How To Transport an ATV With a Trailer

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are the rugged workhorses of off-road adventure and utility. Whether you're a seasoned rider tearing up trails or a farmer relying on your quad for daily chores, one thing's certain: at some point, you'll need to transport your ATV.

If you have a pickup truck, some riders choose to load up their ATV into the truck bed and take it from there. While that works for some, the steep loading angle and tight squeeze can be offputting. It's much easier to move an ATV with a trailer and gives you more maneuverability to properly secure it once it's in place.

What to Know Beforehand

Make sure you know your ATV's weight and dimensions before you start, as well as your vehicle's towing capacity. For detailed information on towing, read Towing: What You Need to Know and Towing Safety Tips & Tricks.

Choosing the Right Trailer: Our Simple Guide

Before you even think about loading up your ATV, you need the right trailer for the job. This isn't a place to cut corners. Think of your trailer as the foundation of a house: a shaky foundation means a shaky house. Similarly, a subpar trailer will make for a difficult, and potentially unsafe, transport.

Single ATV Trailers

• Ideal for solo riders or transporting a single, heavy-duty utility quad.
• Built tough with heavy-duty steel construction.
• Feature durable tie-down points for maximum security.

Multiple ATV Trailers

• Perfect for hauling more than one ATV.
• Accommodate two or three ATVs, depending on the model.
• Many models feature convenient side-loading ramps.
• Designed with the same high-quality materials and thoughtful engineering as single ATV trailers.

Folding and Utility Trailers

• A versatile option that can be used for hauling ATVs, though not their primary purpose.
• Important to select a model that can handle your ATV's weight and dimensions.
• Side-loading ramps are a valuable feature to look for in these models, as well.

Choosing the Right ATV Ramp for Your Trailer

If your trailer comes with built-in ramps, you're golden. If it doesn't, then you will need to shop for the right ramps to safely load your ATV into your trailer. The longer the ramp, the more gentle the gradient; however with every extra inch of ramp you'll be paying more. The smartest way to choose an ATV ramp is to identify how long your ATV ramp should be based on your ATV specs and trailer dimensions. You'll be able to make an informed purchase withouth spending more than you need.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Loading Your ATV on a Trailer

Once you've selected your trailer, it's time to get your ATV ready for transport. Here's a straightforward guide to guarantee a smooth and safe loading process:

1. Hitch Up: First things first: securely hitch your trailer to your towing vehicle. Double-check the connection, ensuring the hitch is properly engaged and the safety chains are connected. It might seem obvious, but this step is often overlooked, and it is very, very important.
   
2. Ramp It Up: If your trailer has built-in ramps, deploy them. Ensure they are firmly seated on the ground and aligned with your trailer. If you're using separate ATV loading ramps, position them carefully, making sure they are stable and can support the weight of your ATV.
3. Prepare Your ATV: Check your ATV's tires, ensuring they are properly inflated. Engage the parking brake and put the ATV in neutral.
4. Take It Slow and Steady: Drive your ATV up the ramps at a slow, controlled pace. Maintain a steady throttle and avoid sudden movements. A spotter can be helpful here, guiding you and ensuring proper alignment.
5. Park and Secure: Once your ATV is fully on the trailer, position it according to the trailer's weight distribution guidelines. This usually means centering the ATV over the trailer's axle. Engage the parking brake and shift the ATV into park.
6. Tie It Down: Now comes the crucial part: securing your ATV to the trailer. Use high-quality ratchet straps, attaching them to designated tie-down points on your ATV's frame. Avoid attaching straps to handlebars or other delicate components; using soft loops if necessary. Cinch the straps down tightly, ensuring your ATV is firmly anchored to the trailer.
7. Complete Final Checks: Before hitting the road, walk around your trailer and give everything a final once-over. Check the hitch connection, safety chains, lights, ramps, and tie-down straps. Make sure all is snug and secure.

Keep this in mind: transporting an ATV is a big responsibility. Drive defensively, maintaining a safe following distance. Take turns slowly and avoid sudden braking or acceleration. Periodically check your mirrors and, if possible, stop at safe locations to inspect your trailer and ATV. Some simple steps can keep you - and others - safe on the roads.

Got the Trailer? Now Get the Gear

It's time to transport your ATV with confidence! You've got the ATV, you've got the trailer, now it's time to get it loaded and tied down. Calculate the loading ramp length you need and shop for ATV loading ramps

Forget the stress and the guesswork. No more white-knuckle drives wondering if your ATV is going to become an unexpected hood ornament. Discount Ramps provides the rock-solid foundation you need. We’ve got the gear, you bring the grit. So, hitch up that trailer, secure your ATV, and point your rig towards the horizon. Adventure is calling. The trails are waiting. Go get some mud on those tires!