We answer this straight away: inspect ID, licence details and take photos of both licence and the trailer while it’s hitched. We also test plugs, lights and brakes so your vehicle and hire match for safe travel.
At Smooth Moves Trailers we build and service trailers across Adelaide. Our advice is plain and practical. We focus on safety, quality and long life on SA roads.
Before you drive off, verify plug type and pins, test brake and indicator lights, and confirm the coupling is well greased and free of damage. Photograph the jockey wheel, handbrake and number plate in their travel positions for records.
Inspect tyres, wheel nuts, bearings and the chassis for wear or cracked welds. If anything seems off, we’ll repair, service or fabricate what’s needed so the unit tows properly. Call 0447 100 145 to book a safety inspection, request a quote or ask for practical advice.
Key takeaways
- Confirm ID and licence, and photograph both sides of the hitched trailer.
- Test plug compatibility and all lights before departure.
- Check coupling, brakes, jockey wheel and secure pins.
- Inspect tyres, bearings, wheel nuts and chassis welds for poor condition.
- Document everything with photos to avoid disputes.
- Call Smooth Moves Trailers on 0447 100 145 for a pre-hire safety check.
Why pre-hire checks matter for safe, reliable towing in Adelaide
Practical checks make towing predictable, safer and far less stressful on SA roads. We lead with clear benefits: safer travel, less downtime and longer gear life. Our advice is plain and useful.
Benefits on the road: safety, time saved, fewer surprises
Safety is primary. Simple steps reduce roadside failures and fines for non-working lights or an obscured plate. Good prep also saves time by catching loose plugs, low tyres and bad bulbs before you leave.
How we work: simple process, honest advice, Adelaide conditions in mind
Our process is step-by-step and practical. We confirm towing capacity, test lights and indicators, inspect tyre pressure and tread, tug the hitch, cross the safety chains and set override spacers on mechanical brakes. We run a short road feel test and record photos for your records.
- Pre-hire checks protect you, the trailer and your vehicle.
- We tailor checks for heat, corrugations and wet conditions.
- We give honest advice and fix issues before you leave.
Book a pre-hire safety check or request a quote: call 0447 100 145.
What to check before hiring a trailer
Simple checks make towing safer and cut the chance of roadside failure. We explain each inspection in plain language, show the benefit, then note the workshop work we do if faults appear.
Match your tow set-up
Benefit: legal, safe towing. Confirm the tow bar rating, tow ball size and that your vehicle’s towing capacity exceeds the trailer’s loaded weight.
Work: verify plates, test fit the coupling and swap tow balls if sizes differ.
Electrical plugs and lights
Benefit: visibility and compliance. Test plug type and pins, then run brake lights, indicators, clearance and number plate lamps.
Work: we repair plug faults and fix wiring issues in our workshop.
Brakes, break-away and coupling
Benefit: controlled stopping and avoided drum damage. Ensure the over-ride brake system engages forward and that the handbrake is fully off for travel.
Work: service brakes, set override spacers, lubricate the coupling and cross safety chains in an X.
Wheels, jockey wheel, chassis and load
Check tyre pressure, tread, torque wheel nuts and wheel bearings for play. Confirm the jockey wheel locks and is stowed upright with pins engaged.
Walk the drawbar and chassis for cracks or poor welds. Load items low and centred, aim for 8–12% ball weight, and secure with rated straps.
Road feel test: build speed slowly, allow extra stopping distance, and watch for sway. If you find wiring faults, bearing play or weld damage, don’t tow—call 0447 100 145 for repairs or a service.
| Check | Benefit | Workshop task |
|---|---|---|
| Tow bar & tow ball match | Safe coupling, correct rating | Fit correct ball, verify plate ratings |
| Plugs & lights | Legal visibility | Plug repairs, wiring fault find |
| Brakes & break-away | Controlled stops | Brake service, spacer set |
| Wheels & bearings | Reduced breakdown risk | Grease bearings, torque nuts |
| Chassis & drawbar | Prevent structural failure | Weld repairs, rust treatment |
Choosing the right hire trailer and driving with confidence
Selecting the right unit makes every trip easier and safer on Adelaide roads. We help you match size and type with load and local conditions so you travel with confidence.
Pick the right size and type
Open or enclosed? Choose open for bulky, dirty loads. Choose enclosed for weather protection and security of items in wet or dusty conditions.
