Before you tow
Trailer Safety Checklist
Tick through this before you roll. If anything's off, don't tow, call 0420 399 277.
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Important disclaimer
This checklist is general guidance and doesn't replace legal requirements or professional advice. You're responsible for safe towing and compliance with road rules, your vehicle manual, and our hire terms. If unsure at any point, contact 0420 399 277
before proceeding.
Pre-hookup inspection
- Vehicle towing capacity suits trailer weight (check owner's manual or plate).
- Trailer condition OK (tyres, lights, deck, pins). Report any damage before use.
- Tyre pressures set (vehicle and trailer). Example baseline ~275 kPa / 40 psi.
- Tow ball size and height matches the coupling.
- Brakes (if fitted) ready, electric brakes paired and working.
- Insurance and coverage checked as needed.
Hookup verification
- Coupling latched and locked. Test by winding the jockey wheel to slightly lift the vehicle.
- Safety chains crossed under the hitch, secure, with slack for turns (no dragging).
- Breakaway wire (if fitted) attached to the vehicle (not the chain), with light slack.
- Electrical plug connected, cable secured clear of the road.
- Jockey wheel fully raised and locked, or removed and stowed.
- Tow-ball weight around 10% of trailer mass (adjust load position if needed).
Loading guidelines
- Heaviest items over or forward of the axle; keep the centre of gravity low and centred.
- Use rated straps or chains at multiple points; restrain in all directions.
- Cover loose loads; flag any legal overhangs.
- No hazardous materials. Bundle or contain liquids; carry a spill kit if required.
- Total mass within vehicle and trailer limits (ATM/GTM, towbar rating).
Pre-departure final check
- Lights working: indicators, brakes, tails, hazards (get a mate to check).
- Mirrors adjusted for a clear side view; add extensions if required.
- Spare wheel, jack and tools present and accessible.
- Hire docs and emergency contacts handy (0420 399 277).
- Walk-around: hitch, chains, load, wheels, nothing loose.
On-road best practices
- Lower speeds (max 100 km/h or posted); longer following distance.
- Brake and accelerate gently; use lower gears downhill.
- Stop every ~2 hours: re-check straps, tyres, hitch, plugs.
- If sway starts: ease off the throttle, don't jab the brakes; pull over to rebalance.
- Let traffic pass when safe; watch for wind gusts off trucks.
- No passengers in the trailer; manage fatigue with breaks.
Arrival and return tips
- Park level; chock the wheels and apply the handbrake before detaching.
- Inspect for damage; clean down; report issues immediately.
- Remove personal items; secure the trailer per the return instructions.
- Log any incidents or notes for the record.