Our Small Beginnings

Hard Work Fosters Growth   

Parkit360 began as an out-of-garage business in little ol’ Carleton Place, ON, Canada. It was a one man show for a while until business started booming! This may be a generous term, but it seemed like these trailer dollies - with their robust set of features and wide range of use cases - were fulfilling a big need in the industry! As sales started pouring in for these portable parking assistants, they quickly skyrocketed (again, a generous term). What was once a humble garage setup just wasn’t cutting it anymore and it was way too much work for one guy to keep his business afloat (How a Boat Crash Turned My Hobby into a Successful Startup). To make space for inventory and the hard-working humans breathing life into the company, Parkit360 moved into a large building in an industrial area. What began as a small Canadian start-up, blossomed into a top-rated trailer dolly company providing simple parking solutions for thousands of people across the globe! 

Our Team

The Most Valuable Assets 

As a company, we place a major emphasis on uniting and truly caring for our employees, ensuring they feel that they and their work are valued and appreciated. 

Our tight-knit community is made up of product development teams, manufacturers, administrators, media and marketing teams, and sales representatives. Each and every person plays a vital role in providing you with high-quality Parkit360 trailer dollies, accessories and services.

Our Process

From Online Cart to Your Door 

The process all begins with an idea! Each Parkit360 product is expertly designed in-house and tirelessly tested by our R&D team to give you a product that has been meticulously perfected. Once our design is complete, we reach out to suppliers in North America and abroad to bring our product to life with quality parts and materials. Next,  it's your turn! You may have seen the work of our wonderful media team on social media or across the internet, which nudged you to explore our website. Our media team has designed our website, taken photos/videos, and written all the descriptions to make sure that you know what you’ll be getting when you order from us. If you encounter any questions or concerns along the way, our lovely sales and service staff are here to help!

There are many reasons to start a business; it can be the desire to be your own boss, pursuing your true passion, having more hands-on opportunities, or simply making more money.

For me, it was a combination of two things. First, I noticed a niche on the market that I could fill with my product. Backing a trailer into a tight spot can be the most frustrating experience in the world — I know firsthand. I found this gap in the market and I aimed to do my best to fill it.

But more importantly, I’ve always enjoyed building solutions to problems I saw around me. Being able to turn this hobby of mine into a career has been hands down the greatest experience of my life.

My name is Steve Houle and this is the story of how I founded Parkit360.

My life-long passion

Growing up, my dad worked as a millwright and owned a machine shop, so since my teenage years, I've been building drivelines for sawmill and planing mill systems. These were my formative years, and my dad instilled in me a deep work ethic and business sense that persists to this day. I credit my success in creating this product – which I believe to be the best and most advanced trailer dolly on the market today – to him.

Still, this didn’t happen overnight; nothing worthwhile does. It all started when my wife and I purchased a new 27-foot cabin cruiser boat. We couldn’t wait for the maiden voyage on a windy day in Kingston, Ontario — but disaster soon struck. When leaving the dock, the wind blew my boat onto another boat beside mine, resulting in major damage to our young vessel.

That same week, out of pure necessity, I developed my own bow thruster, spending countless days in testing, developing, and finally bringing this product to the market. We received great feedback from the release: the product was such a great help to people with larger cruisers.

I’d always enjoyed handy work and building my own solutions to problems around me, but this sparked a greater idea — what if I could make a proper business out of it? My experience building the bow thruster made me realize that I could build a similar product for trailers that could aid people in fitting their trailers into tight places that would otherwise be difficult.

A solution to a niche problem

Soon afterward, I started a precision machining and welding shop in my double garage at home — all the while diving into building prototypes of what later became Parkit360.

Almost everyone I knew had trailers back then — from boat or RV trailers to the big work trailers my friends in the landscaping business had. So I identified early that there would be a pretty good market out there for my future product: the trailer dolly. And I was right.

An early Trade Show display for Parkit360 showing 3 models

My number one priority was to help individuals trying to fit their boats or RVs into a small spot in their garage or yard. Many times, the trailer is so wide that there’s only an inch on each side and it’s almost impossible to get the trailer in. From the start, I gained valuable feedback from the people around me, and I used this feedback to design my prototype. I also attended multiple RV and boat shows to gain a feel for what the market would be like by talking to real people: my future customers.

I will admit that it wasn’t always easy. When you’re working on a new project where the bills don’t immediately come in, the negative thoughts always creep in. Am I wasting my time? Did I just waste an entire day working on something that will amount to nothing?

But I persevered, and soon found the development process to be highly rewarding. Sure, sometimes it could be frustrating, but with each prototype, I began to get closer to what I wanted to build, and that kept my enthusiasm going. This enthusiasm became my fuel, and I continue to ride it to this day.

After approximately seven prototypes — and six months of work! — I finally managed to build a product that I was satisfied with. My tiny little invention could move a surprising amount of weight! I posted two units on eBay and began to wait.

Steve Houle, Founder, with an early model of a Parkit360 Electric Trailer Dolly

I remember my first sale like it was yesterday. While enjoying a pleasant dinner with some of my friends, I got a notification: both items that I had posted were sold! Words can’t describe just how shocked and happy I was at that moment. All that long work had finally proven my idea successful. I was so excited about these sales that I added three more to eBay, and — you guessed it — sold all of them the very next day! Needless to say, I had to get busy and start building the product at scale.

That’s how Parkit360 started. The early days sure had their ups and downs. Any company goes through similar struggles in dealing with growth. Keeping up with demand can sometimes be a challenge for me, but it’s a sign that people like the product, and inspires me to continue working.

Still, the first year was a success! Next, I had to figure out how to grow my fledgling company. First, I began to expand my operations by hiring an administrator to help me out – and they're still with us to this day! During the second year, we hired three team members to build units because we had so many orders. In the third year, we really hit it off with a whopping 3000 units bursting at the seams in my double garage. To handle all the orders, we ended up moving to a 12,000 square foot facility in an industrial park, where we now have 11 employees building 50 units a week on average.

It’s all about the people

It may sound counter-intuitive, but to anyone looking to start their own business, I’d say a slow start is best. Try to control your growth and, for the first few years, avoid bank financing. The main interest of each business shouldn’t be unparalleled growth, but rather happy customers and a nice community. Start there and the rest will follow.

