Towing Requirements

Our insurance carrier establishes our minimum towing requirements for our rental trailers and equipment. Based upon information provided by insurance sources indicating a high correlation in accidents/claims involving short wheelbase tow vehicles and tandem axle trailers Bunce Rental, Inc. must use the following guidelines:

Tandem axle trailers, including tow dollies, require a tow vehicle with a minimum wheel base of 133 inches. The wheelbase measurement being made between the front and rear axle centers. This will also apply to towed equipment and trailers with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) in excess of 2000 lbs. In addition some larger/heavier trailers will require a 3/4 ton or larger chassis.

The 8'x20' equipment trailers, concrete trailers (single & double axle) with more than 1/2 cu. yd., and "Super" tow dollies require a minimum 3/4 ton, full size, domestic pick-up truck with a 133 inch minimum wheel base. Notable exceptions to this are the Ford Excursion and 3/4 ton Chevrolet Suburbans meeting the minimum wheelbase requirements.

Hitch Requirements: An adequate hitch is also necessary. For tandem axle trailers, all trailers and towed equipment greater than 3500 lb. GVWR, a minimum, class 3, receiver type hitch is required. Except, where a "factory" mounted step bumper, having the proper ball, has a rating beyond the requirement, and is of the proper height (15 to 18 in.). A hitch or bumper (factory mfg.) is rated to its' capacity, not that of the vehicle, which may be less. A single piece, solid, machined ball, with proper shank diameter must be used. Bushings to increase the shank size should not be used.

Bunce Rental, Inc. reserves the right to decline the use of any vehicle we feel may not be appropriate.