Summer is finally here, and that means great deals and new activities are kicking off. Whether you’re planning a day of exploring great finds at a flea market, landscaping, or donating items to a local charity, renting a trailer is exactly what you need. We’re here to share important trailer tips with you to make your summer activities easier.
Connecting your trailer
So, you’re renting a trailer, but do you know how to connect it? Although U-Haul can connect your trailer for you, it’s always good to know how to do it yourself. Therefore, some important tips you should know are:
- How to securely attach the hitch ball to the ball mount
- How to connect the safety chains underneath the trailer tongue, making sure the safety chains are not too long to where they will drag.
For a step-by-step visual process on how to connect your trailer, click here.
60/40 rule
When it comes to loading your trailer, it’s important that you load 60% of your cargo weight in the front and 40% in the back. This may include larger items such as:
- Appliances
- Heavy furniture
- Tools
Check out a quick demonstration below.
Practicing these safe trailer tips when loading your items will help with weight distribution in order to prevent the trailer from shifting/swaying. Whether it’s your first or third
time towing a trailer, it’s important to always remember the following steps.
- Lighter goes lower – put lighter-weight items at the bottom of your load
- Reduce your normal speed to 55 MPH
- Avoid sharp turns
- Drive slightly past your normal turning point and then onto the outside of the lane you are entering for smoother turns
Disconnecting your trailer
As you approach the end of your trailer rental, it’s important to know how to disconnect the trailer. To start:
- Don’t hesitate to ask a U-Haul team member for help.
- Make sure your trailer and tow vehicle are parked on a level surface. This will make the unhitching process easier and prevent the trailer from shifting/rolling.
- Place blocks/wedges under the trailer in front and behind the tires to keep it from rolling during the unhitching process
- Disconnect the safety chains
For more detailed steps on how to disconnect, click here.
Now that you know our trailer tips for the summer, you’re ready to start securing your rental today.