There are a few other things that I’ve learned in my journey of being in business. Remember that family always comes first; if you neglect the ones you love then what’s the point? You always need to make time for them, even if it means you miss a deadline or two.

But the single most important thing is that you can never take people for granted. Everyone on your team is valuable in some way and you should never think of them as a liability to you. It may sound cliché, but sometimes you don't know what you have in someone until they’re gone. Don’t make this mistake. Make everyone feel that they're wanted and that they’re working towards the same end goal, and you’ll immediately see the results.

That’s why my team is my most valuable asset. Our employees are loyal and they love to be here working on this amazing product. When people are really passionate about what they do, it makes all the difference in the world. I invest a lot in my employees. Almost every year, we all go on a cruise or an all-inclusive resort, where each employee can bring a plus one. It’s a great opportunity for us all to get away and enjoy each other’s company.

When I look back on my entrepreneurial journey, I see that the key to success is believing in the idea and being truly passionate about it. And when I look into the future? I see myself and my team constantly working on our product, improving it, and having a great time while doing so!

Having trouble parking your trailer into a tight spot? Parkit360’s Motorized Electric Trailer Dollies are perfect for storing boat trailers, RVs and other travel trailers. They will move up to 15,000 lbs and are compact enough to fit in the trunk of a small sedan. Made with high-quality North American materials and backed by a 2 Year Warranty, Parkit360 Trailer Dollies can move almost any trailer with ease and perform well on a wide variety of terrains.

Parkit360’s Force ISC™ and Transformer models are compatible with almost every trailer right out of the box thanks to their ball-mounted Stablelock technology. Just freewheel the dolly to the trailer, connect it to the hitch, and use the forward/reverse controls to steer your trailer into place. For other hitch types, Parkit360 offers a wide range of adapters to accommodate everything from large Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck trailers to Pintle Hitches.

Unlike a driver, who relies on mirrors and backup cameras, a Parkit360 user faces the trailer, giving them complete visibility and control. They can see exactly where the trailer is at all times and steer within inches of an obstacle if needed. If there’s any doubt, it’s simply a matter of walking over to check. And unlike using a car or truck, the trailer can be parked with the coupler end forward as a serious theft deterrent.

The 5K, 10K, and 15K Dollies can handle up to 5,000, 10,000 and 15,000 lbs respectively and are great for mixed terrains, tight corners, and up to a 6% grade. Plus, all Mainland US customers can enjoy free shipping on orders over $600.

Have a unique parking situation or questions about which model is right for you? Sales experts can help you choose a dolly that’s customized to fit your needs. Make maneuvering around obstacles and tight corners a breeze!

• Runaway prevention features on Parkit360 electric trailer dollies
• How to see and navigate safely while using our dollies
• Intelligent Speed Control™ to prevent wear and tear
• How our unique Stablelock technology provides the most secure connection

If you’ve clicked on this blog, I bet I can guess what you’re thinking – maybe something along the lines of: “How is that little thing going to effectively and safely move my massive trailer?”

Good news: you’ve come to the right place!

Not only do we have all the information you need to answer your question, but you’ll find that our electric dollies offer some of the best safety features on the trailer-moving market.

We get that you have concerns. This is a big investment, and an even bigger risk if it doesn’t work well. (Seriously, who wants to pay thousands of dollars to repair trailer damages if something goes wrong?)

We want to do what we can to give you some peace of mind before you purchase our product.

In this blog, we’ll address some of the common questions and concerns we get from people just like you.

Let’s get into it!

1. “Will this thing just roll away with my trailer?”

Absolutely not!

When people come across our products, one of their first concerns is a runaway trailer. I’m happy to tell you that we have lots of safety measures in place to make sure that this doesn’t happen.

First of all, the wheels of our electric trailer dollies lock automatically. When the motor is in “engaged” mode, the dolly wheels stay locked, unless you press the forward or reverse controls. With the wheels locked, the unit can only rock an inch or two in each direction. This will easily keep small trailers from rolling over the unit, and prevent the mover itself from running out from underneath the trailer.

The added benefit of this is that the dolly will automatically stop as soon as you release the controls. So, if your hand ever slips off the controls for any reason, you can rest assured that the unit would come to a stop on its own – no braking required!

The second feature that keeps your trailer from rolling away is the automatic trailer brake control. All of our motorized units are equipped with a 7-pin plug to connect your trailer’s brakes to the dolly. As long as the dolly is powered on, the trailer brakes will automatically activate when the unit stops moving. The only time your electric brakes will release is when you press the forward and reverse controls. For boat trailers, the brake connector will lock out the surge brakes only when the controls are being pushed.

Additionally, our units use 12 volt deep cycle batteries because they will always hold some power in reserve. That means that your brake controller will never stop working, even if the battery doesn’t have enough charge for to operate the dolly.

Of course, our electric units still have limits. For trailers under 10,000 lbs, that limit is a 6% grade; for trailers over 10,000 lbs it’s a 4% grade. Operating on a grade higher than this can be dangerous and could result in that dreaded loss of traction.

2. “How can I see around my trailer to steer safely?”

It’s actually quite easy to see everything you need to see while operating a Parkit360 dolly.

For starters, you can get that bulky tow vehicle out of the way – no more mirrors necessary when you can stand right in front of your trailer.

Secondly, you can count on those handy braking features we discussed earlier to keep your trailer and dolly parked in place while you walk around to check your clearance.

But the best option for good visibility while steering is a feature exclusive to our Transformer 15K: the wireless controller. With the controller in your hand, you can move your trailer from any angle. Stand beside the trailer to check the back corner clearance, or position yourself just right to get a good view of that narrow garage opening. Basically, you’ll have a 360 degree view, so you shouldn’t ever have to worry about hitting anything again.

Plus, you won’t need a spotter anymore!

3. “Could the tugging motion cause damage to my trailer?”

We’ve specifically designed our trailer movers to reduce the amount of tugging force placed on the trailer during operation.

The trademark feature of every Parkit360 electric trailer dolly is our Intelligent Speed Control™ (ISC). What this does is offers you, the operator, an option to move the dolly at either fast speed (approx. 60 ft/min) or slow speed (30 ft/min). This, of course, gives you greater control over the steering, but can also be used to reduce strain on the trailer.

