Renting a trailer can make hauling equipment, furniture, recreational gear, or debris removal a breeze—but only if you’re adequately prepared. Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned hauler, it’s essential to understand what type of trailer you need, how to tow safely, and what to expect before pickup. At Load’em Up Trailers, we make the process simple, transparent, and safe for every customer.
1. Choose the Right Trailer for the Job
Not all trailers are built the same. Selecting the right one depends on what you’re hauling:
◦ Dump Trailers: Ideal for dirt, gravel, brush, mulch, or construction cleanup.
◦ Utility Trailers: Great for landscaping, moving, or small equipment.
◦ Enclosed Trailers: Perfect for protecting your cargo from weather or theft.
◦ Deckover: Designed for transporting vehicles or heavy machinery wider than the 82" wheel-well limitation.
◦ Car Haulers: Designed for transporting vehicles or machinery.
👉 Tip: When in doubt, tell us what you’re hauling—we’ll recommend the best trailer for your needs and ensure proper weight capacity.
2. Check Vehicle Towing Capacity
Before renting, confirm that your vehicle can safely tow the trailer and load you plan to carry.
You can find your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and towing capacity in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s label inside the driver’s door. Always ensure:
- ◦ The combined weight of your vehicle, trailer, and load stays below the rated capacity.
- ◦ You have the correct hitch class and ball size for the trailer.
3. Understand Hitch and Connection Requirements
Load’em Up Trailers provides a variety of trailer styles, including ball coupler, pintle, and gooseneck. When you arrive for pickup:
- ◦ Bring your hitch and pin (or you can rent one from us).
- ◦ Make sure your 7-pin or 4-flat plug is functional for trailer lights.
- ◦ Verify the trailer is connected and secured correctly.
We’re happy to walk you through proper hookup procedures during your rental checkout.
4. Plan for Safe Loading and Weight Distribution
Improper loading is one of the biggest causes of trailer sway or loss of control.
Follow the 60/40 rule—place 60% of your load in front of the axle and 40% behind. Also:
- ◦ Distribute weight evenly side-to-side.
- ◦ Secure all cargo with straps or tie-downs.
- ◦ Keep heavier items low to the deck.
5. Inspect the Trailer Before You Leave
Before you hit the road, we’ll walk you through any questions you may have and discuss features of the trailer. We will take pictures of the rental trailer before leaving the rental lot. It is always important to double-check:
- ◦ Tire pressure and good tread condition.
- ◦ Working brake lights and turn signals.
- ◦ Proper latch engagement on coupler.
- ◦ Safety chains crossed and connected correctly.
- ◦ Breakaway cable is properly secured (if applicable).
- ◦ Ramp pins and gate latches secure.
We maintain our trailers to high standards, but your final walk-around ensures peace of mind.
6. Know the Rental Terms
At Load’em Up Trailers, we believe in clear and simple agreements—no hidden fees, no surprises. Please check out our FAQ section on our website to ensure you understand rental expectations. Standard rental terms include:
- ◦ Valid driver's license, insurance, and credit card are required.
- ◦ All daily rentals are for a 24-hour period. We do not have partial-day rentals. We also have weekly and monthly rental options.
- ◦ We require notification before going out of state, as there may be a charge depending upon distance.
- ◦ All pick-up and return of rentals need to be during open business hours.
- ◦ The renter is required to return the trailer in the condition received.
We’ll explain everything up front and send you home with the paperwork and contact info in case you need help during your rental.
7. Drive Smart and Stay Safe
Safety is our top priority—yours and everyone else’s on the road.
When towing, give yourself more space for braking and turning. Take it slow on corners and downshifts. Avoid sudden lane changes and maintain steady speeds. Always:
- ◦ Check mirrors frequently.
- ◦ Keep longer following distances.
- ◦ Use lower gears on downhill grades.
- ◦ Stop periodically to re-check your load.
- ◦ Ensure brake controller is set correctly and adjust as the load adjusts.
8. Returning the Trailer
When you’re done, return the trailer during open business hours. Make sure the trailer is swept out, free of debris, and in good condition to avoid charges. To review our business hours, click here.
Ready to Get Rolling?
Renting a trailer doesn’t have to be complicated. At Load’em Up Trailers, we’re here to help you find the right equipment, understand how to use it, and tow with confidence.