Do you have a few small items to move? Are you planning to take your ATV to the trails for the first time? Both of these scenarios may see you opting to use a trailer for the first time. Using a trailer is an effective way to move anything from garden rubble to other vehicles.
With the trailer hire Melbourne locals rely on, you won’t have to borrow or purchase a trailer. Opting to hire a trailer is often more cost-effective and allows you to work at your own pace and schedule rather than trying to fit in with a professional mover or tow truck.
Beginner Trailer Towing Pointers
Some people make connecting a trailer look very easy. The reality can be somewhat different when you’re attempting to do it by yourself for the first time. It’s with this in mind that our experts have compiled a list of tips to help take the intimidation out of your first trailer towing session.
1. Choose the Right Trailer for The Job
The number one rule for hiring a trailer is to choose the right model for the type of cargo you want to tow. Despite serving the same function, trailers come in varying sizes and capacities.
Lighter trailers are single-axel while heavier trailers are double-axel. Always discuss your exact towing needs with your rental agent. This is so that they can recommend the safest, and most effective trailer for the cargo you need moved.
2. Capacity is Essential
Trailers have different load capacities, meaning the trailer you need will depend on the combined weight of your load. For instance, the type of trailer you use to move garden rubble will be lighter and smaller than the one you use to move your ATV to the trails.
You will also need to ensure that the vehicle you’re using to tow the trailer is capable of towing the weight of the trailer with the cargo on. Vehicles with drivetrains may not be stable enough to tow a trailer. It’s recommended that you use a large vehicle or SVU to tow larger trailers, especially if you’re towing long distances or on sandy roads.
3. Towing with Company is Always Better
If you’re a first-time trailer user, experts recommend asking a friend for help. Ideally, the other person should have trailer towing experience so that they can assist with the loading and hooking up.
When two people are performing the necessary road and trailer checks. Ensure that you have a fully charged mobile phone with you as well as an extra set of ratchet tie-down straps.
4. Trailer Checks are Crucial
Reputable Australian trailer rental companies will always ensure that the trailer you hire is in proper working order. Despite this, you should always perform your series of checks to ensure your safety as well as that of other people on the road.
The most significant checks to do include the following:
- Only hire from a reputable and credited rental company: The golden rule in trailer rental is to use a company that offers quality trailers. This will ensure that the trailer is road-worthy and properly licensed. It’s essential to highlight that you will be responsible for any fines, road safety violations, and accidents.
- Inspect the tyres: Check the trailer tyres the same way you check your vehicle’s tyres.
- Check sides: Trailers with sides should have latches keeping the sides secure. Test these to ensure they aren’t loose.
- Test the tow hitch and safety chains: These are the basic connections that keep your trailer connected to your vehicle. Check for damage, wear and tear, and crack-free.
- Test the lights: No matter how short the distance is that your moving items, you should always check the lights, indicators, and brakes. Never use a trailer where these don’t work.
- Invest in ratchet tie-down straps: Always buy tie-down straps that match the weight of the cargo you’re moving. Lighter straps may snap or not secure your items safely. The general rule of thumb in logistics is to tie your load with two straps. If one breaks, you will always have the other one as backup. This will keep your load secured even if one strap snaps.
5. Plan and Prepare for Your Journey
No matter what you’re moving, our experts recommend taking the time to prepare for your journey. Don’t get on the road with a “see what happens” mindset. Here are a few tips to make planning easier:
- Choose a quiet time of the day so that you don’t feel overwhelmed with the trailer in peak traffic.
- Schedule a few stops along the way and use these to check that everything is still securely tied down. Double-check the lights.
- Avoid choosing a remote route as you’re less likely to get help if you break down.
Final Thoughts
Trailer hire has made it remarkably easy for anyone with the right towing vehicle to move everything from furniture to motorbikes. Follow our tips and you’ll be on your way toward a successful first towing experience!