Built into the ISC is a gradual ramp-up and ramp-down component. We found in testing that a lot of trailer dolly motors started and stopped rather abruptly, resulting in strain on the coupler and damage to some of the goods inside the trailer. When you press a control on the Parkit360, the unit will gradually begin moving until it gets up to speed, and when you release the control the motor will steadily reduce speed while activating the trailer’s brakes.

4. “Could the dolly drop my trailer?”

No, not if you follow the proper connection process. When you adhere to all the instructions and safety warnings, your trailer will stay securely connected to the dolly.

Our standard Ball Mount Adapter is designed with Stablelock technology that secures the adapter to your trailer, preventing any tilting or spinning within the coupler, and keeping your trailer from coming disconnected while using the dolly.

Stablelock technology works by tightening the whole assembly to provide a completely flush, solid connection between the Ball Mount Adapter and the base of the coupler. The Hitch Ball itself also has two small weld spots that help secure it into place within the coupler.

In the case of a connection gap or a step-down coupler, we have also created a Thrust Washer that can be inserted to reinforce the proper connection.

We also have adapters for other connection types, including the Pintle Hitch Adapter, the Telescopic Frame Adapter, and Fifth Wheel and Gooseneck Adapters. These have all been designed to provide a fixed, stable connection point.

Essentially, when you connect one of our adapters, you’re creating a secondary jack post on your trailer, and then inserting that into the trailer mover. (Speaking of which, you could also connect to the dolly by dropping your jack post right into the receiver tube for a simple and secure hook-up).

The only time the dolly will pull out from under your trailer is if the connection is not properly flush. (Or – as one customer shared – if you forget to remove the chocks from your wheels.)

Be sure to insert your coupler’s latch pin when connecting to our Ball Mount Adapter to prevent the latch from opening while the dolly is in operation.

As long as you follow all of these steps, you can trust that the dolly will stay steady and secure.

Have more questions about Parkit360 safety features?

If you have a question that we didn’t cover, we’d love to hear from you.

We want our customers to have the utmost confidence in our product. If that means taking time to talk with you before you buy, we are happy to do so.

Plus, you may not be the only one with that specific concern. By bringing it to our attention, you allow us to address it for all of our customers.

Submit your questions here.

Are you new to the world of trailer camping? If so, welcome! We’re glad to see that you’ve discovered this fabulous pastime.

Whether you’re still in the process of searching for the perfect recreational vehicle, or you’ve been camping for a number of years, you’ll find that there is a lot of specific (and somewhat confusing) terminology linked to the hobby. And if you don’t understand the basic – though sometimes subtle – difference between these technical terms, you may get a little lost while researching the best tips and products for your situation.

Even amongst our expert staff, many of whom have been towing and camping in trailers for decades, we find that these terms can get mixed up and misused. So don’t worry if it doesn’t make sense to you just yet! We’re here to help.

Hitch vs Coupler

Perhaps the most common and confusing mix-up is the use of the term “hitch” vs “coupler.” You’re probably most familiar with the word “hitch” because it tends to get thrown around a lot when talking about trailers.

The hitch refers to the connection point on your vehicle used to hook up a trailer for towing. In most cases, the hitch is a bar or frame piece that is mounted under the car/truck and has a hitch ball on a protruding arm for the trailer to connect to. (Although other hitch types may be mounted in the bed of a truck, for example: fifth wheels.)

What makes the word “hitch” so truly confusing is that many people tend to use it as a blanket term for any part of a trailer-to-tow vehicle connection, including the part on the trailer; this piece is actually known as the “coupler.”

Couplers are often welded on or connected to the trailer frame. The most common type of couplers are those that connect to a hitch ball, and all of these feature some kind of locking mechanism to keep the ball securely attached during towing.

So, to keep them straight, just remember: hitches go on your tow vehicle, and couplers come on trailers.

Of course, there are some exceptions to this rule. In some cases, trailer owners may opt to use one of a variety of specialty hitches meant to prevent sway, balance trailer weight, and provide a smoother ride. Many of these hitches are designed to stay attached to the trailer coupler, requiring only a few simple steps to connect them to the hitch bar on the back of the tow vehicle.

RV vs Trailer vs Motorhome

Another set of commonly exchanged terms are “RV” and “trailer.” These terms do have some overlap, but their meanings are distinct.

RV (short for “recreational vehicle”) is actually a broad term that refers to any trailer, camper van, or motorhome that offers a place to live, cook, and rest while traveling.

A trailer, on the other hand, is an unpowered vehicle that must be hooked up to another vehicle in order to be towed. There are many kinds of trailers for transporting and storing goods, vehicles, and animals, as well as for camping.

Camping trailers can be anything from a small pop-up tent trailer or a teardrop to a massive fifth wheel trailer. Thus, all camping trailers are recreational vehicles (RVs), but not all RVs are trailers.

Recreational vehicles that are motorized and do not require a tow vehicle might also be called “motorhomes” to distinguish them from trailers. They are simply another category of recreational vehicle.

Hookups

Depending on the type of trailer you have, you may hear about “hookups” a lot (and we don’t mean the romantic kind).

Hookups are connections to campsite services such as electricity, water, and sewer. Many trailer parks and campgrounds with trailer spots offer one or more of these services, allowing you to experience all the comforts and conveniences of your mobile home.

Always be sure to have the proper equipment for the available hookups, and know what you need to do in case there aren’t any.

Boondocking

Camping without any hookups is called “boondocking,” “dry camping,” or “wild camping.”

Boondocking means no electricity, no water hookup, and no sewage disposal. You may be able to add some comfort and convenience to your stay by pre-filling your water tank, installing an alternative energy source (for example, solar panels), and limiting your sewage usage until you can dump it properly. However, boondocking is not the kind of luxury camping experience that you’d generally find in a trailer park.

Often, this kind of camping is done on public lands where dispersed camping is allowed – as long as you do your best not to leave behind too much evidence of your stay.

Other camping areas offer designated dry camping spots, and some private landowners will even offer an official boondocking spot on their properties. You can find lots of boondocking sites for booking through companies like Boondockers Welcome and Harvest Hosts.

The best part about boondocking? It’s usually free!

BONUS term: If a friend or family member offers to let you stay on their property with this kind of setup, it is sometimes referred to as “moochdocking.”

Slide-out

Looking for more space without adding length to your trailer? Search for recreational vehicles with slide-outs.

Slide-outs are expandable sections of your living space that can be pushed out while parked so that your family has more room to sleep, eat, or watch TV on a rainy day. These can then be retracted for more convenient travel.

