First-Time Car Hauling: A 10-Step Checklist
First-Time Car Hauling: A 10-Step Checklist
New to towing? Follow these ten steps for a smooth first run.
By Scott — Copper State Trailer Rentals • August 17, 2025 • 3 min read
Use this 10-step checklist to prep, load, and tow a vehicle safely on your first run. Follow each step, and you’ll reduce risk, save time, and protect your equipment.
10-Step Checklist
Verify weights. Check your tow vehicle’s GVWR/GCWR and the car’s weight. Leave margin for gear and fuel. Use this Tow Capability Calculator to: Find Your Towing Capacity by VIN, Make, or Model
Hitch & height. Level the trailer. Secure coupler, latch, and safety pin/lock. Cross safety chains under the tongue. See Diagram and Video link below for more information.
Brake controller. Proportional is ideal. Start with a medium gain, test at 20–25 mph on a quiet street. See Video link below for more information.
Lights & breakaway. Test running, brake, and turn lights. Clip the breakaway cable to the vehicle frame.
Ramp & deck prep. Sweep deck, set wheel chocks, and stage straps before loading.
Load orientation. Drive/pull the car on with about 10–15% tongue weight. Low cars? Use ramp extensions or a winch.
Tie-down points. Use axle straps or control-arm points; avoid soft lines and fragile undertray panels. Use four points minimum. See Video link below for more information.
Strap geometry. Aim for 30–60° down/forward angles. Tighten evenly; re-torque after 5–10 miles. See Video link below for more information.
Mirror, speed, space. Keep right, add space, and cap your speed. Watch for crosswinds and semis.
Post-trip check. Inspect hot hubs/tires, strap wear, and any rubbing.
See Video for more information - https://youtu.be/II3MTMYpfzA?si=6Sv4sfHT683d2ggJ
Target 10–15% tongue weight for stable towing.
Video Resources:
Do’s and Don’ts of Tying down your Vehicle - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20BGXn8zhkk&t=6s
To Cross or NOT to Cross Explained - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zw7pICnfzU&t=22s
Pro Tip
Take a photo of your tiedowns before you leave. If you recheck at fuel stops, you can compare tension/placement.
When tightening down your ratchet straps... be sure to get 2 to 3 full rotations of the ratchet to assure the strap stays tight and doesn’t work loose.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a brake controller? A: Yes—use a proportional controller for smoother, safer stops.
Q: How tight should straps be? A: Tighten evenly until there’s no slack; recheck after 5–10 miles.
Author: Scott — Copper State Trailer Rentals. We are a customer service company… that just happens to rent trailers.
Tags:
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