First Trip with a Car Hauler Trailer: Essential Tips

• The hitch under load should sit level and horizontally, without looseness or play.
• Where possible for your trailer model, you should adjust the suspension or axles.
• Check the brakes and lights of the trailer to see if they are all properly connected and working.
• You may be required to inflate the tires, the pressure of which should be higher when the trailer is loaded.

• Make sure the level of all the fluids, but most importantly oil and coolant, are within the normal range, as towing has a tendency to overheat the engine.
• Always ensure the actual weight of the trailer and its load does not exceed the towing capacity.
• Adjust both side mirrors to fully see the trailer on each side. Additional mirrors may be required for better visibility.

• Disconnect the battery.
• Inflate the tires to recommended pressure level.
• Remove all loose items from inside that can shift and cause damage to the vehicle during transport.

If you book a trailer rental in Calgary with Hetman Rental, our team will give you an initial briefing on proper hitching and connection procedures. Likewise, you can also rent straps and other equipment from us, to let you safely transport any type of vehicle securely.

• Loading should be done on solid, level, and safe ground: avoid slopes, soft, or unpaved areas.
• Position the ramps suitably and lay them such that one end is firmly placed on the ground and the other on the trailer, without slipping.
• Make sure the load-the vehicle-is centered. If you can help it, the center of gravity of the car being moved should ideally be a little toward the front of the axle of the trailer for about 60% of its total weight to the front for maintaining the pressure at the towing hitch properly.

• Carefully and slowly drive the vehicle onto the car trailer. If there is a winch, use it — preferably with a controlled-tension cable — to pull the car on the trailer.
• With the vehicle in position, turn off the engine, engage the lowest gear or the “P” (park) position of an automatic transmission, and engage the parking brake.
• The wheels of the car on the trailer should be straight.

• Use tie-down straps that are certified and in good condition without any cracks or other visible wear. Strike a balance in the load by tightening gradually and evenly.
• Try to have at least four anchor points, two at the front and two at the rear. In fact, the eight straps-two for each wheel-are even better to hold the wheels from slipping.
• The safest type is wheel wrapping, as it securely holds the car down to the trailer. You can also hook the strap up around the axle or suspension springs.
• Remember to always lock the steering or secure it.

• Always begin driving slowly and become accustomed to the feel of it. You should never increase your speed until you are confident.
• Expect a much longer braking distance and begin slowing down sooner to brake smoothly.
• Allow for wide, slow turns, keeping in mind that the trailer will have a tighter radius and could possibly clip the curb or drift into the oncoming lane in sharp, tight turns.
• If driving on slippery surfaces such as ice, snow, or gravel, drive carefully and avoid wheel spin or sudden steering movements.
• Be particularly careful when overtaking or a truck overtakes youThe air turbulence can be enough to knock the trailer off balance. Smooth movement without oversteering.
• Avoid abrupt lane changes with a single-axle trailer. A sudden movement will create unwanted torque and can cause swaying.

• Keep extra straps and tensioners available for those that will break and when one finds loose connections at the initial visual inspection.
• Have a complete spare tire for the trailer in good condition, inflated and ready to install, equipped with a proper jack and lug wrench.
• Bring along a tire repair kit for minor problems that one can easily and quickly repair to drive to the nearest repair shop.
• A flashlight should be carried along for inspections or repairs in dark places, with extra batteries.

• Gloves to work with when tightening straps, one rain jacket waterproof, and solid shoes are highly recommended because you never know in what weather you will have to make an adjustment of straps.
• A full tank can give additional confidence on longer or less well-known routes.
• Also, store a simple supply of water and food, as a sudden gridlock or a breakdown might keep you roadside longer than previously anticipated.

• Underestimating the overall weight of the vehicle and the trailer by assuming the towing vehicle or the trailer is capable of withstanding the weight.
• Incorrect securing methods may be the use of only two straps.
• Using inappropriate fastening devices, such as chains or ropes instead of certified straps.

• Excessive speed, especially on poor or sharp-bending roads.
• Any sudden acceleration or hard braking, sharp turns, or evasive actions.
• For example, not considering the effect of wind or gust on bridges, and at the time of passage of trucks.

• Not checking the straps when driving – during the trip, the strap may become loose.
• Improper pressure of the tires, where underestimation may result in overheating and a blowout.
• Faulty lighting.

We offer Flatbed Trailer Rentals in Calgary and know everything about different types of trailers and the specifics of their use. We provide an initial briefing, can assist with loading, and if the task is very demanding – you can order our transportation service. Contact us, we are available almost 24/7 and ready to help!