Most are controlled with electronic or hydraulic systems, so they add very little extra effort to your setup, but provide a whole lot more room to breathe (and move around). After all, when you’re sharing a small living space, you need as much room as you can get.

And there you have it! A beginner’s guide to common (and frequently misused) trailer terminology.

Have more questions? Learn more about towing and trailer camping by checking out the rest of our blogs.

As trailer owners, we’ve all wondered whether there is a better way to move our trailers around our properties.

Sure, the truck works for most situations. But sometimes it would be nice to have another option for maneuvering around your garage, driveway, and yard – something for those small moves and tricky spots.

What if there was a convenient tool you could keep on hand for getting trailers in and out of tight spaces? What if you didn’t need to hook your trailers up to the truck just to shuffle them around? What if you could get more precise control without a lot of extra work?

As it turns out, the trailer community has found lots of alternatives for this. A quick scan of any trailer forum (or even the comments section on our social media profiles) will reveal half a dozen – maybe more – different ways to move a trailer without the typical rear receiver hookup.

But we couldn’t help wondering: how well do they really work?

So, we’ve dug deep into discussions all across the web to hear first-hand from trailer owners just like you who have tried these other methods for themselves.

Here’s what we found:

1. Front Mount Receiver

So, technically, this method still involves using your truck (meaning tight spaces could still be challenging). But many trailer owners swear by the use of a front hitch for better control when reversing their recreational vehicles.

However, a front mount receiver eliminates several of the most common issues of backing up with a tow vehicle: difficulty steering, limited visibility, and tight maneuvers. A front hitch lets you push your trailer while looking straight at it. And, as an added bonus, this connection point provides more precise steering because the hitch is closer to the turning wheels.

Before you go out and buy a front hitch, however, there are a few things to consider.

The first is 4-wheel drive capabilities. If you’re planning to move on potentially soft, uneven, or steep terrain, you need a vehicle that can handle those conditions while pushing a trailer.

Next, think about the placement of the hitch. Can you have it mounted a little offset from the center of your vehicle? This will give you a better ability to view the side of your trailer, as well as your surroundings.

Lastly, consider the tongue weight. Front mount hitches may not have as high of a weight capacity. With all that weight resting on the front end of your vehicle, you may also find that your tires dig into the ground more and are harder to turn. Some owners of larger trailers recommend a wheeled extension for the jack to remove some of that weight.

As long as you take these three things into consideration, you should be able to make this method work for you. But, if you hope to get into a space that isn’t long enough for the truck and trailer together, then a front hitch won’t do you much good.

2. Tractor

Whether you’re looking for precision steering or a smaller vehicle to fit those tight spaces, a lawn tractor is a common choice for moving trailers.

Depending on the type of tractor you have, there are a couple of attachment options available: a receiver attached to the bucket, or a rear receiver hitch.

For a simple tow job with a small trailer, a tractor can be a good, compact alternative to your standard tow vehicle – just be sure that you have the right tires and four wheel drive.

You might be surprised to find that many trailer owners have reported that this method does not work as well as might be assumed, since the tractor needs to be heavy enough to counterbalance the trailer that it is pulling/pushing. Even if your tractor is capable of pulling the weight, you may still need to add weights onto it to maintain ballast distribution.

And, though many suggest that this method could make trickier parking spots easier to get into, you might have trouble seeing the spot properly. Your overall visibility will be reduced when driving the tractor because you are low to the ground and very close to the body of the trailer.

3. Forklift

A forklift is a piece of equipment that most people are unlikely to have lying around at home. However, in commercial and industrial contexts, this is a popular choice for moving trailers and other types of equipment. These mighty little machines are meant for hauling, and can handle quite a bit of weight. Plus, they are designed to counterbalance the front weight placed on them (as long as you don’t exceed the limit).

If you happen to have a forklift, you’ll be happy to know that there are several companies that sell trailer hitch attachments for forklifts. There are traditional receivers that can connect to the frame, as well as attachments that slide over the forks. The latter type are well-constructed metal plates or covers, often offering multiple connection points, depending on your needs.

While some would suggest that you can simply drill a hole through one fork to attach a hitch ball or pin, this is not recommended. This will damage the integrity of the fork. It could also create some unique steering challenges because the trailer will be attached to only one side of the machine.

So, if you have a fork lift, this is a great choice for moving your trailer!

Just remember, before you take your forklift out in the yard, that you need an upgrade from the standard warehouse tires, otherwise you’ll have trouble getting traction.

4. ATV

An ATV might seem like a logical option for moving your trailer – after all, there are small trailers that are specifically designed for pulling with an ATV. But, from everything we’ve seen, this is not a good idea.

An ATV is simply not designed to pull any kind of large trailer. The towing capacity on these machines is very low, and you’re more likely to end up in a permanent wheelie position than having a perfectly parked trailer.

Besides, your only brakes are the ones on the ATV itself, which makes pulling a trailer on any kind of slope inadvisable.

5. Ride-on lawn mower

Much like lawn tractors, a ride-on lawn mower might seem like a good solution for small moves, but there are few that are designed to handle the weight of a trailer. Most ride-on lawn mowers don’t have the transmission needed to supply the appropriate amount of torque. Several accounts from trailer owners state that, while a lawn mower may have helped them move their trailer, they could tell that the machine was not happy with the load.

Don’t upset your lawn mower. And don’t risk breaking it when there are other tools that can better handle the tongue weight without tipping or straining.

You may be able to get away with using your ride-on lawn mower if you only have a small pop-up trailer, but we don’t recommend that you try this at home.

6. Converted snowblower

An old snowblower is fairly easy to come by (in snowy areas), and not too costly to obtain either.

This moving method for trailers seems a bit unusual, but it may actually work. Whether you decide to attach the hitch ball on top of the auger cover (which will likely require some reinforcement), or to remove the auger attachment altogether and add a receiver to the front of your machine, you have a rather simple motorized mover to which you can attach your trailer.

It might not move very quickly or turn all that well, but it does give you a way to move your trailer by hand without having to lift all of that weight yourself.

Now, obviously, this jury-rigged machine is only as good as the base you use, the design you come up with, and the quality of the build, so the level of safety and effectiveness varies greatly from one machine to another. But, with the right modifications, you might be able to make this work.

