Hooking up your trailer and heading out might seem as simple as locking the coupler and hitting the gas—but skipping a pre-tow inspection can cost you time, money, and safety.
At Load’em Up Trailers, we’ve seen it all: flat tires halfway through a trip, faulty brake connections, safety chains hanging by a thread. Most of these headaches could have been avoided with just a few minutes of inspection before pulling out of the driveway.
That’s why we’ve put together our Trailer Pre-Tow Checklist—a quick, practical guide to ensure you and your trailer are ready for the road.
Why a Pre-Tow Inspection Is Important
A pre-tow inspection is more than just routine—it’s a safety requirement for responsible trailering. By taking a few minutes to check your equipment, you can:
• Prevent breakdowns that leave you stranded.
• Avoid accidents caused by faulty brakes, lights, or couplers.
• Save money by catching small issues before they become big repairs.
• Protect your cargo and ensure it arrives safely.
Trailer Pre-Tow Inspection Checklist
1. Tires
• Check tire pressure with a reliable gauge—inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
• Inspect tread depth (use the penny test) and look for cracks, bulges, or punctures.
• Make sure lug nuts are tight and secure.
2. Lights & Signals
• Test brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
• Have someone stand behind the trailer to confirm brightness and visibility.
• Replace burned-out bulbs and fix faulty wiring before towing.
3. Brakes
• Test electric or surge brakes before leaving.
• If electric, ensure the brake controller is set correctly for your load.
• Listen for unusual noises or uneven braking during a short test pull.
4. Hitch & Coupler
• Inspect for cracks, rust, or excessive wear.
• Make sure the coupler latches securely onto the hitch ball.
• Verify the hitch pin or lock is properly inserted.
5. Safety Chains & Hooks
• Cross chains under the tongue for added security.
• Check for rust, bent links, or worn hooks.
• Ensure they are properly attached to the tow vehicle.
6. Trailer Brake Controller Cable
• Inspect for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections.
• Plug in securely and confirm the connection is transmitting power to the brakes.
7. Battery (if equipped)
• For trailers with a breakaway system, check battery charge level.
• Clean battery terminals to remove corrosion.
• Replace if it no longer holds a charge.
8. Suspension & Axles
• Look for bent components, cracked springs, or loose hardware.
• Check for unusual tire wear, which can indicate alignment or suspension issues.
9. Grease & Lubrication
• Apply grease to couplers, tongue jacks, and other moving parts.
• Check wheel bearings for smooth operation and grease if needed.
Final Safety Tip
Before pulling away, take one last walk around the trailer to make sure everything is secure—from cargo straps to locking mechanisms. It’s a simple step that can prevent a major disaster on the road.
At Load’em Up Trailers, we don’t just rent and service trailers—we help you get the most out of every mile. If you find anything during your pre-tow inspection that needs attention, our team is here to help.
For your convenience, we’ve gathered more Trailer Safety and Maintenance Checklists below:
https://www.dextergroup.com/user_area/content_media/raw/dexters-trailer-service-checklist.pdf
During your inspection, if you notice your trailer needs maintenance or repair, contact Load’em Up Trailers to schedule service and ensure every trip is a safe one. Give us a call today 952-594-9054.