Chip Trailer Safety Tips: Protecting Cargo and Drivers

You’re a professional, and when it comes to transporting cargo in your chip trailer, safety is of paramount importance. Because these trailers are used to transport bulk items such as wood chips and mulch, careful attention to detail is always necessary.

We’ll take a closer look at some important safety tips you should keep in mind to protect yourself, your drivers and your haul. 

How Do I Make Sure My Chip Trailer Is Safe?

First, let’s review some basic safety guidelines that should always be part of your regular routine:

Regularly Maintain Your Trailer

There’s simply no substitute for regular maintenance and inspection. Not only does this allow the chance to check for signs of wear and tear, but it can pinpoint problems before they result in accidents.

Remember, just because your trailer is being maintained doesn’t mean you have to miss out on jobs. If repairs are needed, you can always take advantage of our rental program. This helps ensure you get the right trailer for the right haul, right now—when it’s needed most.  (Check out our earlier article on the 10 advantages of working with our rental program.)

Ensure That It Is Loaded Properly

Pay careful attention to the specifications in regard to weight and size. Anytime you overload a trailer, it’s prone to tipping and instability–and this is even more so with chip trailers. This can also affect your brakes. To be sure your chip trailer is safe, distribute the load evenly. 

Make Sure the Cargo Is Secured

When cargo shifts during transit, it not only damages the trailer, but it can cause serious accidents. That’s why we encourage you to use the appropriate straps and tie-downs to secure your haul.

Don’t Forget Your Tire Pressure!

Although this doesn’t necessarily involve your trailer directly, it does have a huge impact on the safety of the driver and the cargo. Always check your tire pressure before hitting the road. The last thing you want is a dangerous blowout or difficulty handling your trailer. 

Special Concerns Of Chip Trailers on the Road

According to the US Forestry Service, there are certain considerations when it comes to operating chip trailers.

Traditional forest roads were initially designed for long trucks. These trucks have higher ground clearance in addition to a tighter turn radius. By comparison, chip trailers and vans need wider curves. They also have a higher center of gravity. 

Ensure that you are familiar with both the grade and slope of the area you’ll be visiting.

When You Need the Right Trailer, We’ve Got What You Need

When you don’t have the right equipment, you miss out on profitable jobs. As a result, your business suffers. Even worse, if you get a good job and you’re unable to deliver the load safely and without damage, your reputation is ruined.

A successful business—and a profitable venture—always starts with getting the right trailer.

Not sure where to get started?

It’s simple. Just a short call to Pinnacle Trailer Sales and we’ll set you up with an MVP evaluation. This will help us determine the trailer that will be a perfect fit for your needs. All you have to do is call 800-513-9373.