When someone says ‘trailer’, people will picture many different types, so let us outline 3 common types, as well as their cargo.
Utility Trailer
Many people will use Utility trailers to move tools, materials, or anything they can’t fit in their vehicles. Commonly, these will have walls to keep everything secure inside, and is usually fairly small in size, when compared against the other trailer types. Tools are sadly another item targeted by thieves, so ensure you have the latest forensic marking technology.
Flat Bed Trailer
Whether your flatbed has a gooseneck, drop bed or is just… flat, chances are its used to transport a range of vehicles or heavy material. We’re going to focus on those transporting ATVs, PWC and/or motorcycles designed for track; all of which have Datatag Security Systems available to fit.
Horse Trailer
A very common and desirable trailer thanks to its specific purpose of moving horses’. This trailer will usually house 1 to 2 horses’, however, there are larger models capable of housing many more. These are different to a horsebox which is commonly a van directly adapted to transporting horses. Conveniently, we also offer an Equine Security System.
5 Top Tips for handling your trailer
Checks
Much like your vehicle, it is recommended you do a range of pre-travel safety checks. To begin with, make sure your license covers the trailer you’re wanting to tow. You can check whether you’re able to tow on the .gov website – Towing with a car: What you can tow – GOV.UK. Next, ensure all lights function as intended, all FOUR mirrors are adjusted correctly, and all tyre pressures are correctly set (Both vehicle and trailer!). Whilst doing these safety checks, walk around the trailer to ensure the cargo is strapped down correctly, and that the trailer is attached correctly.
Preparation
So, your trailer and vehicle are ready, now it’s time to prepare for the road ahead. Read the manual of your vehicle/trailer to make sure you understand what is required and how it changes the handling of your vehicle. Understand the extended braking distances, slower acceleration, and a larger turning circle, which is why its recommended to plan your route in full ahead of your journey. Think about suitable petrol stations whilst avoiding tight and thin roads wherever possible.
Weight Distribution
Almost all trailers are designed with weight appropriately distributed between the axle (Roughly the middle) and tongue (The front). You should load all your heavy items at the front, preventing them from ending up in the back of your trailer, or on the back bumper. You also need to make sure the weight is evenly distributing along the axle, to prevent it from pulling to one side. If your trailer is for vehicles, try to load them as far forward as possible. Loading your trailer correctly will make towing much easier & safer, whilst making sure it doesn’t fishtail.
Emergency Avoidance
Should your trailer start to sway, gently let off the accelerator to begin slowing the vehicle roughly 10-15mph beneath the speed it started to sway. Keep the steering wheel straight whilst trying to avoid harshly applying the brakes or letting off the accelerator, as these sudden changes will only worsen the situation. Once you have brought the trailer back under control, stop wherever safe & possible to do so, and check your load.
Security
Security is another important aspect to consider when purchasing, towing, or using a trailer; with some manufacturers quoting over two years for replacements! So, make sure you add your trailer to national trailer Database by fitting a Datatag Security System. A Datatag Security System which will not only deter thieves in the first place, but aid in recovery should the worst happen.
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