Top 5 Must-Follow Rules for Every Car Hauler

Виолетта Грибовская
Jun 29
3 min read

Real-world tips to keep your loads safe and your business running smoothly

When you're behind the wheel of a car hauler—open or enclosed—you're not just a driver. You're a business owner, a logistics pro, and the last line of defense between a car and potential damage.

Want to protect your reputation, stay out of trouble, and get ahead in this industry? Start with these five habits every serious hauler should build into their routine:

📷 1. Take Photos. Always. No Exceptions.

Before loading. After loading. At delivery. Every single time.

Photos are your best defense if something goes wrong—and a great way to show clients that you care. Get in the habit of snapping a full walkaround of each vehicle. The more angles, the better.

Tip: Use time-stamped photos in your phone gallery or organize by client/job to stay covered.

🗂 2. Keep Your Docs on Hand

DOT paperwork, insurance info, BOLs—you never know when someone’s going to ask for them. Whether it’s a roadside check, an auction, or a picky customer, being organized keeps you looking sharp and avoids delays.

Pro move: Save everything in both print and digital form. A tablet or cloud drive can be a lifesaver.

🔧 3. Don’t Skimp on Equipment

Cheap straps, sketchy ramps, worn winch cables—they’re just accidents waiting to happen. Use commercial-grade tools and check them before every trip.

If something doesn’t feel 100% secure, it isn’t.

Carry spares. Always. One extra strap or ratchet can save a day of lost work.

🛑 4. Know Where You're Going—and What Fits

Many neighborhoods and city streets just aren’t made for long trailers. Learn to check for low bridges, weight limits, and tight turns before you commit to a drop-off location.

Use driver-focused GPS apps that account for trailer size—standard maps won’t cut it.

🤝 5. Stick with Reliable Clients & Brokers

The load might look good on paper, but if the broker disappears after pickup or pays 30 days late, was it really worth it?

Work with trusted partners who value your time and equipment. It pays off in the long run.

🔑 Drive Smart. Protect Your Business. Keep It Moving.

A clean record, reliable gear, and a professional approach are what separate successful haulers from the rest. Build these habits now—and you’ll be in business for the long haul.

Need help finding quality loads or building your car hauling career the right way?

📲 United Dispatch is here to help. Let’s move forward—together.

🧭 So Which One Is Right for You?

Both trailer types can power a successful business—it all depends on how you want to operate.

If you’re looking to stay on the road, busy, and building cash flow, open trailers are often the best entry point.
If you’re more focused on serving exclusive clients and delivering high-end service, enclosed trailers offer a premium path forward.

In fact, many successful car haulers start with an open trailer to establish themselves, then add enclosed units later to expand into the luxury market.

🤝 United Dispatch Works With All Types of Trailers — and All Types of Haulers

No matter which setup you choose, United Dispatch is ready to help you succeed. We work every day with open and enclosed carriers across the U.S., helping them find the right loads, streamline their operations, and grow profitable businesses.

We understand the different demands of both trailer types—and we tailor our service accordingly.

With United Dispatch, you get:

Loads that match your equipment and business goals
A dispatcher who knows your setup and respects your time
Support that goes beyond finding freight—we help you build a long-term, sustainable business