Trailer Safety Checklist

A quick check before you drive away.

If something doesn't look or feel right, don't tow. Call JD Trailer Hire on 0408 131 442.

Before You Leave

4 Must-Check Items Do first

These should always be checked before towing.

Coupling locked securely

Safety chains attached

Trailer plug connected & lights working

Jockey wheel fully raised & secured

Full Checklist

Tick As You Go Tick off

Tap each item to tick it off. Use the progress bar to track where you're up to.

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Trailer Connected

Coupling fully locked onto the tow ballClose the latch and lift-test — the coupling must not come off the ball. Safety chains correctly attachedCross them under the drawbar — enough slack to turn, not so long they drag. Trailer plug connectedPush in firmly and route the cable so it can't drag on the ground. Jockey wheel raised and securedWind it fully up and lock it — a dragging jockey wheel is damaged instantly. Breakaway cable connected (if fitted)Clip it to your vehicle, not the tow ball, if your trailer has one. EB2 Brake Controller connected (if required)Pair the Elecbrakes unit in the app and set the gain for your load.

Load Secure

Load evenly distributedPut heavier items forward of the axle, so weight sits over the tow ball. Load secured with rated strapsUse rated tie-down straps at several points — never the winch cable. Tailgate, ramps or gates securedLatch and pin everything shut so nothing swings open while towing. Trailer is within its load limitStay under the ATM on the compliance plate and your vehicle's tow rating.

Before You Drive

Indicators, brake lights and tail lights workingHave someone stand behind and watch while you test each one. Hire Condition Report completedLog any existing damage with photos before you leave the pickup location. Tyres appear in good conditionCheck both tyres look properly inflated with good tread. Mirrors adjusted for towingSet both mirrors for a clear view down each side of the trailer. Final walk-around completedOne last lap — coupling, chains, plug, lights, tyres and load — before you go.

On the Road

Stop after the first 10 km

Drive smoothly

Know what to do if the trailer sways

If the trailer begins to sway:

Ease off the accelerator.
Keep the steering wheel straight.
Don't brake suddenly.
Pull over safely and check your load.

Trailer Safety Checklist

4 Must-Check Items Do first

Tick As You Go Tick off

Trailer Connected

Load Secure

Before You Drive

On the Road

Brisbane’s Trusted Trailer Hire

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4 Must-Check Items Do first

Tick As You Go Tick off

Trailer Connected

Load Secure

Before You Drive

On the Road

Brisbane’s Trusted Trailer Hire

Quick Links

Policies

Contact Us

Shopping Cart