In Canada, strict cargo securing rules are outlined in the National Safety Code Standard 10, which is mandatory for all commercial transport vehicles across the country — regardless of province or territory. While experienced carriers know how to transport even oversized loads safely, those renting a cargo trailer occasionally must take the time to understand and follow these rules carefully.

To reduce risk, follow these four core principles:

• Friction — ensure there’s enough grip between the cargo and the trailer floor. Securement — use strong, reliable tie-down equipment.
• Containment — apply dedicated cargo trailer accessories such as straps, nets, blocks, or wedges, depending on the type of load.
• Weight distribution — avoid imbalances that could affect handling and stability.

Always check the condition of your securing gear before departure, and inspect it regularly during stops along the route.

Always use all available accessories for your motorcycle cargo trailer to ensure safe transport. Motorcycles have a high centre of gravity and no side support points, which makes them prone to shifting with every turn or bump.

• The motorcycle should be positioned front-wheel forward, in the front third of the trailer’s cargo space to maintain proper weight distribution. Use a non-slip loading ramp and assist the bike during loading to prevent slipping.
• The main tie-down method involves tension straps that compress the front fork by about one-third of its travel.
• Attach the straps to solid parts of the frame — never secure them to plastic components.
• The rear wheel should be held in place with a wheel chock or rear strap to prevent movement during braking.

Finally, stabilize the bike with side straps acting as lateral tie-downs.

Sport bikes with low handlebars often require special adapters to compress the front fork without damaging the bars. Choppers and cruisers with longer wheelbases need a properly sized bike cargo trailer and careful weight distribution. Common mistakes include securing only the handlebars, skipping side stabilization, using inadequate straps, or anchoring to unreliable points. Plan your first stop after about 10 km, and recheck your straps at least every two hours while on the road.

First, check the load capacity of both the trailer and the towing vehicle — the loaded car must not exceed these limits, including the trailer’s own weight. Position the car so the tongue weight is between 50–100 kg, typically by placing it near the front third of the trailer platform. If the trailer has tracks or guide rails, drive up slowly — ideally with a spotter. Not sure how to properly secure a car to a trailer? We’re here to help you.

• The main method of securing is through the wheels: use at least one strap per wheel, pulled diagonally and attached to solid anchor points on the trailer. Use wheel straps, or protect the rims with covers or sleeves.
• To prevent forward or backward movement, use wheel chocks or additional straps from the front and rear of the vehicle to the trailer. Never attach straps to plastic parts or structurally weak areas.
• The parking brake should be engaged, and the vehicle should be in park (or in first gear for manual transmissions).
• Remove any loose items from the interior and trunk to avoid damage during transport.

Low-clearance sports cars may require special ramps or lifts. SUVs need extra securement due to their higher centre of gravity. Classic cars benefit from additional strapping and padding to prevent cosmetic damage. Common mistakes include using too few straps, anchoring to unreliable points, neglecting weight distribution, and failing to monitor the load during transport.

The core principles of load securing are consistent: assess the weight and dimensions of your cargo, and check the trailer’s load capacity to ensure you’re within legal and safe limits.

• Weight distribution is key to safety. Heavier items should be placed toward the front of the trailer to maintain balance during turns and braking, and to reduce sway. Tongue weight should be between 4% and 10% of the total load — around 7% is considered ideal. Too little, and the trailer may sway; too much, and your vehicle’s handling will suffer.
• The most common method of securing cargo is with tie-down straps — use at least two straps per metre of load. Direct securement is the most reliable: straps should pass through strong anchor points on both the load and the trдailer. Never attach straps to plastic parts or weak structures.
• Chains are best suited for extremely heavy loads — they’re weather-resistant and durable, though heavier and more rigid to work with. Cable systems combine the benefits of chains and straps and are typically used by professionals. A hybrid approach — using straps with chocks or anti-slip mats — significantly increases stability. Trailer frames and side posts provide added lateral support.

Long beams and pipes should be tied down at multiple points. Cylindrical items like bars or tubing need wedges. Loose materials should be contained in bins or covered, while liquids must be stored in specialized tanks. If you’re moving something unusual and aren’t sure how to properly secure a load on a trailer, our team is ready to advise and provide the right trailer and securement setup for your cargo.

Before hitting the road, always perform a final inspection of your load and trailer — it can prevent serious accidents. Make sure the electrical connection between the vehicle and trailer is secure, and that all signals — brake lights and indicators — function properly and in sync.

• Verify that every item is correctly positioned and firmly secured. Use a tension gauge to check strap pressure — avoid over-tightening, which can weaken or snap the straps.
• Inspect the breakaway cable and electrical socket — both should be functional and properly protected.
• Ensure the vehicle and trailer are level, with no tilting. Avoid overloading any axle beyond its rated limit.

Carry all required documents with you: driver’s licence, registration, cargo documentation, and applicable permits. After driving a few kilometres, pull over and recheck all straps and fasteners.

Not everyone owns a trailer, which makes cargo trailer rental a practical and cost-effective solution for occasional hauls. Hetman Rental offers a wide selection of cargo trailer options to meet different needs. Our professional consultants will help you choose the right trailer based on your cargo’s weight, size, and transport requirements — all in line with securement regulations and driver licensing standards. We also provide hands-on training in proper load securement — essential for first-time users — and offer optional loading support for heavy or bulky items. All Hetman Rental trailers undergo regular maintenance and feature modern lighting and robust securement systems. Contact us to discuss rental terms or get expert advice on cargo securing.