There’s nothing quite like getting out on the open road. Whether you’re planning a family getaway at the lake or a trip to your favorite campsite, you need a dependable vehicle that gets you where you need to go. Towing a boat, camper or another heavy load requires a vehicle that’s up to the task. At Marcus Allard Truck Rental, we rent out all kinds of trucks to our clients that are perfect for a road trip. Before you set off on your trip, be sure to review the basics of safe trailering.
Know Your Payload
Vehicles can only tow so many pounds. Review the amount of weight that your vehicle can tow. Our vehicles are able to tow most standard-sized trailers and boats. Our pickup trucks have around 10,000 to 12,000 pounds towing capacity. Know your payload before you take off to make sure your haul will stay safe. Trying to tow something that’s too heavy can cause engine damage and strain on the vehicle. If you have any doubts, just talk to our team and we’ll help you find the right vehicle.
Review the Basics
The day of your trip is arriving quickly, and you’ve booked your rental. Before you leave, make sure everything is in good shape. Check your vehicle’s visibility, tires and hitch. You want to confirm that everything is good to go before you take off. Of course, our team carefully inspects each vehicle before we hand it over, so you don’t need to worry. However, taking a moment to review your vehicle will give you peace of mind.
Slower Is Better
Anytime you are hauling a camper or a boat, you don’t want to race off to your destination. Get there safely by driving slowly. Slow driving is a must when hauling big items, especially if you have never done so before. You will need to acclimate yourself since it’s not the same as you are used to. With an entire heavy extension added to the back of your vehicle, there’s a different feel to driving it. Be careful when making turns and pulling onto roads. Be aware of your back end to keep you and other drivers on the road safe. Keep in mind that it will be harder to see what’s behind you. While driving, stay in the right lane to let fellow travelers pass you so you can keep a slow pace.
Attach the Trailer Correctly
Maybe you are a pro at attaching a hitch if you’ve been on many vacations. But if you are new to trailering, make sure you know how to attach your hitch to the rental truck. There are several important parts you need to be aware of, such as the ball mount shank. Review these parts before attempting to attach the hitch so you do so safely.
Get Started On Your Trip
The first step to a successful vacation begins at Marcus Allard Truck Rental. We have so many vehicles in store for you. Trailering is something that’s easier to handle once you learn the ins and outs. If you would like to explore our pickup trucks, give us a call and we’d be happy to help you find the right one for you. Call or send us a message to get started.
