Loading & unloading

Loading & unloading guide

Plan the load, secure it tight, keep people clear. Not sure on a step? See the attach guide or tipper guide. If anything's not right, don't tow, call 0420 399 277.

How to attach Operate the tipper

Before you load

  • Park on level ground and chock the trailer wheels.
  • Clear the area and keep bystanders well back.
  • Gloves and closed-in shoes on.
  • Ramps, tilt pins and latches checked, secure and locked.
  • Weight and balance planned, aim for about 10% on the tow ball.
  • Rated straps or chains ready, and your tie-down points picked.

How to load

  1. Plan the load, heaviest items in the front half, centred. Aim for about 10% of the total weight on the tow ball.
  2. Set up the ramps or tilt, and confirm the pins, latches and hydraulics are engaged and stable.
  3. Guide the load on slowly, use a spotter, and keep people well clear of travel and pinch points.
  4. Position for balance, avoid rear-heavy setups that cause sway.
  5. Park brake on for any vehicle, and chock the wheels.
  6. Secure with rated tie-downs (at least 4 for heavy items), pre-tension evenly, and cross the straps for stability.
  7. Final check, re-tension after it settles and again after 5 to 10 km.
Tip: keep the centre of gravity low, and put about 60% of the weight ahead of the axle.

How to unload

  1. Pick a safe, level spot, and chock the wheels if needed.
  2. Set the ramps or tilt, and confirm the pins and latches are secure.
  3. Release the tie-downs carefully, and stay out of any swing or fall zones.
  4. Control the descent with the winch or a low gear, never ride the load.
  5. Use a spotter, and keep bystanders clear.
  6. Stow the ramps and gear, and pull the chocks when you're done.
  7. Check the trailer over before you tow it empty.

Vehicles on the car trailer

  • Chock the wheels and tie down all four corners.
  • Use the winch for control, with straps securing the vehicle independently.
  • Check the tilt and ramp pins are fully engaged before moving.

Heavy equipment

  • Attach at low, strong points, avoid hoses and cables.
  • Pull straight onto the deck, don't side-load the ramps.
  • Use mats for tracked gear if needed.

Boxes, crates & fragile

  • Heavier items on the bottom, limit the stack height.
  • Pad or wrap to stop rub and vibration damage.
  • Net or strap loose items to fixed points.

Cage & enclosed trailers

  • Keep the doors and gates latched while loading.
  • Open slowly after travel in case things have shifted.
  • For mulch or gravel, spread it evenly across the floor.

Safety reminders

  • Weight limits: never exceed the trailer's ATM/GTM or your vehicle's tow capacity.
  • Restraint: use rated straps (look for the AS/NZS 4380 rating) and restrain the load in every direction.
  • Weather: add extra tie-downs and slow down in the wet or wind.
  • Be prepared: keep a first-aid kit and your roadside contacts handy.
  • New to towing? Start with light loads, or ask us first.
Remember: heavy weight forward and centred, straps tight, people clear. If you're unsure, don't tow, call 0420 399 277.
Not sure how to load something? Ask before you strap it down. Phone or SMS 0420 399 277, or jump in the chat.
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