If you're hauling an ATV or side by side on an open trailer in the Lower Mainland, the right tie-down method keeps you and everyone else on the road safe. At Ride On Rentals in Delta, we rent open car hauler and equipment flatbed trailers that work well for this. The key is four-corner strapping, compressing the suspension, and rechecking after your first stop. Getting this right matters because a loose load can shift, damage your machine, or cause a serious accident on the highway.
What's the best way to tie down an ATV or side by side?
The best method is using four ratchet straps, one at each corner of the machine. You want to attach them to solid points on the frame, not plastic body panels or the handlebars. Hook the strap to the trailer's tiedown points, then ratchet it down until the suspension compresses about a quarter of the way. That compression is what keeps the machine from bouncing and shifting as you drive. Take your time with this step, because a properly secured load starts with solid attachment points.
For a side by side, use the same four-corner approach. If the machine has factory tiedown points, use those. If not, loop the strap around the lower A-arms or the frame rails. Avoid wrapping straps around axles, brake lines, or anything that moves or gets hot. A little time spent checking your attachment points before you leave saves a lot of trouble later. Also, make sure the straps aren't twisted and that the ratchet handles are facing away from the tires so they don't get caught on anything while you drive.
Why do you need to compress the suspension?
Compressing the suspension is what makes the load stable. If you leave the suspension loose, the ATV or side by side will bounce on its springs as you go over bumps. That movement can loosen the straps and let the machine walk around on the trailer. By tightening the straps so the suspension squats down, you're essentially locking the machine in place. This is especially important on the rough roads and bridge approaches you'll hit around Delta and Vancouver, where expansion joints and potholes can really test your tiedown job.
You don't need to bottom out the suspension, just take out the slack so it's firm. Think of it like pressing down on a car's fender to see if the shock is working. You want the machine to feel solid, not bouncing freely. If the machine bounces, the straps will stretch and loosen over time, and you'll end up with a load that's moving around. A quick test is to push down on the machine after tightening. If it barely moves, you're good. If it bounces back, tighten the straps more.
Should you use straps or chains?
For most ATVs and side by sides, ratchet straps are the practical choice. They're easy to tighten, easy to adjust, and they hold well when used correctly. Chains and binders work too, but they're heavier and slower to deal with. If you're renting a trailer from us, you can bring your own straps or ask us what we recommend for your machine. We can also confirm that the trailer's tiedown points will work with your setup before you leave the yard in Delta.
Whatever you use, make sure it's in good condition and strong enough for the load. Check the straps for cuts, fraying, or worn hooks before you start. A strap that looks fine but has a weak spot can fail on the highway. And always use soft loops or a protective sleeve if you're strapping around sharp edges on the frame. Replacing a worn strap is cheap compared to the cost of a damaged machine or a roadside incident. It's also worth carrying one spare strap in case something breaks mid-trip.
What should you check after the first stop?
After you've driven a few kilometres, pull over somewhere safe and check the straps. The machine will settle as the suspension compresses and the straps stretch a little. You'll likely need to tighten each strap a bit. Check that the hooks haven't moved and that nothing is rubbing on tires or moving parts. This recheck is the step most people skip, and it's the one that prevents problems. A few minutes of checking now can save you from a loose load on the Port Mann Bridge or the Massey Tunnel.
Also check the trailer itself. Make sure the coupler is still tight on the ball and the safety chains are hooked. If you're towing with a standard truck or SUV with a Class 3 hitch, you're probably fine, but it's worth a quick look. Check that the trailer lights are working and that the 4-pin or 7-pin wiring connector is secure. A minute spent checking now beats a roadside issue later, especially if you're heading out of town on a long haul.
What about loading and unloading on a slope?
Try to load on level ground if you can. If you're on a hill, like some of the driveways in the Tri-Cities, position the trailer so the ramp is on the downhill side. That makes it easier to drive the machine up, and you're not fighting gravity as much. Use a spotter to guide you and keep the machine straight on the trailer. A spotter can also watch for clearance issues and make sure the machine doesn't go off the edge of the ramps.
When unloading, release the straps slowly and check that the machine is stable before you drive it off. If you're unloading on a slope, chock the trailer wheels and use the parking brake. And remember, if you're hauling yard waste or gravel, a hydraulic dump trailer from Ride On Rentals might be the better tool. But for an ATV or side by side, an open flatbed or car hauler works great. Just take your time with the loading and unloading process, and you'll be fine.
Quick questions
Can I tie down an ATV using just two straps?
You can, but it's not recommended. Two straps at the front can hold the machine back, but they don't prevent side-to-side movement or the rear from bouncing. Four straps, one at each corner, keep the machine stable and reduce the chance of it shifting during a turn or on uneven roads. The extra time it takes to set up four straps is worth the safety benefit.
Do I need to use wheel chocks when hauling an ATV?
Wheel chocks are a good extra safety measure, especially for heavier side by sides. They keep the machine from rolling forward or backward if a strap loosens. You can buy simple rubber chocks or make your own from wood. Just make sure they fit snugly against the tires and are secured to the trailer. They're not always required, but they add a layer of protection.
What kind of trailer do I need to haul an ATV or side by side?
An open car hauler or equipment flatbed trailer works well. These have open decks so you can easily access the tiedown points and drive the machine on and off. At Ride On Rentals, we rent both types. Tell us what you're hauling and what your tow vehicle is, and we'll confirm the right fit. We'll also check that your hitch and wiring setup will work before you leave.
How often should I check the straps on a long trip?
Check the straps every time you stop for fuel or a break. The first stop is the most important, because that's when the straps settle the most. After that, a quick visual check and a tug on each strap is enough. If you're driving on rough roads or over mountain passes, check more often. It only takes a minute and it keeps your load secure.
If you're planning to haul an ATV or side by side, give Ride On Rentals a call at (604) 767-7977 to check trailer availability and get your booking set up.