How To Strap Down A Truck on A Trailer - Tips and Tricks

Towing a vehicle must always be done properly to ensure the safety of yourself and everyone else on the road. While this article serves as a guide to assist you with towing, if you are unsure or worried, please talk to the staff at Valley RV Supercenter to help you feel confident.
Understanding How to Strap Your Vehicle Down Safely
One of the keys to towing a vehicle on a trailer safely is to strap it down, so the weight of the vehicle doesn’t shift while driving, which makes it much easier to control the truck or SUV you’re driving. Another thing to remember is to buy quality products from trusted brands, taking special care to seek out both positive and negative reviews. Not all straps are made equal. A high-end set of straps can run you $150 or more. You will want to make sure you get 4 sets of straps and use all of them. While each strap will most likely be rated for more than what your vehicle weighs, you need to use all four for maximum safety.
What To Do with Your Transmission and 4×4
If you’re towing a truck on a trailer, make sure to put it into low range first and then lock the hubs, if you have them. Then put the truck in gear for a manual and park for an automatic and then pull the parking brake. This will help to make sure the truck is settled before you start strapping it down.
Where To Put Your Straps
From there you’ll want to look at tying the vehicle down from the axle tube, lower suspension links, and or the lower A-arm. The axle tube is your best insurance, but the other two will definitely work and be secure. Always check that you’re putting your straps over a smooth surface; take note that it won’t slide, move, or be cut by any sharp or uneven surfaces.
Always Strap Around Suspension Instead of Recovery Hooks
Some people may tell you to use the recovery hooks in the bumper, but this isn’t a great idea when trailering a vehicle because the suspension is what has the most flex and movement, which is why you want to strap it down forcing it to sit still.
Crossed or Straight?
Some companies will recommend you run your straps either crossed or straight. It’s best to look into what the manufacturer of the straps recommends. Most experts will say use your straps straight instead of crossing them from one point to another to reduce the chance of the strap coming loose or breaking which will allow the vehicle to move on the trailer. Also, be sure to not snag any lines when attaching your straps as this will have the potential of causing damage to your vehicle that you’ll only have to spend time and money fixing.
YouTube and Valley RV Supercenter Are Your Friends to Learn More
Tightening and wrapping your ratchet straps can be frustrating to read how it’s done. The best approach is to watch YouTube videos to get a good visual of how things are supposed to work. Or you can feel free to go to Valley RV Supercenter to get an in-person tutorial that you can even film with your cell phone to have for later.
Valley RV Supercenter Is the Perfect Place to Buy and Service Your Vehicle
Valley RV Supercenter isn’t just the number one place to shop for new and used RVs or trailers; it’s also a place to get the best care and service for your vehicle or trailer. The knowledgeable salespeople are there to answer any and all questions and concerns and help you find the right vehicle at the best price.
Why Choose Valley RV Supercenter
With 2025 coming to a close, the best prices and services can be found at Valley RV Supercenter. Whether you are looking for a new or used RV or trailer, they have what you are looking for. Their amazing staff will always work hard to provide you with the best experience imaginable, and their finance department can assist you in finding the best rates on all RVs. When it’s time, the service department is second to none and will take care of your vehicle as if it were their own, providing you with peace of mind. For those looking to rent an RV for a weekend or an extended period of time, Valley RV Supercenter offers the perfect options for your traveling needs.
If you are looking for a tow vehicle to pull your trailer, the truck center will help you find the best vehicle to fit your needs.











