How to Pull a Loaded Livestock Trailer

Pulling a loaded livestock trailer requires the right equipment and a lot of know how. Luckily, it is a teachable skill. If you have a load to move, hitch up and follow these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Make sure you have the proper hitch configuration for the load you are carrying. A hitch alone is not enough. You may have to add weight distribution bars to safely tow a loaded livestock trailer. Read the sticker that comes with the hitch for instructions. Weight distribution bars are available at trailer supply stores and equipment stores or wherever a hitch is sold.
2. Be certain your hitch can be frame-connected and not attached to your bumper. Gradually, the weight of a loaded livestock trailer will pull the bumper off your truck.
3. Check the rating of the hitch ball. Generally, the thicker the shaft of the ball, the more weight it can safely carry.
4. Read the rating on the slide-in mount of your trailer. It should match that of the ball, and the ball should fit within the mount without any play or looseness.
5. Confirm that the coupler on the trailer has the same rating as the ball and the slide-in mount.
6. Drive slowly when you tow your loaded livestock trailer. Since the load you are traveling has a center of balance above the floor, and the load has a tendency to move during transit, give your animals as smooth a ride as possible.
7. Do not stop suddenly unless absolutely necessary. This helps to ensure a smooth ride for the animals in the trailer.
8. Take your corners in a wide curve. Do not turn quickly. The length of the loaded livestock trailer and your truck makes sharp turns hazardous. You also don't want to throw your animals off-balance while turning sharply. The trailer could tip.
9. Use your turn signal when turning. Since you will take wider than normal turns, you will need more space and time to turn. Use your turn signal to warn those behind you to give you some distance.
10. Mark your loaded trailer clearly. Put reflective stickers on the back of the trailer with "live load" or something similar to indicate what you are carrying. This will warn other vehicles to give you room.