Match your hitch ball to the trailer coupler (all of our trailers use a 2-5/16″ ball), make sure your tow vehicle is rated for the loaded weight (GVWR), keep 10–15% of the weight on the tongue, cross your safety chains, and confirm all lights work. That’s towing in a nutshell.
Towing isn’t hard, but a few basics keep you safe and legal. Here’s the short version we walk renters through.
1. Get the ball size right
The coupler is stamped with its size. Too small a ball can pop off; too big won’t latch. All of our trailers use a 2-5/16″ ball. We’ll tell you exactly what you need.
2. Know your weights (GVWR)
GVWR is the trailer’s loaded weight limit. Your tow vehicle has a rating too — check the door jamb or owner’s manual. The trailer plus cargo must stay under both.
Overloading is the fastest way to ruin brakes, bearings, and tires — and it’s a ticket and a safety risk. If you’re hauling something heavy, ask us and we’ll do the math with you.
3. Tongue weight matters
About 10–15% of the load should press down on the hitch. Too little and the trailer sways; too much and your steering goes light. Load heavy items just ahead of the axles.
4. Chains and lights
Cross your safety chains under the coupler (they catch it if it drops), and confirm brake lights, blinkers, and running lights all work before you pull out. Light trouble? Here’s the fix guide.
Sway almost always comes from too little tongue weight or too much speed — load it right and slow it down.
5. Take it easy
Leave more following distance, brake earlier, and take corners wide. A loaded trailer changes how your whole rig stops and turns.
Every A&L rental goes out road-ready, and we’ll make sure you’re set up right before you leave the lot.
New to towing?
Rent from a local team that sets you up right — not a faceless counter.
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