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Things to Consider when Hauling Portable Generators

Mike Jeffries | July 25, 2019

A portable generator allows you to have power when and where you need it. However, you must follow a few basic rules when transporting your generator from one location to another. Before moving your equipment, check out this advice.

Related Blog:  Frequently Asked Questions About Generators

Preparing the Generator

Before transporting your generator, ensure the fuel valve is switched off and that your equipment has had ample time to cool.

You will next need to drain the fuel from your generator. To do this:

  • Move the fuel tank vent level to the "off" position.
  • Remove your fuel tank's cap.
  • Take out the strainer, which is a small "u" shaped device at the bottom of your tank.
  • Place an approved container underneath your fuel tank for the gasoline to drain into.

 

Loading the Equipment

Wheel your generator into position, using fold-out handles if yours is equipped with them. Once you have the generator ready to load, you'll need at least one other person to help you lift it. You can actually use up to four people if you'd like, one on each corner. It's also possible to pick up a generator with a winch or crane if you have one available.

 

Where to Place your Generator

Never place your generator inside a vehicle. Even with the fuel tank drained, gasoline fumes can easily overwhelm you. The best place to haul your generator is in the bed of a pickup truck or on a trailer. If you don't have a pickup or trailer, consider investing in a hitch-mounted or A-frame cargo carrier.

Even if you have a luggage rack, you should not place your generator on top of your vehicle. Portable generators can weigh as much as 250 pounds, which is far more than most automobiles can safely carry. Your generator could also become a lethal projectile if you were to be involved in an accident.

 

Safe and Secure Transport

After finding a place for your generator, you will need to secure it properly. If you have a weather-resistant storage container, you can place your generator inside. A heavy-duty plastic storage container or "tuff box" could be modified for use as a carrying case as well. Just remember to use plenty of packing material to keep your generator from slipping and sliding.

You may decide to transport your generator without placing it inside a container. When doing so, you'll need to provide some protection against the weather, Wrap the generator in a heavy-duty tarp, ensuring it is covered on all sides before securing with bungee cords.

Do not sit the generator on top of any other items. You should also not place anything on top of your generator while it is being hauled. Load the equipment in such a way that it will be easy for you to unload once you reach your destination.

 

Securing the Load

Secure your generator by using bungee cords or tie-down straps to keep it from shifting. Alternately, you may also want to brace or block your generator by placing other heavy items around it.

Generators are a highly sought after target for thieves. Accordingly, you may want to secure your generator with a lock and chain to safeguard it against theft, particularly if it will be obvious that you are carrying one.

 

Unloading the Generator

Untie all straps and take off any tarps or covers. Have another person help you lift your generator from its hauling location to a flat, even surface. Once you have done so, inspect the equipment for any damage that might have happened while in transit. If you do notice damage, please contact us right away for expert service and repairs.

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