When it comes to boating, transporting your vessel from the storage to the water requires careful planning and execution. One of the most critical steps in this process is blocking off your boat on a trailer. It is necessary to ensure the vessel is securely fastened to the trailer to avoid damage while on the road or during launching.
The first step in blocking off your boat to the trailer is selecting the right trailer that can handle the weight and size of your vessel. The trailer should also have enough room to support the boat’s weight without causing any damage to its underside.
Once you have the right trailer, it’s time to attach the boat to the trailer using various methods. One of the most common ways is by using straps. Using tie-down straps, you can secure the boat to the trailer, holding it in place during transportation.
To secure the boat, begin by positioning the boat on the trailer, ensuring the bow is centered before attaching the straps. Next, fasten the straps from the bow to the trailer’s frame, pulling them tight to ensure the boat is stable. Repeat this process on the stern, attaching the straps at a 45-degree angle to provide even weight distribution.
It is crucial to ensure that the straps are tight enough to hold the boat in place but not so tight that they damage the hull. You should also inspect the straps and trailer before and during transportation to ensure there are no areas of wear or damage that could lead to a security breach.
Another way to block off your boat to the trailer is using bunks. Bunks are padded boards on the trailer’s cross members that cradle the boat’s hull during transportation. With bunks, boats are secured using straps attached to the trailer’s eyelets, pulling the boat against the bunks.
As with straps, it’s essential to inspect the bunks before use to ensure they are in good condition and have no sharp edges that could damage the boat’s hull.
Blocking off your boat to a trailer is a critical step in boating transportation. Whether you use straps or bunks, it is necessary to ensure the boat is securely fastened to the trailer to avoid avoidable damage during transportation. A few minutes of extra care during the blocking off process can save you from costly damages to your boat or trailer.