Using a Trailer Hire? Follow These Safety Guidelines

15 Oct2025

Using a Trailer Hire? Follow These Safety Guidelines

Trailer rental is an affordable and convenient way to move goods or equipment, and can even be used when moving vehicles. If you are relocating to Perth areas, need to move heavy items, or are planning a long weekend and do not own a large vehicle or anything else, trailer hire Perth is the best option to save time and money. But there’s one key factor many overlook: trailer safety.

If you use a hired trailer in the wrong way, this can result in accidents, fines, or your vehicle being damaged. To keep you safe on the road, be sure to follow these important trailer towing safety tips before you go, while you’re en route, and once you arrive at your destination.

Why Trailer Safety Is Important

You’re essentially adding weight, length, and braking distance to your vehicle by towing a trailer. That means your car won’t handle like it usually does — specifically when going around corners, reversing, and applying brakes. Adhering to safety protocol isn’t just smart — it’s legally mandated and critical for avoiding accidents.

Top Trailer Hire Safety Tips

1. Choose the Right Trailer for the Job

Before you rent a trailer, check that it is compatible with your load:

• Box trailers are suitable for furniture and general freight.
• Car trailers are best for vehicle transport.
• Caged trailers feature additional height for bulky or loose loads.
• Double trailers can also safely handle heavier loads.

Check the load capacity and ensure that it suits your towing demands.

2. Check Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity

There is a maximum towing capacity for every car. (This is the weight of the trailer plus whatever you load into it.) Both are illegal, and the latter is incredibly unsafe.

You can find out how much your car can tow in its owner’s manual, or by consulting the manufacturer. Overloading is hard on the engine, brakes, and suspension.

3. Secure Your Load Properly

Unsecured objects could tumble out or move, creating hazards:

• Use tuff-straps, ropes and lashing points.
• Use a tarp or cargo net to cover items that are loose.
• Weight should be distributed evenly and heavier items placed over the axle.

Pro Tip: An evenly loaded trailer means better control and less high-speed sway.

4. Check Lights, Brakes & Tyres

Before hitting the road, make a safety check:

• Check that all trailer lights (brake, indicators, tail lights) operate.
• Check the pressure of your tyres and the tread depth.
• If you have electric trailer brakes, make sure they are hooked up and working.

Faulty lights or worn tyres are the most common reasons for trailer accidents - and can result in fines.

5. Do A Little Driving Before Hitting The Road

If you’re a novice with towing, practice in an empty lot:

• Make wide turns to avoid catching curbs.
• Leave extra space for stopping.
• Practice backing up — one of the bigger hurdles for new towers.

6. Obey Legal Requirements

There may be local laws but in general:

• Trailers of a certain weight are supposed to have brakes that work.
• There must be a safety chain added for each trailer hitch.
• You might have to use tow mirrors.
• Keep speeds within towing vehicle recommendations.

Before you travel, verify with your local transport authority.

7. Return the Trailer in Good Condition

After your trip:

• Clean the trailer.
• Remove all straps and rubbish.
• Inform the hiring company of any damage or defects.

This not only guarantees the next person a safe trailer but also saves you from any potential fees.

FAQs

Q1: Do you need a special license to pull a trailer?

In the majority of locations, all you need is your standard car license for small trailers. But if you are with a larger or heavier trailer, then an upgraded license may be necessary. Always check local regulations.

Q2: What is the speed I'm permitted when towing a trailer?

Speed limits differ, but most are slower than for regular vehicles. Most places towing maximum of 80-100 km/h.

Q3: Can I rent a trailer if I have never towed before?

Yes, but you would really want to know the basics of towing beforehand. Many hiring companies provide a rapid tutorial or safety guide.

Q4: What if the trailer is damaged whilst I am hiring it?

You’re typically on the hook for damage. Some rental firms will provide insurance when it comes to trailer hire – always enquire before you book.

Q5: How can I tell if my car can tow a trailer?

Look up towing capacity in your car’s manual, or find it online for your make and model.

Final Thoughts

Renting a trailer makes sense for a variety of hauling jobs — but it’s not without responsibility. With these safety tips for towing a trailer, you will be able to proceed in a safe way and have an accident-free journey without any legal hassles or mechanical troubles. There are a few things to consider. Always use a well-known trailer hire company, and always ensure you check your trailer before traveling.

Plantwest is the foremost place to go for the recruitment of high-quality trailer hire services in Perth. Whether you’re looking to hire trailer, Plantwest only supplies top-quality equipment at affordable prices—meaning peace of mind and reliability for every project.