5 Safety Tips for Towing and Dumping a Trailer

Safety should always be your top priority when operating heavy equipment. Follow these 5 crucial rules to ensure a smooth rental experience.

1. Always Dump on Level Ground

Never engage the hydraulic lift if the trailer is parked on a slope or uneven terrain. A raised dump bed shifts the center of gravity drastically, and an uneven surface can cause the trailer to tip over, potentially taking your truck with it.

2. Cross Your Safety Chains

When hitching up, always cross the safety chains under the tongue. In the rare event the trailer disconnects from the hitch ball, the crossed chains will catch the tongue and prevent it from digging into the pavement.

3. Use the Safety Prop

If you ever need to inspect or perform maintenance under a raised dump bed, ALWAYS engage the physical safety prop or lock. Never rely solely on the hydraulic pressure to keep the heavy steel bed suspended.

4. Check Your Trailer Brakes

Loaded dump trailers are heavy and require their own braking system. Ensure your vehicle has a functioning electronic brake controller and test the trailer brakes before hitting the highway.

5. Tarp Your Load

It's not just a courtesy; it's the law. Always secure the built-in tarp over your load to prevent debris from flying out and smashing the windshield of the car behind you.