You need to consider the gross weight of your trailer before towing it. This is the total weight of the trailer and the contents inside, including food, water, and bikes. It is also important to consider how much of the weight of your cargo is on the tongue. A trailer must be safe to tow up to the GVWR of your tow vehicle. This figure should be on the trailer’s front roadside sticker, so make sure you check it before you tow.

Before you start to drive, make sure the trailer is properly loaded. At least 60 percent of the cargo should be in the front half of the trailer box. The cargo should not extend past the rear of the trailer. You should also secure your cargo before you set off, and the speed of your trailer should be 55 miles per hour or less. To avoid any mishaps while driving, always follow the following tips to ensure your trailer is properly loaded:

The first trailers were lightweight, flexible canvas sided, and were built for carrying cargo. The canvas sides were adjustable so that the cargo could be stored or unpacked without disrupting the traveling experience. The roof of the trailer was typically raised for use and lowered for travel. The beds slide in under the main roof and crank down to rest on a fiberglass or aluminum lower portion. Modern trailers are also known as “toy haulers” and are often used to haul a motorbike, an ATV, or a bicycle.

When towing a trailer, you should use a hitch that distributes the weight evenly. You can buy a weight distribution hitch kit that includes the hitch and spring bars. This is important because wind gusts, high speed, and passing cars can all affect the stability of the trailer. If you’re using a conventional hitch, the ball must be attached to the receiver’s ball. Adding airbags to the hitch won’t increase the towing capacity of your trailer, but they will ease the pressure on your tow vehicle.

You have 30 days from purchasing the trailer to title it. However, if you don’t, the sales tax will be imposed. If you purchased your trailer outside of the state, you must show proof that you’ve paid the sales tax on it. Otherwise, you’ll be required to pay the difference between sales tax and the state tax. A homemade trailer may have special inspection requirements. You must provide proof of the lien release to avoid the penalty.

Make sure your trailer is fully loaded before towing. A trailer that has evenly distributed weight will perform better and handle safer. When loading, try to store heavier items near the floor and in the center of the trailer. Lighter items can be stored in upper cabinets. You should also secure your luggage inside the RV to avoid damage to your RV. If you plan to use the trailer to haul a boat or a moving trailer, you should use the proper safety equipment and license plates.