This greatly depends upon what is being transported but there are some general guidelines to follow:

1. The proper method for hooking up a bumper pull trailer to a hitch is to ensure that the safety chains are crossed underneath the coupler and securely attached to the tow vehicle frame or something securely attached to the frame. The safety chains need to be crossed underneath the trailer coupler, with minimal slack so that if the trailer becomes unhitched, the crossed chains will prevent the tongue from digging into the road surface and upsetting the trailer. Additionally the breakaway safety device cable should be attached to the frame of the tow vehicle so if a breakaway occurs the trailer brakes will be automatically activated. For gooseneck or fifth wheel hitches simply attach the safety chains and the breakaway safety device cables to something on the tow vehicle, that is securely attached to the frame. With this done and trailer lights, brakes and tire pressure checked you are ready to load.

2. Weight distribution. You should know the hitch weight of your trailer to prevent a weight imbalance. An improperly loaded trailer could cause you to lose control of both the towing vehicle and the trailer. With a bumper pull trailer the tongue weight should be between 7 - 18% of the total loaded trailer weight. If it is more shift the load back, if it is less shift it forward. On a Gooseneck hitch this range is 13 -25%, on a fifth wheel hitch it is 19 -30%

3. What is GVWR and what is its importance?

   The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the combined weight of the trailer and payload that the manufacturer states can be safely transported on the trailer. This weight rating must never be exceeded. Individual State/Province regulatory bodies will each have their own set of regulations that govern allowable weights that can be transported in each jurisdiction. It is necessary to review and familiarize yourself with these regulations in order to comply. While it is possible that the combined weight of your trailer and payload do not exceed the stated GVWR on the trailer, you may be exceeding local regulations governing weight restrictions on roadways and highways. This could lead to possible penalties and/or charges.

4. What options are available?

   Most trailers come with extensive options, which can be referenced in the specifications link on a per product basis. Additionally custom build products are available you must contact your local area dealer and have them work with their Southland Product Specialist in order to facilitate your needs.

5. What sets Southland apart from other manufacturers?

   This question greatly depends upon the manufacturer however general rules that apply are;

   1. The construction of Southland trailers is superior. These trailers use an engineered manufacturing process, which provides enhanced structural strength and longer product life then the competitors. Southland Steel Stock trailers use satin coated steel which is rust resistant. The Aluminum Gooseneck trailers have the thickest guage walls on the marketand use heavy wall aluminum corner posts, row bows, and sturdy uprights all covered by a one piece roof sheet. The result is a trailer that offers the needed support for today's cattleman.

   2. Safety features offered to protect you and your load. The doors secure at four separate points to ensure that your load is not going to walk off. Additionally, measures have been taken for safe loading and unloading. Slam gates with outside release mechanisms, and rubber bumpers to protect the livestock during the loading process.

   3. There is a wide range of options and models to accommodate individual trailering needs

   4. Quality components, only the highest quality components are used on the trailers. Southland vendors must pass strict quality requirements in order to become a supplier.

   5. Dealer knowledge. Southland dealers know trailers, livestock and horses and can help you find what you need. Southland ensures that our dealers are trained in order to properly assist you in determining what you need.