How To Secure Your Trailer From Being Stolen (Anti-Theft Guide)

Trailer theft amounts for as much as $15 billion to $30 billion on a yearly basis. Reports of stolen trailers have only increased since 2019.

You can be a business that uses trailers for running your day-to-day operations or someone who uses them extensively for personal use. Trailer security is a concern you want to be absolutely assured about before you hit the road.

There are many little ways for you to ensure greater trailer security without spending or doing much. Here are some of the best anti-theft devices to help you secure a trailer to the ground all on your own.

Best Locks for Utility Trailer Protection

Many people assume that simply hitching a trailer to their vehicle is protection enough. Determined thieves can bypass simple locks or undo them with ease.

You need locks that are both inconspicuous and hard to undo. Simple anti-theft prevention methods can go a long way in protecting your cargo trailer in the most vulnerable of situations.

There are many kinds of locks to secure your trailer — hoop locks, pin locks and door locks. However, hitch locks and wheel locks are some of the more preferred options by trailer-owners when it comes to security.

We recommend that you go for a combination of both for added layers of protection.

Hitch Locks

Hitch locks secure the point where your vehicle is joined to your trailer. Good hitch locks are discreet and hard to break. It should be noted that once a hitch is detached from a vehicle, it can be attached to another.

This makes it even more important to choose a lock that is top-notch in quality and incredibly resistant in nature. Here are some of the best hitch locks for your trailer:

1.   Best Overall Hitch Lock

Master Lock 379ATPY Universal Trailer Hitch Lock is a universal hitch lock that can be used on a variety of vehicles. This coupler lock can be used on trailers, RVs, cars, and trucks. It has a smooth texture that covers the joint in an inconspicuous way that it cannot be spotted easily.

It is easy to install and fits just about any coupler. Its advanced mechanism is incredibly resistant to external efforts of prying and picking. The package comes with the lock and two keys in case one goes missing. The zinc-made lock is also . weather-resistant.

2.   Best Hitch Lock On A Budget

If you are looking for an inexpensive option that is just as good, CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock should be your pick. The lock looks like a barbell and fastens onto the hitch with a one-by-four lock. It cannot be easily spotted as it will be hidden behind the latch. Thieves will not be able to even see it there. 

It is both easy to install and operate as the convenient locking system can be locked and unlocked easily. There are two keys included in the package so you can hide the spare key in a discreet location.

3.   Best Hitch Locks With The Most Features

Tevlaphee Universal Trailer Ball Tow Hitch Lock is a heavy-duty lock that vows to give you a peace of mind when securing your trailer. You don’t have to worry about its efficiency as the lock is made of heavy-duty steel. It is so sturdy and strong that it can’t even be drilled into. The ratcheting design is also adjustable to your needs. The lock is easy to assemble and weather-resistant as well. What more, the brand offers excellent customer care service should you need any assistance or have any questions.  Our only con would be that it isn’t very conspicuous as it is designed with a bright yellow finish. 

Wheel Locks

Trailer security can also be accomplished with the use of wheel locks. Such locks have hook-like structures that are used to restrict the wheel of a trailer or vehicle from moving. With something stuck in the mechanism of the wheel, your trailer won’t be able to be set in motion even when the vehicle is operated.

1.   Best Overall Wheel Lock

Zento Deals 2 Pack Security Tire Clamp is a premium quality heavy-duty lock that offers strong and long-lasting protection. There are two clamps in the pack that are soft-coated with rubber to prevent damage and scratches to the wheels of your vehicles.

It can be used on all kinds of vehicles like RVs, SUVs, and even trucks and trailers. The clamp wraps itself around the wheel and can be locked and unlocked within seconds. The strong lock prevents any kind of attempts of prying and breaking. It even prevents attempts of towing.

2.   Best Wheel Lock On A Budget

When it comes to quality on a budget, the Tevlaphee Universal Wheel Lock is an excellent option. It comes with three keys so you can securely hide the other two. It is both durable and water resistant as its copper lock doesn’t rust.

Made from a thickened steel plate, it is incredibly hard to destroy. You can rest assured that your trailer will be safe from even towing once you secure it with this heavy-duty lock. While only one clamp is present, it is more than enough in terms of safety and is almost half the cost of other clamps.

3.  Best Wheel Lock With The Most Features

Trimax TCL75 Deluxe Universal Wheel Chock Lock is an option that is on the pricier side considering it has only one clamp in its pack. However, it more than makes up for it with the features it offers.

It is a strong and sturdy lock that is resistant to attempts of prying and adverse weather conditions alike. It is made of a heavy gauge rugged powder-coated steel. Its built-in chock prevents your trailer from rolling away. 

How To Install A Trailer Lock?

Installing a lock on your trailer is an easy enough task. All you need to do is follow the steps correctly so that you don’t leave any room for error and you are good to go.

Here is how you can install a hitch lock on your trailer:

1. Unhook your trailer from the vehicle in a place where you are safely parked.
2. Set the ball mount on the joint with a hitch lock.
3. Hold it in place and fasten the lock.
4. Secure the latch with a coupler lock.
5. Unlock the hitch lock as and when the trailer needs to be used.

Here are the steps to install a wheel lock on your trailer:

1. Open the wheel clamp and remove the keys.
2. Securely fit the wheel clamp on the wheel and align the lock cylinder with the appropriate hole.
3. Lock the clamp.
4. Make sure the lock is secure and cover it with the dust cap to avoid any damage.
5. Unlock the wheel lock as and when the trailer needs to be used.

Once you install the locks, you can have a peace of mind that your trailer is secure. However, we advise that you check on the condition of your trailer lock from time to time to ensure your lock is working well. 

Conclusion

When you are out on the road, the last thing you want to worry about is the safety of your belongings. Trailer theft is becoming increasingly common.

Any and all measures that you can take towards preventing it will help you ensure a higher level of safety. You can also rest assured about it and focus on more important tasks.

Ready to buy a lock for your trailer? Here is a full list of our recommendations:

Hitch locks

• Best Overall Hitch Lock: Master Lock 379ATPY Universal Trailer Hitch Lock
• Best Hitch Lock On A Budget: CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock
• Best Wheel Lock With The Most Features: Tevlaphee Universal Trailer Ball Tow Hitch Lock

Wheel locks

• Best Overall Wheel Lock: Zento Deals 2 Pack Security Tire Clamp
• Best Wheel Lock On A Budget: Tevlaphee Universal Wheel Lock
• Best Wheel Lock With The Most Features: Trimax TCL75 Deluxe Universal Wheel Chock Lock