BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 03 - Before Heading Out

Towing Your Boat

When driving, remember that your vehicle is longer and heavier than it was before the trailer was attached.

To drive safely with a boat trailer in tow, you should:

Increase your speed slowly and drive at a slower speed than normal
Make wider turns to allow for the trailer
Allow for greater braking distance
Use extra caution when driving in windy, rainy, foggy or icy conditions

Remember that you must follow provincial and local laws for trailer licensing, registration and operating lights. Always practice towing, driving, and backing up with your trailer in a controlled environment before heading out on the road.

How to attach the trailer to your vehcile:

STEP 1:: Ensure that the trailer is properly balanced and level.
STEP 2:: Position the trailer so that the hitch ball is directly below the trailer’s coupler.
STEP 3:: Lower the trailer’s coupler on to the hitch ball so that it is securely fastened, lock the trailer latch and secure it using a cotter pin or lock.
STEP 4:: Using tie down straps, securely fasten the boat to the trailer.
STEP 5:: Attach the winch cable and/ or winch safety chain to the bow eye of the boat.
STEP 6:: Insure that the trailers safety chains are securely fastened to the hitch. Chains should be long enough to accommodate tight turns, but short enough so that the tongue of the trailer cannot touch the road if it becomes dislodged from the hitch.
STEP 7:: Fasten the trailer light hook-ups to your vehicle and check that all lights are working properly.