Trailer Safety Checklist

This comprehensive safety checklist is designed to guide even first-time renters through the essential steps for safely hiring and towing a trailer. Follow each step carefully to ensure a secure and trouble-free experience.

Understanding Your Trailer and Tow Vehicle

• Know Your Trailer Type: Familiarize yourself with the type of trailer you're renting (e.g., car trailer, cage trailer, etc.) and its specific features.
• Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure your vehicle is capable of towing the trailer. Check your vehicle's towing capacity in the owner’s manual.

Before Hooking Up the Trailer

• Thorough Inspection:
  Check the trailer for any visible damage. Look for dents, rust, or cracks on the frame and body. Report any damage before departure.
• Tire Safety:
  Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire, including the spare, against the recommended PSI found on the tire’s sidewall.
  Inspect the tires for any signs of wear such as deep treads, bulges, or visible cords.
• Lighting and Electrical Check:
  Plug the trailer’s electrical connector into your vehicle. Turn on your vehicle’s headlights, and then walk around the trailer to ensure that all lights are working.
• Brake System and Breakaway Cable:
  If the trailer has brakes, check the brake fluid reservoir. Ensure the breakaway cable is undamaged and can be attached to your tow vehicle.
• Safety Chain Inspection:
  Examine the chains for any signs of damage or excessive wear. They should not have any kinks, twists, or severe rust.

Hooking Up the Trailer

• Attaching the Trailer:
  Align your tow vehicle with the trailer. Lower the trailer onto the hitch ball until it’s fully seated. Lock the coupler and secure the latch with a pin or lock.
• Safety Chains:
  Crisscross the chains under the trailer tongue and hook them to the tow vehicle, ensuring there is enough slack for turning.
• Electrical Connection:
  Connect the trailer’s wiring to your vehicle's socket. Ensure the connection is secure and that the wires are not dragging on the ground.
• Brake Connection:
  If the trailer has its own braking system, connect the brake controller and adjust it according to the load.

Loading the Trailer

• Weight Distribution:
  Place heavier items in the front half of the trailer. Secure the load with straps or ropes to prevent shifting.
• Securing the Load:
  Use tie-downs to secure items firmly in place. Make sure that nothing is loose or can become airborne.

Pre-Departure Checks

• Final Inspection:
  Walk around the trailer to perform a final check of the hitch, chains, and load.
• Brake and Signal Lights:
  Have someone stand behind the trailer while you test the brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights.
• Mirror Adjustments:
  Adjust your vehicle's mirrors so you have a clear view of the trailer and the road behind.
• Documentation:
  Make sure you have all necessary documents, including your rental agreement and any required permits or licenses.

Safe Towing Tips

• Driving with a Trailer:
  Drive at a reduced speed and allow for increased stopping distance. Avoid sudden maneuvers and sharp turns.
• Regular Checks:
  Stop at regular intervals to check the trailer, tires, and load. Adjust as needed.
• Monitoring Trailer Behavior:
  Be alert to changes in the trailer’s handling, sounds, or performance. Investigate any concerns immediately.