Sand and gravel are important aspects of construction projects both large and small. No matter how simple the work is, though, there is still the matter of getting the material from point A to point B. Since gravel hauling can be dangerous, Spallina Materials in Mount Morris, NY, recommends heeding the following advice for doing it safely and efficiently.

Here are five safe gravel hauling tips:

• Don’t Exceed the Gravel Line: In most hauling trailers, it’s safest to load sand and gravel no higher than four inches above the trailer bed. Even if it seems like there’s plenty of room, you don’t want to exceed the load your vehicle is capable of towing.

• Use a Tarp: To ensure the safety of everyone traveling behind you, secure a tarp to the top of your trailer, which will prevent sand and gravel from flying out.

• Haul an Open-Air Trailer: Always haul gravel and other raw materials with an open-air trailer, not on a truck bed. Trailers are safer because they’re lower to the ground, thereby providing more stable conditions, and they have higher sides.

• Don’t Rush: Drive slowly and cautiously, especially before corners or turns. If you turn corners too quickly, the extra weight you’re hauling could cause your vehicle to tip over. Stick to familiar routes when possible so you can slow down preemptively.

• Don’t Tailgate: Avoid following other vehicles too closely, as sudden stops will be especially dangerous with your increased load. To stay on the safe side, allow four to five seconds of travel time between you and the person ahead of you.

If you’re a contractor in the Mount Morris, NY, area, you can count on Spallina Materials for all your concrete, sand, and gravel needs. They’ll even do the gravel hauling for you. To request an estimate, give them a call at (585) 658-2248. More information about their services is available on their website.