Trailer hitch and safety

Connecting a trailer requires precision and thorough safety checks. Incorrect coupling can cause the trailer to detach while driving, with disastrous consequences.

Connection procedure step by step

Safety chain

• Safety chain or wire should always be connected.
• It should be short enough to prevent the hitch from hitting the ground if the coupling fails.
• The chain should be long enough to allow normal swinging.
• It is crossed under the kite to form a kind of manger that catches the kit.

Control of lights and brakes

• Check that all tail lights, brake lights and turn signals on the trailer are working.
• Test the trailer brakes at low speeds.
• Check that the license plate is visible and clean.

Weights and limits

• With a category B driving licence, you can tow a trailer with a total weight of up to 750 kg without any additional requirements.
• The total weight of the car and trailer can be up to 3500 kg with class B.
• For heavier trailers, driver’s license category BE or code 96 is required.

Read more about weight limits and rules in driving with a trailer .

Load securing on trailer

• The load must be securely secured with straps or nets.
• Heavy loads are placed low and in front of the axle for best stability.
• The load must not protrude more than 1 meter behind the trailer without marking.
• For protrusions over 1 metre, red marking or lights are required.

Disconnection procedure

• Apply the parking brake on the trailer.
• Lower the jockey wheel.
• Disconnect power and safety chain.
• Lift the coupling off the ball.

Further reading

• Trailer Driving
• Category B driving licence – rules
• Driving Licence Categories Overview
• Ferry rules and boarding