Choosing the Right Equipment

• Choose a low deck height. A purpose-built trailer with a between-the-wheels deck has a wider axle stance, providing a lower centre of gravity for better handling and rearward visibility. A flat deck on a pickup is lower than an over-the-box deck, minimizing the distance you or your ATV can fall if your procedure “goes sideways.”
• Look for “drive-on / drive-off” configurations. Ramps that attach to either side of the deck (or front and rear) avoid the need to back down the ramps. This capitalizes on every rider’s superior forward visibility and balance control (compared to backing) and reduces risk of critical errors.
  
• Built-in ramps are there when you need them. Better yet, built-in one-piece / folding ramps avoid risks associated with improperly aligned or insecure two-piece ramps.
• Use a ramp system that positively locks onto the tailgate or deck. Use ratchet-type tie-downs to secure ramp(s) to the bumper or trailer hitch during loading / unloading.
• Front “kick stops” prevent ramps from moving forward; side rails help ensure ATV tires don’t slip off.
• Longer ramps reduce ramp incline, so you don’t have to “take a run” at the ramps.

Selecting a Loading / Unloading Site

• Find a site that gives you room to operate – no traffic or obstacles, level surface, firm ground.
• Use topography to your advantage – a small hill, or backing into a depression or shallow ditch will lower the rear pickup wheels, reducing ramp incline angle.
• If you have to load / unload beside a travelled road, find a location with good visibility (along a straight section) so other drivers can see you and have the opportunity to slow down. Use your radio to let others know you are there; let them know when you are finished.

Loading and Unloading

With the right gear in the right location, you are set up for success. By applying the right techniques – a little patience, a double-check system, a well-balanced stance, gentle throttle application and covering the brakes as you enter and leave the deck – loading and unloading goes off like clockwork.

Unlike the “stars” of many “ATV fail” videos, wear your helmet when loading and unloading. Use suitable footwear (i.e. - caulk boots provide no traction on a metal deck), gloves and eyewear. Use 3-point contact when entering and exiting the deck.

Check out the good ideas in these links:

Securing Your Load

• Use a set of quality tie-downs to secure your ATV. Attach them to sturdy locations on the machine (handlebars, axles, front or back metal carrying frames) and purpose-built D-rings on trailer or box.
• Give the machine a tug test to confirm it cannot move forward or backward, or side to side.
• Tie-off the “tails” of the straps.
• Place the ramps back into their storage location; tie them down.
• Travel a few miles, pull over in a wide location, do the tug test and re-tighten the tie-downs. During the trip, periodically check to confirm the tie-downs remain tight.
• Always carry a spare pair of tie-downs.
• Ensure safety equipment/PPE is stored and secured.