How to Properly Tie Down Equipment and Vehicles (and Why It Matters)

Transporting equipment or vehicles on a trailer might look straightforward, but improper tie-down is one of the most common causes of road incidents, damaged equipment, and fines. Whether you’re hauling a skid steer, mini excavator, or a vehicle, securing your load correctly is critical for safety, legality, and protecting your investment.

This guide covers how to tie down equipment and vehicles properly, and why taking shortcuts is never worth it.

Why Proper Tie-Down Is So Important

Failing to secure equipment correctly can lead to:

• Equipment shifting or tipping during transport

• Damage to trailers, machines, or vehicles

• Serious accidents involving other drivers

• Roadside fines or being taken out of service

• Liability if something comes loose

In Saskatchewan and across Canada, the driver is legally responsible for the load, even if someone else loaded it. Please double check all tie-downs after driving for a little bit as well as the load may shift. It is very important to always keep an eye on everything.

Basic Rules for Securing Equipment

Before getting into specifics, there are a few universal rules:

• Use rated tie-down equipment (chains, binders, straps)

• Tie-downs must be in good condition (no fraying, cracks, or bent hooks)

• Secure the load so it cannot move forward, backward, sideways, or vertically

• Re-check tie-downs after the first 10–15 minutes of driving

If it can move, it’s not secure.

How to Tie Down Construction Equipment (Skid Steers, Excavators, Mini Loaders)

1. Use the Right Tie-Downs

For heavy equipment, always use:

• Grade 70 transport chain or higher

• Proper ratchet binders or lever binders

• Ratchet Straps that are Properly Rated (Mini Skids, Mini Excavators, Attachments etc.)

• Tie-down points designed by the manufacturer

Avoid relying on light-duty straps unless they are specifically rated for the machine’s weight.

2. Four-Point Securement Is the Standard

Most equipment must be secured at four separate points:

• Two at the front

• Two at the rear

This prevents forward and backward movement during braking and acceleration.

3. Lower Attachments and Implements

Buckets, forks, and attachments should be:

• Fully lowered to the trailer deck

• Secured if required

• Not left suspended

Hydraulics alone are not a securement method.

4. Lock the Parking Brake and Shut It Down

Always:

• Engage the parking brake

• Turn the machine off

• Remove the key if possible (This saves the Headache of it flying off the machine while transporting it.)

How to Tie Down Vehicles on a Car Hauler or Tilt Deck

1. Secure by the Wheels or Frame

The safest methods include:

• Wheel straps rated for vehicle weight

• Axle or frame tie-downs (where appropriate)

Avoid tying down to suspension components unless designed for it.

2. Use At Least Four Straps or Chains

Vehicles should be secured with:

• Two tie-downs at the front

• Two at the rear

This keeps the vehicle stable in all directions.

3. Center the Load

Make sure the vehicle is:

• Centered left to right

• Positioned for proper tongue weight

Poor balance can cause trailer sway and loss of control. If you start driving and it feels like your vehicle isn't in full control there is likely not enough tongue weight and you will have to move the Load/Vehicle up a little bit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using worn or unrated straps

• Only using two tie-downs instead of four

• Forgetting to secure attachments

• Relying on trailer sides or rails

• Not re-checking after driving

Most problems happen not because people don’t care, but because they assume “good enough” is enough. It is always better to be "overkill" when it comes to tying down.

Legal Responsibility and Liability

If equipment or a vehicle comes loose:

• The driver is responsible

• Insurance may deny claims

• Fines can be significant

• You will be liable for injuries or damage

Taking an extra five minutes to secure a load properly can prevent thousands of dollars in damage or worse.

Final Thoughts

Proper tie-down isn’t just about following rules, it’s about keeping yourself and others safe on the road. Using the right equipment, securing at multiple points, and double-checking your load should be standard practice every time you tow.

If you’re unsure how to secure a specific piece of equipment or trailer, always ask before heading out. It’s better to ask a question than to deal with the consequences later.