How to Back Up a Tractor Trailer onto a Dock
- 1). Line up your trailer for the backing up maneuver. If you are fortunate enough to be able to perform a straight backing up maneuver into the dock, pull your rig forward until the trailer is directly behind the tractor and lined up squarely with the dock. Most docks will require an angled backing up maneuver. In this case, pull your tractor forward until the back of your trailer is about 20-feet past your docking slot. The driver's side of your rig must be facing the dock.
- 2). Get out and visually check the spot. There are too many blind spots surrounding your rig, and you will be unable to see all possible obstructions from the driver's seat. Walk around the rig and look for any obstacles, both on the ground and overhead.
- 3). Turn off your radio. Open the driver's side window. You must be able to hear any outside noise or input from yard workers. Turn your emergency flashers on.
- 4). Check your mirrors. Adjust them, if necessary, to see the back of your trailer.
- 5). Sound your horn. Two or three short beeps on your city horn will alert any bystanders that you are about to back up. Do not use your air-horn.
- 6). Press in the clutch and put the tractor in reverse.
- 7). Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left. If you wait until after you are rolling to turn the steering wheel, it will take some time and distance before the tractor begins to turn.
- 8). Let the clutch out slowly. Do not press down on the accelerator. Backing should only be done at idling speed. Watch both mirrors as you begin to move back.
- 9). Turn you wheel gradually to the right to straighten the rig as you approach the dock.
- 10
Press the clutch in when you get to within 10 feet of the dock. Hitting the dock at idling speed can damage dock plates, as well as your trailer. Feather the clutch as you approach the dock, and brake as necessary. - 11
Back the trailer firmly onto the dock. Set the trailer brakes and chock your trailer's wheels.
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