7. Brute force

There is always the option of moving your trailers by hand. But, unless you’re going a very short distance with a very light trailer, this is probably more work than it’s worth. Most trailers do offer a handy jack wheel for these situations, but those hard little plastic wheels aren’t designed for any major moves – and they’re certainly not designed for dragging through your yard.
And don’t forget what a challenge a slope can be if you’re supporting all of the trailer’s weight yourself.

8. Trailer dolly

You know we couldn’t make a list of trailer-moving methods without discussing trailer dollies. These handy gadgets come in manual and motorized models for moving a variety of trailer types and sizes. These dollies usually go through extensive design and testing processes to ensure a safe and efficient trailer-parking experience. They are the best choice for maneuvering in tight spaces, and they don’t take up a ton of storage room.

Browse our full selection of trailer dollies to find the right one for your needs, and never worry about how you’re going to get in and out of that impossible spot with your truck again.

If you’re wondering, “How do I know if my hitch system will work with a trailer dolly?”, then you’ve come to the right place.

There are lots of different hitch types out there, many of which have special features to make your towing experience more secure and stable.

But not all of these couplers connect to a standard trailer dolly.

At Parkit360, we’ve done our best to create adapter options to suit as many of these hitch types as we can. These adapters are specially fitted to ensure the tightest connection possible between your trailer and the dolly, so you don’t have to worry about your trailer tipping, coming loose, or getting damaged.

Let’s dive in to explore a list of our available adapters, the types of couplers that are compatible with them, and what a proper connection should look like for each one.

Ball Mount

Our standard hitch balls come in 2” and 2-5/16” diameter, the most common hitch sizes. These will be compatible with most camping trailers with a rear receiver style of coupler.

Additional hitch balls can be ordered for 1-⅞” or 50 mm (UK standard size).

Weld spots keep the ball from spinning. They should always be turned to 10 o’clock, unless using a Bulldog Collar-Lok system (more details below)

What connection types work well with this adapter:

• Rear receivers - Does your trailer have a standard ball-mounted rear receiver system? Then you will have no problem connecting your trailer to a dolly. These are the most common and versatile hitch types, and can easily be used on vehicles of all sizes. In fact, some trucks come with ball mounts already installed and ready for towing. The vehicle hitches themselves are sold in five classes, based on maximum weight capacity.
• Demco EZ-Latch - These rear receiver latches have an auto-lock feature that lets you hook up a hitch ball while the latch is in a closed position. Their rather low profile and flat tongue shape make them durable and easy to connect to a hitch ball. Be sure to use your trailer’s latch pin if you have a Demco EZ-Latch.
• Folding tongue coupler - A folding tongue coupler is essentially the same as any other rear receiver, but with one added feature: the tongue has a hinge where it fastens to the trailer frame so that it can be folded out of the way when in storage. This coupler type easily attaches to the trailer’s tubing to convert the tongue and save more space.

Note: All Ball Mount-compatible trailers can also be used with our EZ Connect Adapter if you have one of our Force models. The EZ Connect offers a simple drop-and-go connection for straightforward parking jobs.

Thrust Washer

Included with all ball-mounted dollies, our Thrust Washer helps to create a tighter connection between couplers and the ball mount. The removable puzzle piece allows for extra space in the case of an obstruction (step-down), or it can be inserted to provide a greater surface area when tightening the hitch, especially if there is a gap between the tongue and the ball mount.

Options for angled and straight Atwood attachments allow you to switch out the puzzle piece to suit these unusual hitches, commonly found on Jayco trailers

What connection types work well with this adapter:

• Bulldog Collar-Lok - Designed for uses such as utility, livestock, cargo, and construction, these clamshell style hitches have a sliding ring for extra security for heavy-duty towing. These coupler types are not compatible with all trailer dollies, but they will work with Parkit360 trailer dollies as long as the hitch ball is set up with the spot welds facing 12 o’clock and a Thrust Washer is used to secure it tightly.
• Atwood couplers - Atwood is a large “ranch and home” company, whose hitches are commonly found on Jayco trailers. These hitches work quite well with trailer dollies, as long as you have the appropriate Thrust Washer connection. We make two specialized adapters (one flat, one angled) for Atwood couplers to create a flush connection where the flange prevents this. Our adapters fit around the raised lip of the coupler and secure it to the dolly for the best connection.
• Wallace Forge - Wallace Forge makes couplers for all manner of towing, from light jobs to heavy-duty trailers. Many of their coupler styles have a large step-down design (there is a sharp angle from the ball socket to the body of the coupler), so we are happy to provide custom Thrust Washer pieces to anyone with this type of connection. Contact our sales department (1-888-926-5517 ex.1, or sales@parkit360.com) to let us know what coupler you have and we will find a solution for you.

Pintle Hitch Adapter

If you have a Pintle hitch for your farm or industrial equipment, then the Pintle Hitch Adapter is the ideal way to connect to a trailer dolly. This adapter is made to suit the standard 3” diameter lunette ring, and is recommended for use with the Transformer 15K model. This extremely sturdy connection will allow you to tow farm equipment, generators, and dump trailers, to name a few.

What connection types work well with this adapter:

• Pintle hitch/Lunette ring - A lunette ring coupler is simply a solid metal ring, into which a Pintle hitch can be fastened. These clasp or hook type hitches are most commonly used for big towing jobs in farm and industrial settings. They are built for a better range of motion, making them great for rough terrain, but less compatible with trailer dollies. Luckily, our adapter offers a very secure way to connect your lunette ring coupler to our trailer dollies.

Telescopic Frame Adapter

The Telescopic Frame Adapter is our most versatile connection method. Instead of mounting your trailer on the dolly using the coupler, attach the Telescopic Adapter to the frame of your trailer to create a sturdy alternative connection point. We especially recommend this adapter for trailers with lighter tongue weight, or boat trailers – although it is not limited to these uses. Simply bolt it to the Y section of your trailer frame, lower the pipe into the dolly’s receiver tube, then slide in the locking pin.

If you have a hitch type that is not compatible with our dollies’ other mounting systems, then this is a great option.

What connection types work well with this adapter:

• Any, as long as the trailer has a y-shaped frame between these measurements: 2” x 4” and 4” x 6”. It is possible to use it on a smaller trailer frame if you add your own shims.

