Towing requirements
Know what your vehicle needs before you rent. Safety starts with the right setup.
Your license and responsibility
A valid driver's license is required. You're responsible for safe towing.
Valid driver's license required
You must carry a current, valid driver's license when picking up and operating any trailer.
Safe towing practices
You're responsible for following safe towing practices at all times. This means knowing your vehicle's limits and respecting the road.
Your truck or car must be ready
Your vehicle needs to handle the trailer and load safely. Check your owner's manual for towing capacity before booking.
Tow rating
Your vehicle must be rated to tow the trailer and load combined. Never exceed your vehicle's maximum towing capacity.
Hitch receiver
A proper hitch receiver must be installed and in good condition. Class II or higher is standard for most trailers.
Hitch ball
Most of our trailers require a 2 5/16" ball hitch. Check your receiver before arrival to avoid delays.
Light connector
Your vehicle must have a working trailer light connector. Trailer lights must function before you leave our lot.
Know your brake controller needs
Larger trailers and heavier loads may require a brake controller to stop safely.
Brake controller
Brake controller
When it's required
Check your trailer's GVWR and local Nevada regulations. Trailers over 10,000 pounds typically need one.
Installation
Installation
Have it installed right
A professional installation ensures your brake controller works properly and keeps you safe on the road.
Testing
Testing
Test before you go
Test your brake controller in a safe area before hitting the highway. Smooth braking matters.
Adjustment
Adjustment
Dial in the right setting
Adjust your brake controller based on load weight. Too light and brakes lag. Too heavy and you'll jerk.
Secure your load and check your lights
A safe tow starts before you leave the lot. Secure cargo, working lights, and safety chains are non-negotiable.
Secure your load
Use straps, chains, or tie-downs rated for your cargo weight. Loose cargo shifts, causes sway, and creates danger.
Working lights
Brake lights, turn signals, and running lights must function. Test them in daylight before you leave our lot.
Safety chains
Cross your safety chains under the coupler. They're your backup if the hitch fails. Don't skip this.
Trailer jack
Raise your trailer jack fully before driving. A lowered jack drags, damages the trailer, and creates a hazard.
Don't exceed your limits
You're responsible for staying within weight ratings.
Your vehicle's towing capacity
Check your owner's manual for max towing weight. Don't load beyond it.
Trailer's GVWR rating
Every trailer has a gross vehicle weight rating. Know it and respect it.
Combined weight matters
Add your vehicle's towing capacity and trailer GVWR. Stay under both numbers.
Overloading consequences
Overloading causes brake failure, tire blowouts, and loss of control. The risk isn't worth it.
Balance your load for stable towing
Tongue weight and even distribution prevent sway and keep your trailer tracking straight behind you.
Walk around before you go
Five minutes of checking now saves you from trouble on the road.
Lights and signals
Turn on your headlights and test brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. Have someone watch the back.
Tires, coupler, and straps
Look for flat spots, cracks, or damage on tires. Inspect the coupler for wear. Make sure straps are tight.
Slow down in strong wind
Crosswinds push trailers sideways. Reduce speed and grip the wheel. Mountain passes are especially risky.
Wet roads demand slower speeds
Braking distance increases on wet pavement. Give yourself more room and ease off the throttle.
Winter towing is serious business
Snow and ice make trailers slide. Chains may be required. If you're unsure, don't go.
Questions about your setup?
Call us at 775-487-5144 or email info@otgtrailerrentals.com. We'll get you sorted.
