Pre-Trip Inspection – Empire Trailer Hire
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Pre-Trip Inspection

A quick walk-around before every trip. If anything isn't right — don't tow. Call 1300 418 285.

Find an issue? Fix it before you leave. Even minor problems can become serious at speed. Call 1300 418 285 if you're unsure whether a trailer is safe to tow.
4 Non-Negotiables Do First

These four must be right before anything else. Zero exceptions.

Hitch down & locked
Safety chains secured
Lights plugged in & working
Jockey wheel up & stowed
Full Inspection Walk-Around

Work through each area. Tap the tabs to switch between inspection zones — progress carries across all areas.

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🔍 Exterior
🔗 Connection
⚙️ Brakes & Electrics
✅ Final Checks
Trailer Exterior — walk all the way around
Tyres look firm, no bulges or cuts Check pressure against label on trailer (usually 40–55 psi). Include the spare.
Wheel nuts tight, no visible cracks on rims Give each wheel a visual check. Loose nuts are a serious safety hazard.
Lights and reflectors clean and working Brake lights, tail lights, and indicators all functioning. Clean off any mud or grime.
Number plate visible and firmly attached Not bent, not obscured by load, not hanging loose.
Coupler and drawbar in good condition No cracks, excessive wear, or rust on the coupling head or drawbar tube.
Safety chains undamaged, shackles intact No deformed or worn links. Shackle pins fully tightened and moused if possible.
No damage, dents, or cracks on the frame Anything structural that doesn't look right — report it before you leave.
Connection to Tow Vehicle — the critical link
Hitch coupler locked on the tow ball Handle flat and pinned. Do a lift test — the coupling must not move off the ball.
Safety chains crossed and shackled Left chain to right towbar point, right to left. Correct length — no dragging, not too tight for turns.
Electrical lead plugged in, not dragging Route it through the towbar handle. Use adaptor from red toolbox if needed.
Jockey wheel fully up and locked horizontal Rotate flat and lock the clamp. A dragging jockey wheel will be destroyed quickly.
Mirrors adjusted — clear view down both sides Extension mirrors may be legally required depending on trailer width. Check QLD regs.
Brakes & Electrics — confirm before every trip
Overrun brake latch in correct position Up = tow (brakes active). Down = reverse (brakes disengaged). Check before driving.
Electric brake controller set if fitted Gain: empty ≈ 40%, loaded = 80–100%. Connected via Elecbrakes app with headlights on.
Breakaway battery LED is green A red LED means a flat battery — call us before towing.
Brake lights and indicators confirmed working Have someone stand behind while you test each one from inside your vehicle.
Final Pre-Departure Checks — last things before you drive
Route reviewed — no low clearances or tight streets Check your route for low bridges and narrow lanes before leaving. Plan an alternative if needed.
Weather and road conditions checked Strong wind, rain, and gravel all require reduced speed and extra care.
Emergency gear on board Spare tyre, jack, wheel brace, chocks, and basic tools. Know where they are.
Phone charged and 1300 418 285 saved If anything goes wrong, pull over safely and call us immediately. We're 24/7.