Trailer Safety Checklist – Empire Trailer Hire
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Safety Checklist

Tick every item before you tow. If anything isn't right — don't move. Call 1300 418 285.

Not sure? Don't tow. Call 1300 418 285 with your order number — we're here 24/7.
Every Single Time
4 Non-Negotiables Do First

Before anything else — these four things must be right or you don't leave.

Hitch down & locked
Chains crossed & secured
Lights plugged in & working
Jockey wheel up & stowed
Full Checklist Tick Off

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

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🔗 Hooking Up
✓
Hitch locked onto tow ball Handle flat; do a lift test — the coupling must not move off the ball.
✓
Safety chains crossed & attached Cross left-to-right under the drawbar. Enough slack for turns, not so long they drag.
✓
Electrical lead plugged in Use adaptor if needed (check red toolbox). Cable routed so it won't drag.
✓
Jockey wheel fully up & locked horizontal Rotate it flat and lock before moving — a dragging jockey wheel will be damaged immediately.
✓
Brakes set correctly Overrun: reversing latch up to tow. Electric brakes: connected via app, gain set for load.
📦 Loading
✓
Weight distribution correct Heavy items forward of the axle. Aim for ~60% front, 40% rear. About 10% of total weight on the tow ball.
✓
Load strapped at multiple points Use proper tie-down straps — not the winch cable. Re-check tension after a few km.
✓
Nothing overhanging or at risk of falling Any overhang over 1.2m from the rear needs a red flag or light. Secure loose items.
✓
Within trailer & vehicle tow limits Check your vehicle manual for tow capacity. Don't exceed the trailer's ATM (on compliance plate).
✅ Pre-Departure
✓
Tail lights, brake lights & indicators working Have someone stand behind the trailer while you test each one.
✓
Mirrors adjusted for trailer width You need a clear line of sight down both sides of the trailer. Extension mirrors may be required by law.
✓
Final walk-around complete Hitch, chains, lead, lights, tyres, load — do a full lap before you drive off.
✓
Rental details & phone handy Keep your order confirmation accessible. Our 24/7 number is 1300 418 285.
🚗 On the Road
✓
Driving smoothly with extra following distance Max 100 km/h. Trailers need significantly longer stopping distances — double your usual gap.
✓
Stopping periodically to re-check After the first 10–15 km, stop and check tyre heat, strap tension, and lights again.
✓
Know what to do if the trailer sways Ease off the throttle gradually — don't brake hard or steer sharply. Rebalance load if it persists.
Need More Detail? Deep Dive

Tap any section for the full explanation behind each checklist item.

Understanding Your Trailer
▾
  • Know the trailer type — cage, enclosed, car trailer, mine-spec, etc. — as each has specific features.
  • Check your vehicle manual for tow capacity and towbar rating. Never exceed either.
  • All Empire trailers use a 50mm ball. An adaptor is in the red toolbox if your plug doesn't match.
  • The ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) is on the compliance plate — this is the max loaded weight.
Tyre & Trailer Condition
▾
  • Check tyre pressure before departure — refer to the label on the trailer (usually 40–55 psi). Include the spare.
  • Inspect for any damage, cracks, or wear. Report anything before you leave the site.
  • After the first stretch of driving, feel the wheel hubs — excessive heat means a bearing problem. Stop and call us.
Loading Tips
▾
  • Place heaviest items low and forward of the axle. Aim for around 60% of weight in the front half.
  • Around 10% of total trailer weight should be on the ball — too little causes sway, too much strains the towbar.
  • Use multiple rated tie-down straps at different angles. Check tension again after 10–15 km.
  • Never use the winch cable as a tie-down. It is for loading only.
Driving with a Trailer
▾
  • Max speed is 100 km/h in Queensland. Reduce in wet, windy, or rough conditions.
  • Stopping distances are much longer — leave at least double your normal following gap.
  • If sway starts, ease off the throttle gently. Do not brake hard or steer sharply — this makes sway worse.
  • Wide turns, slow reversing, extra mirrors — give yourself time and space.
Related Guides Up Next

Guides that go deeper on items in this checklist.

How to Attach a Trailer Step-by-step coupling, chains, and lights
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Loading & Unloading Guide Weight distribution, tie-downs, and safe loading
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Driving Tips with a Trailer Sway, reversing, stopping distances
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Report an Issue Something not right? Let us know before you leave.
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