Cargo Trailer Inspection Checklist

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Your cargo trailer does a tough job. High-quality cargo trailers are designed to carry heavy loads over long distances, all while braving the elements and keeping your cargo intact. Return the favor by performing regular maintenance and safety checks, and your trailer will reward you with many years of faithful service. The following checklists can help you watch out for potential issues and ensure your whole rig is ready for the road.

Are you thinking about purchasing a cargo trailer? Learning about trailer maintenance is a great place to start. When you’re ready to look at some new and used models, head to TSI Trailers. We have a great selection at our dealership in Van Alstyne, TX.

Consult Your Owner’s Manual

Before we get down to business, it’s worth noting that these are only general guidelines. Your trailer model may have specific maintenance requirements, so be sure to check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for more detailed information.

Inspect Your Tow Vehicle

Your tow vehicle makes up half the equation when it comes to safely towing your cargo trailer, so don’t forget to give your tow vehicle a quick inspection before each trip.

The weight of your fully loaded trailer should fall well within your tow vehicle’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating).
Top off your tanks as needed to ensure adequate fluid levels.
Tire pressure should match the recommendation listed in your owner’s manual.
Your vehicle’s lug nuts should be tight, and the wheels should be free from damage.
Your brakes and lights should be working normally.
Side view mirrors should provide an unobstructed view on both sides of the vehicle.
Take care of any repair needs before using your vehicle to tow your cargo trailer.

Inspect Your Hitch

The safety of you and your cargo may depend on the condition of your hitch. Take the time to ensure a safe and secure attachment before you hit the road.

The weight of your fully loaded trailer should fall well within the weight capacity of your hitch.
The receiver must be properly mounted to the tow vehicle.
The receiver, draw bar, hitch ball, coupler, sway control device, spring bars, safety chains, and power connection wiring should all be functional and compatible with both the tow vehicle and your trailer.
The power and brake control connections should be compatible with your tow vehicle and trailer, and provide sufficient slack for turning.
The landing gear should be functioning normally.
The hitch ball and coupler should be the same size. Confirm that the ball is firmly seated in the coupler when attached, and the latching mechanism is locked.
The safety chains should be securely attached at both ends, crossing under the trail tongue in an “X” shape.
The safety chains should provide sufficient slack for turning.
The safety chain eyelets should have their open-ended hooks facing the outside of the hitch connection.

Inspect Your Trailer

Now let’s take a look at the cargo trailer itself. Perform these checks before loading your cargo:

The trailer frame should be free of any cracks, bulges, and other signs of damage that may indicate a weak frame.
The tail lights, clearance lights, brake lights, directional signs, hazard lights, and reflectors should all be in working order.
The tires should be properly inflated and balanced. Check for signs of excessive wear, and replace tires as needed.
The lug nuts should be tight and free of rust.
All latches, hinges, and pins should be snug.
Brakes should be working properly and adjusted for your load weight.
The deck should be clean and free of any loose items or debris that could jostle around and damage your cargo in transit.

Once everything checks out, it’s safe to begin loading your cargo.

Check Weight Distribution

When your cargo has been loaded securely, it’s time to double-check your weight distribution.

Your cargo should be spread evenly throughout the deck to create the lowest possible center of gravity.
Your towing vehicle and trailer should have even weight distributions when taken separately (left to right, front to rear). You can verify either by visual inspection or scale measurements.
Your loaded trailer should sit level when attached to the tow vehicle.

When you’re finished running down this checklist, you can proceed with confidence!

Of course, even the most well-maintained cargo trailer will have the occasional need for professional attention. If you’re looking for a qualified service department in the Dallas / Fort Worth area, look no further than TSI Trailers in Van Alstyne, TX. Your cargo trailer will be in good hands with our highly trained technicians.