Gooseneck

With our Transformer 15K, we offer alternative connection methods that are common on larger trailers, one of those being the Gooseneck hitch. If you have a flatbed or transport trailer which uses a Gooseneck connection, we offer a specialized ball mount with stabilizer bars. These are custom items which require building specs such as the height of your trailer hitch from the ground, the hitch ball size, and the trailer leg style. Contact our sales department (1-888-926-5517 ex.1, or sales@parkit360.com) to order your custom Gooseneck adapter.

What connection types work well with this adapter:

• Gooseneck trailers - Gooseneck trailers have a very distinct look, with a “neck” that sticks off the front of the trailer, then connects down into a pickup truck bed at a 90 degree angle, where the hitch is attached to the truck frame. Goosenecks are most often found on flatbeds, horse trailers, and transport trailers.

Kingpin Adapter

If your trailer has a kingpin instead of a Gooseneck ball connection, then you need the Fifth Wheel version of our Transformer 15K. This comes with a 50” Kingpin Adapter, as well as stabilizer arms. As long as your Kingpin Box sits 48” to 52” above the ground, this will work to tow your Fifth Wheel trailer. If your measurements exceed this, please contact us before ordering.

What connection types work well with this adapter:

• Fifth Wheel hitches / Kingpins - Fifth wheels are commonly used for industrial semi trailers and large camper trailers. The fifth wheel itself is a horseshoe-shaped hitch, installed in a pickup truck bed, in which the trailer’s kingpin sits. The kingpin is usually a 2” or 3.5” diameter steel pin that hangs vertically from a kingpin box under the front of the trailer. These heavy-duty connectors are only compatible with some trailer dollies.

Jack Post Connection

Did you know that you can connect your Parkit360 straight to the jack on your trailer? Instead of inserting a connector into the dolly’s receiver tube, you can simply drop your trailer jack post in, and move it that way.

This connection method works best for trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight of 8,000-10,000 lbs or with more than 800 lbs tongue weight, but is an option for any trailer that does not have a compatible coupler.

What doesn't work?

• Articulating hitches - We need a sturdy, constant connection in order to use the leverage from the dolly to move the trailer (without the trailer swaying, turning, or tipping).
• Hitch adapters - Anti-sway (sway bar) systems and weight distribution hitches often have adapters that stay on the coupler to make the connection to the tow vehicle simpler, but these adapters have articulating parts or specialized hookups that do not allow for a good connection to the dolly.

Examples:

• Hensley - These specialized anti-sway hitches use a linkage system to prevent side-to-side movement from the ball while still allowing a full range of motion in other directions. These hitches transfer weight to move the pivot point to the rear axle of the tow vehicle. Hensley hitches do not work well with trailer dollies at all due to their articulating motion. They must essentially be removed from a trailer in order to use the original coupler to connect to the dolly.
• ProPride - This is another specialized anti-sway hitch that uses a coupler adapter featuring articulating parts. This may be the most advanced hitch of its kind, and perfect for heavyweight trailers, but it is not compatible with any trailer dolly at this time. This type of hitch would require a lockout to convert it to a hitch ball connection type, but we’ve yet to find a solution that eliminates the flex in the lockout plate.
• Sway Bar Systems - In addition to Hensley and ProPride, there are a number of anti-sway hitch kits out there. A lot of sway bar systems use extra arms and adapters on the trailer to prevent too much side-to-side movement while driving, whether from wind, tight corners, or an imbalanced trailer load. These bars often interfere with dolly clearance, and the connection points are not often compatible. Other systems, like friction sway control bars, can be added to any hitch and are easy to remove for backing up or driving in slick conditions, meaning that these systems will not interfere with any trailer dolly connection as long as they are removed before connecting the trailer to the dolly.
• Lock & Roll - These articulating hitches are designed for off-road use, allowing for 3 axes of movement. These hitches are not compatible with standard dollies because of their wide range of movement and unusual coupler shape, but most trailers that use a Lock & Roll coupler can be connected to a dolly via Jack Post connection or Telescopic Frame Adapter.
• Andersen hitches - Andersen specializes in making high-quality gooseneck style hitches for fifth wheel trailers. They are some of the most innovative hitches available, making it possible to convert standard kingpin pegs to a gooseneck connection using a coupler block, but they have limited compatibility with specific trailer dollies.

Have a hitch type that’s not listed here, or want to ask further questions? Our sales team would be happy to talk to you about your trailer needs. Call 1-888-926-5517 ex.1, or email sales@parkit360.com.

How many times has parking your trailer turned into a major dispute?

Picture the scene: you arrive home from your fabulous family camping trip, and all you want to do is go inside and unpack. But first, you have to park the trailer.

So, one person gets out to spot and the other begins to maneuver into place. It’s a tight fit, the angle isn’t working, and you’re having trouble communicating with one another. Before you know it, you’re stuck, you’re screaming, and everyone is ready to walk away.

“Why do we keep doing this?” you wonder. “We’d be better off if we never took this trailer out in the first place.”

We get it. Many of us trailer owners have had a hectic parking experience like this (or two, or three). From new campers to boat owners, we’ve all had trouble parking from time to time.

In fact, numerous customers have shared stories like this with us over the years. We’ve had many couples and families recount their stressful attempts to park their trailers in tight or awkward spaces, resulting in raised voices and short tempers.

Those same customers have also shared with us how much easier the parking process was after purchasing a Parkit360.

Just check out some of these reviews:

Been using my 10K Parkit360 a couple of months now and it has been great. My wife says it is worth the cost (she has been guiding me when using the truck to park the TT under a cover).

- Paul Dufford

 

Hubby and I bought this to help park our 23’ Wolf Pup in our driveway. It works like a dream and is easy enough I can even control it. Thanks for the wonderful tool... may have saved a marriage ;-)!

- Heidi Cox

This is going to make the most stressful parts of camping trips a breeze and will also lead to more domestic harmony.

- Jim Ross

 

My wife was not happy when I bought the Parkit360, she kept saying I should 'try to back the trailer in'. Well, the problem is the travel trailer is 11' wide and I would risk hitting the house! But, the Parkit360 worked perfectly and without much effort I was able to guide our trailer in with ease, and when I finished my wife said, "Now I know why you bought it and you were right!"

- Lance Corporal

Parkit360 trailer mover works great. We call it the marriage saver. Nothing more stressful than a couple parking a trailer.

