3 Common Box Trailer Strapping Mistakes

22 November 2019
 Categories: , Blog

Share  

You've bought a box trailer, and it is time to hit the road. What next? There is a lot that goes into the loading a box trailer, and safety takes centre stage. Notably, it is vital to secure the loads in your box trailer properly to avoid mishaps. However, while most people understand the importance of securing loads in a box trailer, few individuals do it correctly. If you make a mistake with securing the load, you open up yourself for safety hazards. This article highlights common mistakes you should avoid when tying down loads in a box trailer.  

Not Securing Loads From all Sides

When you load a box trailer, it is critical to remember that loads move up, down, backward and forward. Regrettably, most people only factor in the up-and-down movement, especially when the box trailer is packed. Therefore, most people secure the load to prevent it from moving up and down. However, since a load can move back and forth during transit, you should strap it from all sides to prevent movement in all four directions. It will ensure your box trailer stays stable for a smooth journey.  

Leaving Heavy Loads Unsecured

A common misconception among first-time box trailer users is that heavy loads hold their ground during transport. If you think that a heavy load will be held down by its weight, then you should think again. Light and bulky goods move just as easily during transport. This occurs regardless of your truck's speed or how closely the goods are packed in the box trailer. Therefore, don't merely ignore the heavy loads and secure the light ones hoping everything will be alright in a box trailer. Secure each piece regardless of how light or heavy it is.  

Relying on Standard Restraints

Depending on the box trailer manufacturer, some models come equipped with restraints. It is a plus because the restraints eliminate the hassle of buying the accessories separately. However, you need to be careful with standard issued restraints because they are not designed for versatility. It can be a problem given the differently shaped cargo you will be carrying in your new box trailer. From lawnmowers to furniture, the restraints must be versatile enough to strap all manner of loads. For instance, if you want to secure your bike in a box trailer, the straps should be versatile to secure the bike as well as your couch if it is part of the load.