Match size to the job. Too small forces unsafe stacking. Too large adds weight and wind drag.
Practice the basics
Rehearse hitching: latch the coupling, pull firmly, and cross safety chains in an X. Stow the jockey wheel upright and seat the light plug so the lights stay on over bumps.
Reverse in a quiet car park. The steering turns opposite; use small inputs and set mirrors to see wheels and guards. Allow extra stopping distance for added mass and watch for sway. If wobble appears, stop and adjust load or tyre pressures.
When to call us
Need custom racks, tool storage or off-road fitment? We design, fabricate and service solutions for special needs. Book repairs or a full safety service and request a quote on 0447 100 145.
- Choose open for bulky loads; enclosed for weather protection.
- Plan your route and allow extra time for turns and parking with trailer hire.
- Start with a short loop to feel brake response and turning radius.
- Call us for custom work, fabrication or a safety service on 0447 100 145.
Conclusion
Final takeaway: simple inspections protect your gear and cut roadside headaches.
Confirm towing capacity, secure the hitch with X-cross chains, test lights and brake function, set tyre pressures and torque wheel nuts, and photograph the unit in full condition.
Balance and secure loads, watch for sway or vibration, and pull over if any issues appear. These steps prevent damage, keep your vehicle and trailers working as one, and extend service life on Adelaide roads.
For peace of mind and quality repairs, call 0447 100 145 to book servicing, repairs, custom builds or a pre-hire safety check for reliable trailer hire and long-term performance.
FAQ
What should we inspect on the tow setup and vehicle compatibility?
We confirm towbar rating, towball size and the vehicle’s towing capacity. We make sure the hitch matches the coupler and that the load won’t exceed the tow vehicle’s limits. If modifications are needed, we advise against travel until they’re completed.
How do we verify lights and electricals are working correctly?
We test brake lights, indicators, tail and number plate lamps, plus clearance lights. We check the electrical plug for corrosion, secure pins and correct wiring. If any lamp fails, we replace or repair before departure.
What do we look for in brake systems and break-away units?
We inspect mechanical or electric brakes for operation and even wear. We test the break-away system and battery, and ensure the manual handbrake is released for travel. Any drag, noise or uneven braking prompts immediate service.
How should coupling and safety chains be set up?
We check the coupling for wear, cracks and lubrication. Safety chains should be X‑crossed under the drawbar, of correct length and free from damage. All pins and latches must be secure and locking devices engaged.
What to inspect on jockey wheels and stowage?
We ensure the jockey wheel is vertical, locked and fastened with retaining pins. The wheel should lift and lower smoothly and be fully stowed for travel. A loose or missing pin means no departure until fixed.
What checks do we perform on tyres, wheels and bearings?
We confirm tyre pressures and tread depth, look for cuts or bulges and torque wheel nuts to spec. We spin hubs to detect play or roughness and check for fresh grease or overheating signs. Any fault gets addressed.
How do we assess chassis, drawbar and body condition?
We inspect for cracks, corrosion, loose welds and bent sections. We examine chassis rails, drawbar alignment and mounting points. Structural defects require repair or a different trailer choice.
What guidance do we give on load size and balance?
We match trailer size to cargo and confirm payload limits. We position weight with about 5–10% nose load, secure items with rated tie‑downs and cover loads that could shift in transit. Improper balance increases sway risk.
Should we document the trailer condition and paperwork?
Yes. We verify ID and licences, record hire agreement details and take condition photos from all angles. Photos protect both parties and speed resolution if damage is found later.
What do we check during a road test?
We perform a short drive to assess braking distances, steering feel and any sway. We listen for unusual noises and check that indicators and break lights operate under load. If anything feels unsafe, we halt and rectify.
How do we choose the right size and type for our load?
We consider item dimensions, weather protection needs and ease of loading. Enclosed trailers suit sensitive gear; open trailers work for bulky items. We recommend a margin of capacity rather than a tight fit.
What basic skills should we practise before towing on public roads?
We practise hitch checks, reversing with slow controlled inputs and smooth lane changes. We advise rehearsing braking and slow-speed manoeuvres in a safe area to build confidence before longer trips.
When should we contact the hire company for extra help?
We call for custom load restraints, signs of mechanical failure, damage discovered at pickup or if we need a full safety service. Prompt reporting lets us arrange repairs or an alternative trailer quickly.