- Jeff Sparkman

These real life stories inspired us to make this video, which tells the story of a couple who are new to camping and have found that parking their trailer is testing their marriage – and impacting their neighbours, too:

We love these stories because they remind us of why we created this product in the first place: Parkit360 trailer dollies don’t just help individuals tackle difficult parking situations – they also save families from a lot of undue stress!

That’s why we made the Force 5K and 10K models. They’re compact, easy to use, and capable of moving most recreational trailers (up to 5,000 and 10,000 lbs). You can store one of these units in your trailer compartment, or in the back of your vehicle, and take it along with you for maneuvering into cramped campsites as well.

Parking doesn’t have to be hard. No matter how tricky the spot, we want people to know that there is a simple solution so that they can feel empowered, confident, and less stressed. Camping should be a pleasant experience, from start to finish. You don’t want a fight over a bad parking job to ruin an otherwise enjoyable time.

Whether a family who is new to camping, or a couple who needs a more effective parking solution, an electric trailer dolly makes things better for everyone.

Don’t let the stress of parking keep you from pursuing your favourite hobbies together. Check out our full line of trailer dollies, and learn to start enjoying each other’s company again!

Airstream trailers are well known and loved because of their distinctive retro designs. They remind us of simpler times and a simple way of life: camping adventures and family road trips without the distractions of technology.

But “retro” doesn’t always mean “simple.” Sometimes there’s room to improve upon the old way of doing things. (After all, if the Airstream was the pinnacle of camping trailers, then they would never have changed the designs. Even now, they are looking for ways to make your travel experiences better than before.)

Take parking, for example. Airstreams are great for towing, but they can be somewhat challenging to park – especially in tight spots. You can try to do it the old-fashioned way, but you’ll find that an electric trailer dolly is a much simpler option. Parkit360’s electric trailer dollies are designed to make this process easier, providing Airstream owners with a convenient and efficient way to park. All you have to do is hook up the hitch, turn it on, and guide your trailer into the perfect camping spot (or parking spot). Now where was that in the “good old days”?

How to hook up an electric trailer dolly to your Airstream

Electric trailer dollies are designed to be compatible with the majority of common hitch types and will work well for any Airstream model. Most dollies (including our Force and Transformer models) will come with the appropriate 2 5/16” hitch ball and 20” high ball mount. Once connected, the dolly will provide smooth and stable control, while allowing you to see exactly how to maneuver the Airstream.

For the Bambi and Caravel models, you’ll need a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. For the larger models (Flying Cloud, International, Globetrotter, and Classic), a 10,000 lbs capacity is best. Parkit360’s Force 5K and 10K are just what you would need.

As an added bonus, Parkit360 dollies come standard with an electric brake controller. Simply plug your 7-way connector straight into the unit, and it will operate your trailer’s brakes, making it easy to move on any terrain, even with an incline.

What’s the best trailer dolly for an Airstream?

We might be a little biased, but we believe that Parkit360 trailer dollies are the ideal product for parking an Airstream. Our dollies operate best with a good weight distribution between the tongue and rest of the trailer (lots of tongue weight for traction, but not so much so that it’s hard to turn the dolly), and Airstreams are just that. You can read some of our customer reviews – including some from Airstream owners – by clicking here!

The truth is, we’re more than a little biased; we love Airstreams! And Airstreams love us.

Thanks to Jill @serendipitoustravels for these awesome photos of her Airstream, lovingly named Veronica!

Parkit360's Electric Trailer Dollies are a must-have for any Airstream trailer owner. They make parking a breeze, whether in the driveway, a crowded campground, or in the great outdoors. If you love the simple lifestyle that an Airstream provides, then you’ll want a simple parking solution as well. Parkit360 is the perfect modern parking solution for your retro trailer.

Moving your boat trailer can be a pain. And I mean that literally.

You’ve likely experienced pain and fatigue after pulling your boat up your driveway, maneuvering it into the garage, or trying to get it into your yard. Does your back hurt afterwards, even from moving it a shorter distance on hard, level ground?

Dragging a 1000+ lbs boat on top of a trailer (that weighs another few hundred pounds) puts a lot of strain on your muscles. Strain that your body is not meant to handle.

And if you have a boat so big and heavy that you’d need the Hulk to help you push it, then you’re probably familiar with the struggle of trying to carefully maneuver the trailer with a vehicle only to find that you can’t get it to go quite where you want it.

This is why many boaters opt to purchase trailer dollies.

A boat trailer dolly can lighten your load

There are several different types of trailer dollies, but they all function in the same basic way by lifting the tongue of the trailer and providing a handle or another method of steering.

If you have ever tried to move your boat trailer by dragging it along on the jack wheel, you will know that the small, hard plastic wheel is not the optimal choice for steering your boat.

A trailer dolly gives you a ball mount that attaches to the hitch, placing the tongue weight onto better wheels with good tires (usually two wheels, rather than one). These provide much better grip. And they aren’t prone to wearing flat on one side, the way the plastic wheels do.

But better tires aren’t the only advantage.

When it comes to hand-pulled trailer dollies, the long handle creates a lever, lessening the amount of force required to move your boat. This maximizes efficiency by allowing you to use less effort to move your boat over the same distances.

Trailer dollies simplify steering

Maneuvering your boat is also a lot easier with a trailer dolly.

Have you ever been frustrated in your attempts to back your boat into a garage or narrow laneway while a spotter shouts directions at you? (Or tried to do it without the spotter and ended up hitting something?) Certain parking jobs require a lot of precision – precision that a vehicle just can’t give you.

The handle setup on a dolly allows you to have a lot more control when it comes to steering. You can make more micro adjustments with a dolly than you can with a motorized vehicle.

Plus, it helps you to see the situation more clearly, instead of through mirrors and car windows.

If you park your boat in a garage or another small space that is awkward for a vehicle, then a trailer dolly can help you move in and out of that spot much more easily. They also let you park your boat in spaces that vehicles could simply never access, providing anti-theft protection.

Electric dollies require even less effort

An electric dolly is more of an investment, but many people find it a worthwhile purchase because of how easy it is to use.

Those who move their boat frequently and over longer distances, who own multiple trailers, or who suffer from chronic pain, might select an electric trailer dolly instead of a manual dolly.

