Top 5 Trailer Safety Checks Before Every Haul

Renting or hauling a trailer comes with responsibility. Whether you're transporting equipment, a vehicle, or general cargo, safety begins before you ever hit the road. At Central Florida Trailer Rentals, we’ve seen firsthand how a few minutes of preparation can prevent thousands in damage and keep everyone safer.

Below are the five most important trailer safety checks you should make before every trip.

1. Inspect Tire Condition and Pressure

Tires are the foundation of your trailer’s safety. Worn, underinflated, or overinflated tires are one of the most common causes of blowouts and roadside incidents.

What to Check:

Tire pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure all tires (including the spare) meet the recommended PSI listed on the trailer placard.

Tread wear: Look for uneven wear, balding, or embedded objects.

Sidewall integrity: Check for cracks, bubbles, or dry rot.

Pro Tip: Trailer tires can lose pressure from sitting idle, even when not in use. Always check before towing.

2. Test All Lights and Electrical Connections

Working trailer lights are legally required and essential for visibility and communication with other drivers.

What to Check:

Brake lights

Turn signals

Running/clearance lights

License plate light

7-pin or 4-flat electrical connection: Ensure it’s securely plugged into the tow vehicle and not corroded.

If your trailer lights flicker or fail to work, check the ground wire and clean off any rust at the contact points.

3. Verify Coupler and Hitch Security

A loose hitch connection is extremely dangerous and can result in the trailer separating from the tow vehicle.

What to Check:

Hitch ball size: Confirm it matches the coupler (e.g., 2" or 2-5/16").

Coupler latch: Fully locked and secured with a hitch pin or coupler lock.

Safety chains: Crossed under the coupler and attached to the tow vehicle’s frame.

Breakaway cable: Properly attached to the tow vehicle—not looped through safety chains.

Always double-check your coupler lock and chains before moving. Even experienced drivers forget!

4. Check Load Distribution and Securement

An unbalanced load can cause swaying, reduced braking performance, or tip-over.

What to Do:

Balance front-to-back: 60% of the load should be in the front half of the trailer. Even side-to-side weight: Avoid favoring one side.

Tie-down equipment: Use E-tracks, D-rings, and proper ratchet straps to prevent shifting.

Strap tension: Tighten straps securely and check for fraying or wear.

Florida law requires all loads be secured—even if you're only moving a short distance.

5. Inspect the Trailer Frame, Deck, and Accessories

A quick walkaround can help you catch visible damage or missing components that could lead to failure during transport.

What to Inspect:

Decking: Look for cracks, weak spots, or slick surfaces (oil, water, debris).

Fenders: Ensure they’re attached and not rubbing tires.

Ramps: If applicable, confirm they’re secured for transport.

Jack stand & landing gear: Fully retracted and locked.

Locks and tools: Confirm you have the coupler lock, spare tire, jack, and lug wrench.

Tip: If your vehicle leaks oil or coolant, place a catch mat under the engine to protect the trailer deck.

Final Thoughts

Performing these five trailer safety checks before every haul can save you from preventable breakdowns, legal issues, or worse—accidents. At Central Florida Trailer Rentals, your safety is our priority, and we include essential tools and safety gear with every rental.

If you have any questions or need assistance during your rental, give us a call at (321)-467-7070. We're here to help ensure your trip goes smoothly from start to finish.

Safe travels,

Ramsey Pantaleon

Owner/Operator

Central Florida Trailer Rentals