5 Best Ways to Strap Down Your ATV Trailer

Holly Berry is a writer for Akomplice, a Marketing Company and Marketing Technology Agency located in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Transporting an ATV can be an adventure in itself, especially when making sure it’s securely fastened to your ATV trailer. Whether you're hauling it across town or heading out into the wilds of Alaska for some off-road fun, the safety of your ATV should be your top priority. Here are five of the best ways to strap down your ATV to your trailer to guarantee a safe, smooth ride.

1. Use Ratchet Straps for Maximum Security

Ratchet straps are one of the most reliable methods for securing an ATV on your trailer. These heavy-duty straps work by tightening with a ratcheting mechanism, providing a firm grip without loosening over time. Make sure straps are rated for the weight of an ATV and secured at multiple points, such as the frame and handlebars. Tie-down points, often built into the trailer, offer convenient locations to anchor your straps.

For added safety, you can use four or more straps on each corner of the ATV to prevent any movement during transport. A tandem axle trailer offers extra stability, making it easier to secure heavier equipment like ATVs. With the use of ratchet straps, ATVs stay firmly in place, even on bumpy roads.

2. Invest in Wheel Chocks

Wheel chocks are another key tool to keep your ATV secure during transport. They work by preventing the tires from moving forward or backward, thus providing extra stability. Position the wheel chocks in front and behind the ATV’s tires once you’ve driven the ATV onto the ATV trailer in Anchorage. The chocks will help hold the ATV in place, especially when combined with strong ratchet straps.

Chocks are particularly useful for gooseneck flatbed trailers, where the open nature of the trailer makes securing vehicles a bit more challenging. Wheel chocks are a simple yet effective way to provide an additional layer of protection, especially for longer trips.

3. Use Tie-Down Bars for Heavy-Duty Hauling

When it comes to securing an ATV for long-haul trips, tie-down bars are a great option. These bars are installed across the trailer bed and allow you to attach multiple straps quickly and efficiently. This method works well for larger ATVs or when hauling multiple vehicles on a flatbed trailer. Tie-down bars help distribute the weight more evenly across the trailer, preventing excessive strain on any one strap or point.

Tie-down systems are especially helpful for used trailers or older models that may not have the built-in tie-down points found in newer units. With the right tie-down bars, securing your ATV becomes a much easier and more secure process.

4. Consider Using Heavy-Duty Lashing Straps

While ratchet straps are ideal for heavy-duty jobs, heavy-duty lashing straps offer a more adjustable solution. These straps can be used for lighter ATVs or for vehicles that are not as heavy. Lashing straps often come with cam buckles, which are easier to release and adjust compared to ratchets. If you’re working with single-axle utility trailers, lashing straps provide flexibility and convenience when hauling lighter gear.

For ATVs with narrower frames or less conventional shapes, lashing straps can be useful because they can wrap around odd angles and adjust for a snug fit. Make sure straps rated for the weight of the ATV are being used, and always check the tightness of the straps during transport.

5. Use a Combination of Methods for Ultimate Security

In many cases, the best way to secure your ATV is through a combination of methods. Start with ratchet straps for a tight hold, use wheel chocks for added stability, and consider using tie-down bars or lashing straps for more control over the load. This multi-layered approach is ideal for both short trips around town and longer journeys across more rugged terrain. The combination of multiple securing methods makes sure that the ATV stays safe and secure, even if one method starts to loosen during transport.

When loading an ATV onto hauling trailers like an axle trailer, always make sure to double-check that all straps and securing devices are tight and positioned correctly. Whether using a single-axle utility trailer or one of Up North Trailers’ options, these methods will keep your ATV in place and prevent any unnecessary damage. Last but not least, don’t forget to “set the parking brake on the ATV,” says Offroad-ed.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or just getting started, securing your ATV properly is essential for safe transportation. Up North Trailers knows the challenges of hauling equipment in Alaska's rugged conditions, and their trailers are built to withstand them. Whether you're looking for an ATV trailer to handle the toughest terrain or a trailer for multiple vehicles, check out their website. Using ratchet straps, wheel chocks, tie-down bars, and a combination of methods helps ATVs stay safe during the journey. With the right equipment and preparation, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures with peace of mind, knowing your ATV is secure and ready for action.