Best practice for loading a mini excavator onto a dump trailer?

[George]

Looking for some guidance from those with more seat time hauling equipment. What's the proper way to load a mini excavator onto a dump trailer safely and without beating up the trailer?

Do you typically load it forward or backward? Keep the bucket curled, flat, or down for balance? Do you ever use the dump function during loading, or should the bed always stay flat?

Also interested in tips on ramp angle, machine positioning for weight distribution, and common mistakes to avoid. I've seen several different methods in the field and want to understand what's considered best practice, not just what "gets by."

Appreciate any advice from experienced operators or haulers.

 

[GeraldVasquez05]

Hey @George , this comes up a lot . . generally load it forward with the bucket low and slightly curled, bed flat, take it slow on the ramps, and make sure the weight's centered just ahead of the trailer axles so you're not beating up the tail or getting squirrelly on the road.