
Besides maintaining an appropriate distance, you’ll also want to be aware of the traffic conditions ahead of you. These include traffic congestion due to bad roads, road construction, and accidents. Knowing about the flow will help you prepare well in advance for slowing down or changing lanes.
We hope these tips will help you safely haul your cargo trailer. If you need more tips or some assistance in maintaining your trailer, visit Bill Howich RV & Marine in Campbell River, BC. We are happy to serve all those in Courtenay and Nanaimo.