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Dump trailers add convenience to any number of projects you might take on. Whether moving to a new home or tackling a construction job, the compact trailers are easy to transport and store. They're also built for extensive use and can withstand the weight of heavy cargo. If you're new to using tow vehicles, learning how to load and unload them correctly will ensure the trailer's longevity and your safety.

How Do You Load a Dump Trailer?

Before loading, park the dump trailer on a firm and even surface. While it may not be workable with every project, take the extra time to try. A soft or unsteady surface can cause the tow vehicle to overturn and maintaining weight distribution more challenging. Overloading the rear can cause the trailer to lurch and sway when traveling at highway speeds. Don't place too heavy of a load in the front of the trailer, either. The extra weight strains the hydraulic hoist, leading to potential failure. 

Load the heavy items on the trailer's floor. Make sure they’re over the axles, which will carry most of the vehicle's weight and cargo. Place extra items to maintain equal side-to-side weight distribution. Also, take the tongue and hitch into account, as they take on the weight that the axles don't. 

It's preferable only to load items that you intend to dump. For safety, tow vehicles should not be used to transport hazardous or flammable substances. They're dangerous due to their volatility and because the shifting liquid makes it difficult to maintain safe weight distribution when the trailer is in motion. Never transport livestock or people on dump trailers. 

However, if a trailer has fold-down sides, you can side-load bulk items or equipment. 

How Do You Unload a Dump Trailer? 

Dump TrailersAgain, park the trailer on stable ground once you're ready to unload. Check the rear tires to make sure the treads aren't worn and that they're not halfway flat. If they are, the tires might blow out as the weight shifts to the rear. Use an industrial jack to replace worn tires before dumping. If they're halfway flat, fill them with a portable air compressor. 

Raise the bed slowly and only as needed. Going too fast and too high might cause the trailer to jackknife along with the attached truck. If there's a problem when unloading, don't lower the bed too fast. The sudden shift can make the trailer and truck flip over. Lower it incrementally and readjust the cargo as needed. 

 

From weekend to long-term projects, dump trailers will make your job smoother. For nearly 30 years, Smith Trailers and Equipment, Inc. has lived up to their motto of: "reliable, dependable, and always ready." This Cincinnati, OH, business has well over 200 trailers on their expansive lot. They only sell the highest quality units that will stand the test of time. For the convenience of their customers, they also stock trailer-specific supplies that auto retailers don’t have. Visit their website to view their current inventory. To learn more about their financing plans, call them at (513) 755-2497. 

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