Your first trailer hire: what to check before collection

Four things to have ready

Your first enquiry is easier when it includes four things: the dates, the load, the towing vehicle and any access restrictions. You do not need to know every technical detail to ask a question, but the hire should only be agreed once suitability and requirements are clear.

If you are buying an item from a seller, avoid committing to a collection slot until the trailer hire has been confirmed. A form submission alone does not reserve equipment.

Check your vehicle’s limits

Read the towing information for your exact vehicle, rather than another version of the same model. You need to consider its permitted towing weight and combined weight limit, along with the limits of the towbar and coupling. The contents of the car, passengers and luggage also contribute to the vehicle combination.

Send us the make, model and year, but use the manufacturer’s handbook and plates to establish the actual limits. If you cannot establish suitability, resolve it before making the booking.

Check your driving entitlement

Use the current GOV.UK guidance and your driving licence record. Towing entitlement depends on when you obtained your licence and any restrictions. A licence entitlement does not override a vehicle or trailer weight limit.

The official guidance linked below applies to Great Britain. If your licence was issued elsewhere or your circumstances are unusual, check the rules that apply to you directly.

Think about the load, not just the trailer

Measure the largest object and estimate the total weight of everything you intend to carry. Include packaging and anything travelling with the main item. Ask us to confirm the actual trailer’s dimensions, opening and payload for your booking.

Decide how you will lift, position and secure each item. An enclosed body does not replace suitable load restraints. Agree whether any securing equipment or protective materials are included.

Agree what to bring

Ask for the collection address, time, identification requirements, payment arrangements and deposit conditions when agreeing the hire. Confirm the electrical connector and any adapter required for your car.

The trailer must display the same number plate as the towing car. Arrange this in advance and ask whether any assistance is available; do not assume a plate is included.

Make the handover useful

Allow time to understand the actual trailer and its controls. Ask about coupling, connection, access and return arrangements. Check the equipment’s condition and record any existing damage together so both parties have the same starting point.

Follow manufacturer instructions and the official safety checklist before travelling. If anything is unclear or appears unsafe, resolve it before moving off.

Before you leave home

• Hire, collection location and return time confirmed.
• Vehicle, licence and load suitability checked.
• Number plate and electrical connection arranged.
• Required documents ready.
• Securing and protective equipment agreed.
• Time allowed for the handover.

Tell us about your first hire and include any questions in the message.