Opting for a trailer permits small enterprises, gardeners, and building firms to handle costly tools svelte and sound thereby cutting down on operating costs and ensuring more maneuverability in daily business. It is a severely responsible move, and if you are using a trailer for the first time to haul big machines, it is very important to know the security rules and regulations. We routinely rent trailers in Calgary, we are more than happy to provide professional insights into the complexities of heavy machinery transport.
Decoding Load Ratings and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the indicator of the heaviest load a trailer can take, which means, the weight of the trailer is also included. For people who often car trailer rental or dump trailer rental, it is essential to know the accurate weight of their equipment.
Before loading up, ponder over the following factors:
- The true weight of the machinery through either the manufacturer’s data or certified scales.
- Extra parts, attachments, fuel, and securing materials.
In addition to GVWR, find out the towing capacity of your vehicle – the maximum weight that can be safely pulled by it. This fact reflects:
- The chassis and braking system.
- The transmission and engine.
In case you are a beginner to the trailer rental service, inform us about the models of the machinery that you will be moving. We will guide you to the most suitable trailer and also advise on the requisite tie-down equipment.
The Importance of Using the Right Tie-Down Points
All heavy-duty equipment comes with points specifically made for securing during transportation which consist of lifting rings; tie-down loops, or reinforced frame elements. Apart from that, trailers have their dedicated anchor points meant for straps and chains. It is very crucial to use these particular spots; otherwise, the improperly secured cargo can end up damaging the machinery or even getting detached whilst in motion.
Points to remember:
- Chains, straps, or cables must always be chosen according to the particular load and its anchor points.
- All systems must be designed to accommodate the weight with a safety margin – at least 1.5 times the load weight. For mini-excavators and skid steers, a minimum of 4 independent tie-down points in a “cross” pattern is highly suggested.
- Before the vehicle leaves, check all the straps and chains for wear, damage, and deformation.
- After traveling a few kilometers, stop and check the tension; vibrations can make the tie-downs slack.
If you go for Calgary trailer rental with us, you can be confident that the trailers we provide come with certified anchors. Also, heavy-duty ratcheting straps and loading equipment including specialized ones can be rented out.
Here are the Loading Techniques for Skid Steers and Mini Excavators
When loading a machine, whether it is tracked or wheeled, weight distribution and stability are very important and should be given utmost care. Laws that are very fundamental should be followed.
Preparation:
- Place the trailer on a surface that is flat and stable.
- Put the parking brake on the towing vehicle.
- If there are chocks for the wheels, use them.
- Check that the ramps are unbreakable, of the right size, and that they are at an angle of ≤ 15–20°.
During loading:
- Keep the boom of the mini-excavator or loader down and back in position.
- Make the movements slow and controlled, and do not accelerate suddenly or turn sharply.
- Pull in all the stabilizers or leveling blades to minimize the risk of hitting the trailer structure.
Weight distribution:
- Adhere to the “60/40” rule: 60% of the weight should be in front of the axle of the trailer, and 40% behind it.
- For the mini-excavator with a cab, the heavy end (engine) should be at the front.
- The center of gravity is determined by the distance from the hitch ball to the axles.
- Tongue weight should be in the range of 10-15% of the total weight of the loaded trailer.
Do not forget to add the cost of renting ramps, cables, and other necessary gear when calculating how much is a trailer rental. Do not use materials that are not meant for the purpose; loading must be done with proper ramps and hence safely.
When transporting heavy loads, driving precautions should be observed
Towing a trailer with a load means the driving technique must be changed—predictability and calm attitude are the main factors.
Before Taking Off:
- Choose a road that is well paved and has few sharp turns.
- If possible, do not include places with steep hills and heavy traffic in your route.
- Consult the weather forecast, particularly for wind and rain.
During Driving:
- Drive at a slow, steady pace, and follow the limits set for trailers.
- Double or even triple your distance to the vehicle in front of you.
- Use the brake gently and earlier than usual.
- Make no sudden changes to the steering wheel.
In Case of a Swaying Trailer:
- Don’t steer suddenly.
- Release the accelerator gently and do not slam the brakes.
- Keep the wheel in the same direction as the vehicle and let it slow down gradually.
Quick Reference: How Vehicle Behavior Changes with a Trailer
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Situation
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What Changes
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Action Required
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Braking
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Longer stopping distance
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Increase distance, brake smoothly
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Turns
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Higher inertia
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Reduce speed well in advance
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Acceleration
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Slow response
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Plan maneuvers ahead of time
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Side Winds
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Risk of swaying
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Reduce speed, maintain a steady course
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Bumpy Roads
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Increased stress on tie-downs
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Stop regularly to check security
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Modern trailers at Hetman Rental are equipped with efficient braking systems and suspension adapted for heavy loads, significantly increasing safety levels.
Maintenance Checks Before Your Haul
Even though we constantly perform maintenance and inspect our trailers, do not forget that the final check is on your side before loading. This inspection will take just a few minutes:
- Trailer Structure: A frame without any cracks, deformations, or rust; platform and ramps tightly locked.
- Tires (Vehicle & Trailer): Adequate tread depth, no cuts or bulges. Pressure checked “cold” according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Braking System: Surge or electric brakes working properly; no leak in hydraulics or broken wiring.
- Lighting: Running lights, brake lights, and turn signals should be working; reflectors clean and visible.
- Hitch & Safety: Ball hitch without play or cracks; locking mechanism fully engaged with safety pin installed; safety chains in place and crossed under the tongue.
Whether it is one-time hauling or ongoing business needs, Hetman Rental has the right solution for you at every scale. Give us a call to reserve a
trailer in Calgary – we will provide you with an accurate quote and dependable equipment that will not let you down on the job.
