If you've decided to rent a trailer to tow your car for your cross-country move, there are some things you'll need to know. Towing a car trailer will add a whole new dimension to your travels, especially if this is your first experience with a trailer. Before you load up your car and take off, here are a few precautions you should understand. These tips will help prevent any problems with your trailer.

Know Your Weights

When it comes to towing a car, there are some weights you'll need to take into consideration. Knowing the specific weight restrictions that you're working with will help prevent overloads.

Curb Weight

Your curb weight is the total weight of the vehicle you're going to be towing. This weight includes everything in the car, including gasoline and other fluids.

Cargo Weight

Your cargo weight is the total weight of the vehicle you'll be towing, the additional cargo you'll be hauling in the moving truck, and all of the passengers.

Maximum Payload

Your maximum payload is the total weight that your rental truck can handle. When renting a truck and trailer, be sure to rent a truck that can accommodate the weight you'll be moving.

Check Your Mirrors

After you have your trailer loaded up, be sure to check your side view mirrors. Your rental truck will not have a rearview mirror, which means your side view mirrors will be the only way for you to watch for traffic, as well as keep an eye on the trailer you'll be towing. Sit in the driver's seat and make sure that you have a clear view on both sides of the truck. If you have difficulty seeing with the side view mirrors, consider renting mirror extensions. The extensions will increase the area of visibility that you'll have around the truck and trailer.

Inspect the Lights

Before you hit the road, take a moment to inspect the lights on both your truck and trailer. Make sure that your all of your lights illuminate properly, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. Once you're on the road, you should do a safety check of your lights at each stop along the route. This will ensure that you catch problems before a broken light gets you into trouble during your trip.

If you're going to be towing a car trailer behind your rental truck, be sure you follow the safety tips provided above. For other helpful tips, be sure to speak to a rental agency, like Route 12 Rental Co Inc.

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