Unlike hand-pulled dollies, electric trailer dollies require no force on the part of the individual. All you have to do to move your boat with an electric dolly is switch on the motor to get the wheels moving, and steer. Some larger models even offer a remote control, so you can walk around and assess your parking job as you steer.

Selecting the right boat trailer dolly

When deciding on which trailer dolly is right for moving your boat, make sure you know the total weight of your boat and trailer, as well as the tongue weight. Dollies are all made with different capacities, so you need make sure that the one you buy can carry the load safely.

You will also want to consider the hitch attachment options to make sure it is compatible.

For a more in-depth understanding of your trailer dolly needs and options, be sure to check out our how-to guide on deciding which trailer dolly is right for you.

And once you know what requirements to look for, it all comes down to personal preference.

Liked this article? Read more on our Blog: The Park: Camping Tips and Product News

 
Parking your trailer in a tight spot? Move up to 15,000 lbs with a Parkit360 Electric Trailer Dolly. Get simple, precise parking for boats, RV's and more!

As a trailer dolly manufacturer, we regularly receive comments from people asking, “Why don’t you just learn to back up a truck?”

While we understand that a trailer dolly is a tool that some people won’t want to use or don’t see a need for, we believe that there are many good reasons to invest in one (even if you’re the best at backing up trailers).

That is why we wholeheartedly say, “No, trailer dollies are not just for people who can’t back up a trailer properly.”

In fact, those who park their trailers using a dolly might actually be parking smarter.

Why would someone get a trailer dolly, then?

As long as you know what you’re doing, backing up a trailer works just fine. But there are things that a trailer dolly can do that a truck simply can’t.

1. Parking with a trailer dolly is easier

Whether you’re the kind of driver who gets out every three seconds to do a full reconnaissance, or an expert backer-upper, parking with a trailer dolly can save you a lot of time and stress.

Even veterans of trailer parking can be bested by impossible spots. This video is a great example of the kind of situation we’re talking about. There is no way you could back that trailer in using a truck without taking out a wall. (But if you’d like to prove us wrong, you’re welcome to try it.)

2. You can create your own security measures

Think about that impossible parking spot. Now imagine what would happen if someone attempted to steal your trailer from that spot. It wouldn’t work, would it?

When you park a trailer or boat using a dolly, you can make your own anti-theft system. If you live in a high-crime area, this is actually a regular usage of trailer dollies.

You might be “the guy who didn’t need a trailer dolly,” but you might also end up as “the guy whose camping trip just got cancelled.”

3. Avoid annoying accidents

Almost 20% of accidents are parking related. And, while you might be great at parking, you can’t guarantee that everyone around you (and your trailer) is too.

Some people choose to invest in a trailer dolly as a means of getting their trailer off the street and stored safely out of harm’s way.

4. No more arguments with your spotter

When you park your trailer using a trailer dolly, there is no need for yelling and arguing as you try to communicate with your spotter.

If you have a trailer, then you can probably recall at least one incident in which someone insisted on helping you back up, even though you assured them that you had everything under control. You’ve probably heard the panicked yells of a spotter who was afraid that you were about to hit something (even though you knew you were fine). Maybe you’ve dealt with someone who repeatedly told you to “keep going” until you heard the unmistakable sound of the trailer hitting your eavestrough.

Our customers often tell us that the tension and conflict caused by backing up a trailer was no longer an issue once they started using a trailer dolly. That’s because, with a dolly, you don’t need a spotter.

Dollies don’t just make parking easier. They also make coming home from a trip easier. Isn’t that something we all want?

Trailer dollies make parking better for everyone

It’s time to stop making excuses about why other people might need a trailer dolly but you certainly don’t. There are lots of good reasons to get a trailer dolly aside from your parking skills.

All kidding aside, you may not choose to invest in a trailer dolly for yourself, and that’s fine. We just want to defend the integrity of our customers by saying: park smarter, not harder.

For first-timers, hauling a trailer can be overwhelming... but if you put time and effort in to learning how, it can be a very valuable skill.

Driving with a trailer is much cheaper than hiring a van, and it means you can move furniture or heavy equipment easily. Take a look at our tailor-towing tips before you plan your next journey!

1. Check your Vehicle's Weight Capacity.
   See your owner’s manual for information about how much weight your vehicle can tow. Large trucks can tow considerably more weight, but make sure you don’t overload your vehicle. This can make it difficult to maneuver, which can result in a crash. 
   
   
2. Check your Hitch Connection.
   Make sure that the trailer is properly attached to your vehicle before hitting the road!
   
   
3. Be Mindful of your Cargo.
   The bigger the trailer, the more adjustments you’ll need to make as a driver. A small utility trailer might be hardly noticeable, but hauling a boat or large RV will require some of your attention and driving skills.
   
   
4. Use a Route Planner.
   Apps such as Route4Me help you plan routes that are RV and trailer friendly.
   
   
5. Take it Slow.
   Speeding up your vehicle will take much longer when you’re towing a trailer. Remember to keep below the speed limit to ensure you don’t end up crashing.
   
   
6. Keep your Distance.
   Allow ample space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you when driving a trailer. The extra weight will make it more difficult to slow down or stop.
   
   
7. Remember to take wider turns.
   With a trailer, your vehicle may be close to double its regular length, so you will have to take turns significantly wider to avoid hitting other cars, curbs, or driving off of the road.
   
   
8. Avoid steering too tightly.
   Reversing while pulling a trailer is a skill that takes a fair bit of practice to hone - if you turn too sharp the trailer will jackknife, or turn sharply in one direction.
   
   
9. Park far away from buildings and other vehicles.
   Parking may be difficult to begin with. Small parking lots may be almost impossible to use when hauling a trailer. If you do manage to maneuver your trailer into a parking space - or across several parking spaces - make sure that you have plenty of room to exit the lot. It is often advisable to park in a remote part of a parking lot where there are fewer surrounding vehicles.
   
   
10. Never underestimate the difficulty of pulling a trailer.
    You should practice driving your trailer in and out of your driveway and navigating quiet back roads before trying to haul a trailer in heavy traffic

Whether you have a lot of experience hauling large vehicles or if you’re planning your first family trip with a travel trailer, towing safely is something to take very seriously. However, by following these 10 pieces of advice, your first trailer trip is bound to go smoothly.

 
Parking your trailer in a tight spot? Move up to 15,000 lbs with a Parkit360 Electric Trailer Dolly. Get simple, precise parking for boats, RV's and more!