Many kayakers love to explore different water bodies, and sometimes, it may require them to transport their kayak on a truck. Loading a kayak on a truck may seem like a challenging task, but with proper guidance, it can be a lot easier. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of loading a kayak on a truck.
Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you start loading your kayak on a truck, ensure you have all the necessary tools to make the process easier. These tools include kayak cradles, ratchet straps, and foam blocks. Kayak cradles are essential because they help keep the kayak in place during transportation. Ratchet straps help secure the kayak to the truck bed, while foam blocks cushion the kayak from scratches and damages.
Position the Kayak Cradles
The next step is to position the kayak cradles on the truck bed. Place the cradles at equal intervals to ensure the kayak is well balanced. If you have a long kayak, position the cradles towards the center of the truck bed. Doing this will help distribute the weight of the kayak evenly.
Place the Foam Blocks
After positioning the cradles, place the foam blocks on them. The foam blocks help cushion the kayak from damages and scratches. Ensure that the foam blocks are placed at equal intervals to prevent the kayak from moving around during transportation.
Load the Kayak
It’s now time to load the kayak on the truck bed. Lift the kayak onto the cradles and ensure it’s well balanced. If you’re loading the kayak alone, you can use a kayak loader to help lift the kayak onto the truck bed. Once the kayak is on the cradles, secure it using ratchet straps. Tighten the straps to ensure the kayak is well secured.
Additional tips:
• Ensure that the kayak is facing the right way. The front part of the kayak should be facing towards the front of the truck.
• Check the ratchet straps regularly during transportation to ensure the kayak is still secure.
• Avoid over-tightening the straps as it may damage the kayak.
• If you’re transporting more than one kayak, stack them on top of each other. Ensure that they’re well balanced and secured.
• When unloading the kayak, follow the same steps in reverse order.
Now that you know how to load a kayak on a truck, you can enjoy exploring different water bodies without worrying about transportation. Happy kayaking!