Boat Trailer Safety and Launching Tips

When towing a boat, it is important to secure the boat before driving away. Investing in the correct winch to pull the boat onto the trailer is important. There are lots of options - powered or manual.

Are you new to boating? If so, consider some practice at your ramp - or any ramp to improve your backing. Rolling down both lanes of a dual lane ramp isn’t a good idea.

Trailer thefts from boat ramp car parks are common. Make sure your is secured - we have put this guide together for security devices.

AT THE RAMP

When launching

• Don’t forget to check the bungs are in!
• If you have a SUV consider popping the back for better visibility when you back down.
• Don’t forget to remove the rear strop before backing down.

Important:

• Beware of tides and know where the end of the ramp is.
• Handbrakes aren’t enough - your car needs to be in gear too when parked for launching

When retrieving

• Put the chain on when driving up the ramp.
• Don’t forget the safety flag!

In this guide, we will cover the basic trailer towing rules and some trailer towing tips.

LIGHT MOTOR VEHICLES

• On a learner or restricted car licence (Class 1) you can tow a trailer but the combined weight of your vehicle, the trailer and its load must not exceed 4500kg.
• On a full licence the combined weight of your vehicle, the trailer and its load must not exceed 6000kg.

SAFE TOWING GUIDELINES

• Refer to the car manufacturers recommendations before towing a trailer, in particular the weight limits recommended.
• Refer to the loading limits for the tow bar you are using.
• Be aware that overloading and uneven loading of car trailers can seriously affect a car’s handling. Additional gear you stow for holidays etc should be over or just forward of the axel(s).
• You must be able to see behind that old trailer or vehicle. if you can see behind with your rearview mirrors, you may need to fit a special mirror.