First-Time Renter FAQs
Short, practical answers. If anything doesn’t feel right, don’t tow — call 1300 418 285.
How do I check if my car can tow one of your trailers?
Check your vehicle owner’s manual or compliance plate for the braked / unbraked towing limit and towbar rating. The total of trailer + load must be within those limits. Aim for about 8–12% ball load(10% sweet spot) for stability.
See also: Queensland towing rules , Loading guide.
Which trailers have brakes and do I need a brake controller in my car?
Unbraked:
up to ~750 kg ATM.
Overrun (mechanical):
fitted on many mid-size trailers above 750 kg ATM.
Electric brakes:
on heavy-duty / tilt car trailers and some flat tops. No in-car controller needed — we use Elecbrakes(phone app powers the unit when headlights are on).
See also: Elecbrakes setup.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
No deposit — you only pay for your hire with Empire Trailer Hire.
How much can I load onto the trailer?
Stay within your vehicle’s towing limit, your towbar rating, and the trailer’s ATM. Distribute weight with roughly 60% forward of the axle and target ~10% ball load. If in doubt, reduce the load.
See also: Safety checklist , Loading guide.
Where do I pick up and return?
Your exact location and access PIN are in your confirmation email/SMS. We offer 24/7 self-service pick-up and return across our locations.
Need help? Request a new PIN or Safety hub.
What should I do if the trailer starts to sway (fishtail)?
Ease off the throttle(don’t stab the brakes). Hold the wheel steady, slow down, then stop and re-balance the load with more weight forward. Check tyre pressures and strap tension.
See also: Driving tips , Loading guide.
Any advice for moving heavy, dense items (tiles, books, pavers, sand)?
Dense items build weight fast. Load in small batches, keep them low and centred, and use rated straps(WLL visible) with edge protectors. Re-check strap tension after the first 10 km.
Can I take the trailer interstate?
Yes — hires include unlimited kilometres. For remote or long trips, let us know so we can advise on support and tyre pressures. Always follow local road rules in each state.
See also: Towing regulations (QLD).
Are enclosed trailers waterproof?
They’re weather-resistant, not guaranteed watertight. For valuables, bag or wrap items and keep them off the floor.
Do your trailers have tie-down points?
Yes — all trailers include rated tie-down points. Use at least two independent straps per item; more for tall or irregular loads.
What’s the simplest way to load correctly?
Keep the centre of gravity low, put ~60% of weight in front of the axle, and aim for ~10% ball load. Strap everything tight and re-check tension after 10 km.
See also: Step-by-step loading.
Elecbrakes won’t connect — what can I try?
- Turn headlights ON(this powers the unit).
- Close the app on other phones; Elecbrakes connects to one device at a time.
- Open the app, stand near the drawbar, and retry pairing. If needed, remove old Elecbrakes devices from your Bluetooth list and reconnect.
Full guide: Elecbrakes page. Still stuck? Call 1300 418 285.
What plug do your trailers use? Do you have adaptors?
Most trailers are 7-pin flat. We include an on-board adaptor where applicable — check the drawbar or your confirmation email.
