What Equipment Is Required to Be on a Trailer

GGB Products
Mar 5
4 min read

Updated: Jun 12

Towing a trailer isn’t as simple as hitching up and hitting the road. Safety, compliance, and stability depend on having the right equipment. Every trailer—whether it’s hauling heavy machinery or weekend toys—needs specific components to operate legally and securely.

Neglecting key safety features isn’t just dangerous; it can also lead to fines, accidents, or equipment failure at the worst possible moment. At Drop Deck Direct, we take towing seriously, and this guide will ensure you’re prepared with what equipment is required to be on a trailer.

Essential Trailer Equipment for Safe & Legal Towing

1. Trailer Hitch & Coupling System

Every trailer needs a secure connection to the tow vehicle. The trailer hitch is the backbone of your towing system, ensuring stability and control. The main components include:

Trailer Hitch – A structural component that bolts to the towing vehicle, providing a mounting point for the trailer.
Ball Mount – Inserts into the hitch receiver and holds the trailer ball.
Trailer Ball – The pivot point for the trailer coupler, allowing smooth movement.
Hitch Pin or Lock – Secures the ball mount in place.
Trailer Coupler – Connects to the trailer ball and locks it in place for a firm connection.
Safety Chains – Act as a fail-safe if the primary connection fails, keeping the trailer tethered to the tow vehicle.

Pro Tip: Always cross your safety chains under the trailer tongue! This prevents the tongue from hitting the ground if it disconnects.

2 5/16" coupler, safety chains, and electrical break away switch on the front of a trailer — 2 5/16" coupler, safety chains, and electrical break away switch.

2. Lighting & Electrical System

Proper trailer lighting isn’t optional—it’s legally required in all 50 states. Trailers block the tow vehicle’s lights, making a dedicated lighting system critical for visibility and safety. Your trailer must include:

Brake Lights & Taillights – Synchronize with the towing vehicle’s brake system.
Turn Signals – Either integrated with brake lights or separate amber-colored lights.
Reflectors – Red reflectors on the rear, amber reflectors on the sides.
License Plate Light – Required in states that mandate trailer registration.
Trailer Wiring Harness – A plug that connects your trailer’s lights to the towing vehicle.

Not sure what type of connector you need? A 4-way flat plug is common for small trailers, while 7-way round plugs are standard for trailers with brakes.

3. Braking System: Do You Need Trailer Brakes?

If your trailer is over 3,000 lbs, most states require it to have an independent braking system. But even if it’s not legally required, brakes dramatically improve control, reduce stopping distance, and prevent dangerous sway.

There are two primary types of trailer brakes:

Electric Brakes – Require a brake controller inside the tow vehicle to regulate braking force.
Surge Brakes – Hydraulic-operated and activate when the trailer pushes against the hitch.

Additionally, trailers with brakes must have a breakaway system—a small battery-operated device that automatically applies the brakes if the trailer disconnects from the tow vehicle.

4. Tires & Wheel Safety

Trailer tires are not the same as regular vehicle tires. They must handle heavy loads, long idle periods, and high-speed towing. Look for tires labeled ST (Special Trailer), which have stiffer sidewalls for better stability.

Other important tire safety factors:

Tire Load Rating – Check your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to ensure proper tire capacity.
Matching Tires – Uneven tire wear causes instability.
Spare Tire & Mount – A flat tire on a remote job site without a spare? No thanks!

Spare tire and mount.

5. Load Securement: Don’t Let Cargo Shift

Loose cargo is dangerous. Sudden shifts can cause loss of control, damage equipment, or result in serious fines if debris falls onto the road. Secure your load with:

Ratchet Straps – Ideal for general cargo.
Chains & Binders – Required for heavy equipment.
Tarps & Nets – Essential for loose materials like gravel or sand.
Wheel Straps & Chocks – Necessary for transporting vehicles.

Most trailers come with built-in tie-down points like chain slots or D-rings. If your trailer lacks enough anchor points, consider installing E-track systems for flexible cargo management.

Low profile chain slots for strapping.

State Laws & Compliance: Know Before You Tow

Each state has its own towing laws. Some states mandate safety chains, others require brakes at 3,000 lbs, while places like Texas set the limit at 4,500 lbs. The key takeaway? Research your state’s specific requirements before hitting the road—especially if you plan to cross state lines.

Federally Required Trailer Equipment

The U.S. Department of Transportation enforces federal safety regulations for commercial trailers, including:

Functioning taillights
License plate visibility
Reflectors for increased visibility
Brake systems for heavier trailers

For non-commercial trailers, state laws vary significantly. If you’re unsure, check with your local Department of Transportation (DOT) or DMV.

The Bottom Line: Safe Towing Starts with the Right Equipment

Towing a trailer isn’t just about power—it’s about control, compliance, and safety. Ensuring your trailer is properly equipped isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a responsibility.

At Drop Deck Direct, we specialize in drop deck trailers designed for safety and efficiency.