How to Pull an Unloaded Livestock Trailer

Pulling a full livestock trailer has its share of difficulties. The load must be evenly distributed, you have to account for the movement of the livestock and you must take breaks to keep the animals safe and healthy. An empty livestock trailer obviously does not require the same precautions; but pulling any empty trailer of any kind does require you to be aware of the road, the weather and have the trailer properly hooked up. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Drive carefully to minimize the shaking and bouncing of the empty trailer. Without the weight of the animals, the trailer has a tendency to bounce over even the smallest bumps in the road. Staying alert allows you to avoid large holes or bumps in the road that can damage your trailer.
2. Pay attention on windy days or when traveling over bridges. Large empty trailers are easily blown sideways by the wind. Avoid passing other vehicles or traveling at a high rate of speed during windy times or in windy areas.
3. Double check that your trailer is securely attached to your vehicle before starting your trip. A run-away trailer is the easiest way to damage your property and others.
4. Check the electrical hook up to the trailer. Your lights must be working properly to indicate to other drivers that there is a trailer attached to your vehicle. Other vehicles can easily rear-end your trailer if the electrical is not working properly.
5. Inspect the trailer after pulling it unloaded. Any damages that occur while towing an unoccupied livestock trailer must be immediately fixed. Any damages to the trailer can potentially cause injury to the next load of animals.

Tips & Warnings

• It is best to thoroughly clean your livestock trailer after transporting a load of animals. You should always properly clean your trailer before transporting another load.