How to Use Trailers to Haul ATVs

Using a trailer to haul your ATV is the best way to transport the vehicle. Sure, you could carry it around in the bed of a pickup truck, but it will only be a matter of time before you damage your rear window, and you would be out of luck if you had more than one ATV. For most people, using a trailer is really the only way to go.

Instructions

1. Make sure that your vehicle has a trailer hitch attached to the rear bumper. Many trucks are sold with a trailer hitch attached as standard equipment, while many cars are unable to support a hitch. If you have a truck that does not have a hitch attached, you can buy a hitch and ball from a hardware store or auto parts dealer.

2. Decide how big of a trailer you need. This depends largely on how many ATVs need to be hauled. Standard trailer choices are usually between a short trailer for carrying a single ATV, or a longer model for carrying 2 ATVs. There are a variety of styles and trailer lengths available, but the primary concern is how many ATVs you need to transport. Once you have answered that question it will be easier to obtain a trailer that meets your needs.

3. Attach the trailer to your vehicle's trailer hitch. To do this, crank the hand crank on the trailer to elevate the hitch end of the trailer slightly. Once the trailer is elevated, back your vehicle up so that the ball on your trailer hitch is situated directly under the hitching mechanism on the trailer. You can do this on your own with practice, but may need a friend to guide you back the first few times you try it. Once the ball is in place, use the hand crank to lower the trailer on top of it, and lock the connection in place. The trailer is now firmly attached to your vehicle and ready for towing. If connection points are available for lights, plug them in.

4. Attach the ramps to the loading end of the trailer. Your trailer will come with two ramps, which can be propped onto the edge of the trailer and used to load vehicles, such as ATVs. The loading end is typically the rear of the trailer, allowing you to drive straight up onto the trailer bed. Some trailer models may also offer side loading, where you place the ramps on the side of the trailer and pull up sideways. Consult the retailer who sold you the trailer for the most effective loading and unloading techniques.

5. Secure your ATVs with tie down straps. These straps will prevent your ATVs from moving freely on the trailer in the event of a sudden stop or a fast acceleration. Anchor one end of the strap to a fixed position on the ATV, such as the frame or the axle. Secure the other end to the side rail of your trailer. The straps should include a ratchet mechanism that you can use to remove any slack from the strap, giving it a tight, secure fit that will prohibit any movement. Make sure to put straps on both sides of the ATV.

Tips & Warnings

• Many people like to leave the ATV in gear while it is being hauled, to further restrict any movement of the wheels.