Tick every item before you tow. If anything isn't right — don't move. Call 0477 957 051.
Not sure? Don't tow. Call 0477 957 051 with your order number — we're here to help.
Four Non-Negotiables — Do These First
Hitch down & locked
Chains crossed & secured
Lights plugged in & working
Jockey wheel up & stowed
Full Checklist
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Hooking Up
✓
Hitch locked onto tow ball
Handle flat; do a lift test — the coupling must not move off the ball.
✓
Safety chains crossed & attached
Cross left-to-right under the drawbar. Enough slack for turns, not so long they drag.
✓
Electrical lead plugged in
Use adaptor if needed (check red toolbox). Cable routed so it won't drag.
✓
Jockey wheel fully up & locked horizontal
Rotate it flat and lock before moving — a dragging jockey wheel will be damaged immediately.
✓
Brakes set correctly
Overrun: reversing latch up to tow. Electric brakes: connected via app, gain set for load.
Loading
✓
Weight distribution correct
Heavy items forward of the axle. Aim for ~60% front, 40% rear. About 10% of total weight on the tow ball.
✓
Load strapped at multiple points
Use proper tie-down straps — not the winch cable. Re-check tension after a few km.
✓
Nothing overhanging or at risk of falling
Any overhang over 1.2m from the rear needs a red flag or light. Secure all loose items.
✓
Within trailer & vehicle tow limits
Check your vehicle manual for tow capacity. Don't exceed the trailer's ATM (on compliance plate).
Pre-Departure
✓
Tail lights, brake lights & indicators working
Have someone stand behind the trailer while you test each one.
✓
Mirrors adjusted for trailer width
You need a clear line of sight down both sides of the trailer. Extension mirrors may be required by law.
✓
Final walk-around complete
Hitch, chains, lead, lights, tyres, load — do a full lap before you drive off.
✓
Booking details & phone handy
Keep your order confirmation accessible. Our number is 0477 957 051.
On the Road
✓
Driving smoothly with extra following distance
Comply with posted speed limits. Staying at or below 100 km/h is strongly recommended regardless — trailers need significantly longer stopping distances.
✓
Stopping periodically to re-check
After the first 10–15 km, stop and check tyre heat, strap tension, and lights again.
✓
Know what to do if the trailer sways
Ease off the throttle gradually — don't brake hard or steer sharply. Rebalance load if it persists.
Need More Detail?
1
Understanding Your Trailer
Know what you're towing before you drive
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Know the trailer type — caged box, car trailer, cattle trailer — each has specific features and attachment points.
Check your vehicle manual for tow capacity and towbar rating. Never exceed either.
All Croc Hire trailers use a 50mm ball. An adaptor is in the red toolbox if your plug doesn't match.
The ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) is on the compliance plate — this is the maximum loaded weight allowed.
2
Tyre & Trailer Condition
What to check and when to stop
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Check tyre pressure before departure — refer to the label on the trailer (usually 40–55 psi). Include the spare.
Inspect for any damage, cracks, or wear. Report anything before you leave the site.
After the first stretch of driving, feel the wheel hubs — excessive heat means a bearing problem. Stop and call us on 0477 957 051.
3
Loading Tips
Weight, straps, and what not to do
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Place heaviest items low and forward of the axle. Aim for around 60% of weight in the front half.
Around 10% of total trailer weight should be on the ball — too little causes sway, too much strains the towbar.
Use multiple rated tie-down straps at different angles. Check tension again after 10–15 km.
Never use the winch cable as a tie-down. It is for loading only.
4
Driving with a Trailer
Speed, sway, and stopping
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Comply with posted speed limits. Staying at or below 100 km/h is strongly recommended for safety when towing — reduce further in wet, windy, or rough conditions.
Stopping distances are much longer — leave at least double your normal following gap.
If sway starts, ease off the throttle gently. Do not brake hard or steer sharply — this makes sway worse.
Wide turns, slow reversing, extra mirrors — give yourself time and space.