How To June 16, 2026

Loading Your Boat on a Trailer

With practice, loading a pontoon on the trailer can be simple and fast. Bennington gives boat trailer loading tips and suggestions on boat load guides that will help you safely load your boat and prepare it for towing.

Timecodes

0:00 - Boat Loading Overview at the Ramp
0:12 - Align Truck and Trailer Before Backing
0:20 - Trailer Backing Practice Tips
0:32 - Understanding Different Boat Ramp Types
0:39 - How Deep to Back Trailer into Water
0:47 - Boat Ramp Rules and No Power Loading
0:55 - Using the Winch Strap to Load Boat
1:01 - Trim Engine Before Pulling Out
1:06 - Using Four Wheel Drive for Traction
1:10 - Secure Boat with Trailer Straps
1:25 - Boat Trailer Safety Checklist Before Driving

00:00 – 00:30
When loading a boat, preparation makes all the difference, especially on busy weekends at a public launch. As you approach the ramp, take a moment to square your truck and trailer straight with the ramp. This helps you back in smoothly without fighting the trailer. If you’re new to backing up a trailer, practice ahead of time in an empty parking lot. A little repetition builds confidence and makes ramp loading faster and safer when others are waiting.

00:30 – 00:47
Boat ramps can vary. Some are steep, while others are long and shallow. A good rule is to back the trailer in just under the water’s surface. Longer boats may require the trailer to go slightly deeper, while shorter boats need less depth.

00:47 – 01:10
Always check ramp rules before loading. At non-power loading ramps, drive the boat forward only until it touches the trailer. Then shut off the engine and use the winch strap to pull the boat the rest of the way on. Once the boat is seated, trim the engine up so it does not make contact with the ramp before pulling out. If available, using four-wheel drive can help with traction.

01:10 – 01:25
After clearing the ramp, secure the boat with front and rear ratchet straps, using only the designated trailer attachment points, never cleats.

01:25 – 01:39
Before heading out on the road, double check that the straps are tight, the safety chain is connected, the jack is raised, the lights are plugged in, and the coupler is pinned. With everything secured, you’re ready to trailer safely. For more boating tips, visit benningtonmarine.com.