How to Trailer Your UTV (Do's and Don'ts)
Before your off-road adventures begin, trailering your UTV safely and securely is the first challenge. Whether you're heading to the dunes, trails, or job site, mastering the basics of UTV transport ensures your ride gets there in one piece. Let’s break down the do’s and don’ts of towing your side-by-side so you can focus on the fun—not the frustration.
Best Trailer Options for Towing a UTV
Choosing the right method of transportation depends on your vehicle size, towing capacity, and travel distance. Here are the most popular UTV trailering solutions:
🚚 Truck Bed Transport
For smaller ATVs, a pickup truck may suffice. Use ATV loading ramps and secure the vehicle tightly. Always cushion the front of the bed to protect your rear window during loading or hard stops. Most UTVs, however, are too large for truck beds—consider a dedicated UTV trailer instead.
🔓 Open UTV Trailer
Lightweight, cost-effective, and perfect for local hauls, open trailers are ideal for most UTVs. With built-in tie-down points, open trailers handle wide and tall vehicles easily. For multiple UTVs, a double-axle trailer provides better balance and payload capacity.
🔒 Enclosed UTV Trailer
When protection is a priority, enclosed trailers are your best bet. Great for long-distance trips and secure storage, they shield your ride from the elements and theft. Choose between aluminum (lightweight and rust-resistant) and steel (durable and rugged). Add escape doors for easy exit after loading.
How to Trailer Your UTV: Step-by-Step
- Secure the trailer to your tow vehicle and engage the parking brake.
- Lower the trailer ramp on a flat surface.
- Drive your UTV slowly onto the trailer, using a spotter if possible.
- Distribute weight using the 60/40 rule: 60% of the load in front of the trailer axle.
- Strap it down with heavy-duty ratchet straps at all four corners.
✅ Do’s of UTV Trailering
- Drive cautiously: account for your trailer’s added length and width.
- Check lights: inspect brake lights, indicators, and deck lights before departure.
- Pack emergency gear: include a winch, spare tire, jack, and tool kit.
- Monitor your load: adjust mirrors and re-check tie-downs at rest stops.
⛔ Don’ts of UTV Trailering
- Don’t overload: Stay within your trailer’s GVWR and your tow vehicle’s limits.
- Don’t ignore tongue weight: Too much or too little can cause sway or loss of control.
- Don’t skimp on tie-downs: Always use the correct number and type of straps.
How to Secure a UTV on a Trailer
UTVs can weigh over 2,000 lbs—improper securing puts your vehicle and others at risk. Use the right gear and follow this simple guide:
🔧 What You’ll Need:
- Four heavy-duty ratchet straps (3-4 inches wide)
- Wheel nets or wheel chocks to keep tires from shifting
- Safety chain for backup protection
🔒 How to Tie Down Your UTV:
- Anchor straps to trailer corners and connect to UTV frame (never plastic parts).
- Crank straps tightly with a ratchet to eliminate slack.
- Block the wheels using wheel chocks or nets for added stability.
- Attach a safety chain to keep the UTV secured even if straps fail.
Inspect all straps and gear for wear before use—frayed or rusted tie-downs should be replaced immediately.
How to Unload Your UTV
Once you've arrived, unloading should be slow and steady. Park on a level surface, remove all straps, and lower the ramp. Gently reverse the UTV down the ramp using brakes as needed. Then, lock your trailer, gear up, and hit the trails!
