LOADING & UNLOADING A FLATBED TRAILER
6.3 DISTRIBUTING THE CARGO
Couple the trailer to the tow vehicle before loading. This is essential for the bumper pull trailer
because the tongue of a bumper pull trailer can rise during loading, before the cargo is properly
distributed. To measure the tongue weight, you will have to uncouple the trailer after it is loaded.
substances, such as gasoline, kerosene, paint, etc. The exception is fuel in the tank of vehicles
or equipment being hauled.
WARNING
on your trailer. The exception is fuel in the tank of vehicles or equipment being
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hauled.
PREPARING THE TRAILER FOR LOADING
Before loading cargo onto the trailer:
• Inspect the deck of the trailer for corrosion or damage; and
• Inspect the hold down openings and/or “D”-rings. Hold down openings must be sturdy with no
visible cracks or kinks. D-rings must be tight to the deck and must not be bent.
If the deck or any required hold-down is damaged, do not load the cargo. Bring the trailer to your
dealer or a competent repair service before using it to carry cargo.
WARNING
-
come loose on the trailer. Loose cargo can shift the center of gravity, and result
them for looseness before loading cargo. Do not use a damaged or loose hold
down or “D”-ring to secure cargo.
D-Ring Ratings:
Size Rating
3 Inch D-Rings 5,000 Lbs.
4 Inch D-Rings 15,000 Lbs.
LOADING A RIGID-DECK TRAILER
Before loading trailer, couple the trailer to the tow vehicle and make sure the deck is level. Do
not load or unload the trailer when the deck is not level.
while loading and unloading.