Overview

Hauling doors in a pickup truck, box truck, or trailer can be challenging. By following simple precautions, you can ensure your cargo stays secure and prevent accidents.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Vehicle Options: Pickup Truck, Box Truck, or Trailer

1. 1 Clear the Bed or Cargo Area: Ensure the bed or cargo area of your vehicle is empty and clean.
2. 2 Inspect the Vehicle: Check the tires, suspension, and load capacity of your vehicle. Refer to the owner's manual for the maximum payload.

Gather Necessary Equipment

1. 1 Straps: Use ratchet straps or bungee cords to secure the load.
2. 2 Blankets or Padding: To protect the doors and your vehicle.
3. 3 Plywood or Support Boards: To create a stable base if necessary.
4. 4 Tarp: To cover the doors if needed.

Prepare the Truck Bed or Cargo Area

1. 1 Place Support Boards: Lay down plywood or support boards if the bed or floor of the vehicle is uneven or if additional support is needed.
2. 2 Add Padding: Place blankets or padding on the bed or floor of the truck or on the support boards to protect the doors from scratches and damage.

Load the Doors

1. 1 Lift with Care: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid damaging the doors. It's best to have at least one other person to help.
2. 2 Position the Doors: Lay the doors flat in the bed of the vehicle, ensuring they are centered and stable. If the doors are too long to lay flat, stand them on their side, ensuring they are securely positioned against the side of the cargo wall or truck bed.
3. 3 Protect the Doors: Place additional padding or blankets between the doors and any contact points in the vehicle bed to prevent damage.

Secure the Load

1. 1 Strap the Load: Use ratchet straps or bungee cords to secure the doors in place. If the doors are laid flat, run the straps over the top and around the sides. If they are stood on their side, secure them tightly against the side of the truck bed.
2. 2 Check for Movement: Ensure the doors are tightly secured and do not move when you push or pull them.

Cover the Load (if needed)

1. 1 Use a Tarp: If there is a risk of rain or debris, cover the doors with a tarp to protect them from moisture and damage.
2. 2 Secure the Tarp: Use additional straps or bungee cords to secure the tarp in place.

Drive Safely

1. 1 Check Your Load: Periodically stop to check the security of your load.
2. 2 Drive Cautiously: Avoid sudden stops, sharp turns, and high speeds. Drive slowly, especially over bumps and rough terrain.

Unload the Doors

1. 1 Prepare the Unloading Area: Ensure the unloading area is clear and has enough space to accommodate the doors. Under a roof is preferred.
2. 2 Wear Gloves: Protect your hands by wearing gloves while handling the doors.
3. 3 Lift with Care: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury. Lift with your legs, not your back.
4. 4 Place Neatly: Arrange the door neatly at the delivery location, ensuring it is stable and accessible to the recipient.