Trailer Pre-Tow Inspection Checklist

What this sheet is for

Run the same walk-around every time, in the same order, so nothing gets skipped because you were in a hurry.

Who it is for

Anyone towing — plant trailers, horseboxes, box trailers, caravans, boat trailers.

How to use it

1. Work in the printed order: coupling, running gear, lights, body and load.
2. Have someone check the lights while you operate them.
3. Check nose weight as well as total weight.
4. Sign and date it — this becomes your record that the check happened.

What is on the sheet

The layout is fixed at a size that fits both A4 and US Letter, so the A4 and Letter files are visually identical and print at full size on either. Rows are set at a height that an adult can actually write a date and a few words into with a pen — most printable tables are built in a word processor and never tested with one.

Questions

Do I legally need to do this?

Duties on towing weights, load security and trailer condition exist in most countries, and for commercial towing they are usually explicit. What applies depends on your licence, your vehicle and your jurisdiction — check the rules where you are. This sheet records the check; it does not define the duty.