Register it. Check it. Protect it.
Whether you own a trailer or you're buying one second-hand, there are practical steps you can take to reduce theft risk and check a trailer's identity before you part with your money.
Register your trailer
Owners can register their trailer with The Equipment Register (TER). Registering makes it easier for the police to identify your trailer and return it to you if it's ever stolen and recovered.
Check a trailer before you buy
Buyers can check a trailer's details against TER before purchasing, to see whether it has been reported as stolen or otherwise flagged on the TER database.
Practical steps to reduce theft risk.
A few simple measures make your trailer a harder target and help you prove ownership if it's ever stolen.
Hitch locks
A solid hitch lock stops a thief coupling your trailer to a tow vehicle and driving it away.
Wheel clamps
A visible clamp acts as a deterrent and makes the trailer difficult to move when parked.
Secure storage
Keep trailers behind locked gates or in a locked building, and out of view from the road where possible.
Trackers and alarms
A GPS tracker or alarm can alert you to movement or tampering and help recover a stolen trailer.
Security marking
Mark your trailer with a unique ID using etching, engraving or a security marking kit.
Record VIN / chassis / serial numbers
Keep a written record of the VIN, chassis and serial numbers somewhere safe and separate from the trailer.
Photographs and proof of ownership
Take clear photographs and keep receipts, invoices or other proof of ownership in case you ever need them.
A practical checklist before you buy.
Take a few minutes to check a trailer's identity and paperwork before agreeing to buy. If anything doesn't add up, walk away.
- Check the physical identification plate on the trailer
- Check the VIN, chassis or serial number
- Make sure the numbers match the paperwork
- Ask the seller for proof of ownership
- Check the trailer with The Equipment Register (TER)
- Walk away if anything doesn't match or seems suspicious
Report it to the police, then to TER.
If your trailer is stolen, report the theft to the police first and get a crime reference number. Keep a note of it, along with the trailer's VIN, chassis or serial number and any photographs.
Then report the theft to the relevant registration and security service. Reporting your stolen trailer to The Equipment Register is free and helps police, ports and auction houses identify it if it resurfaces.
Disclaimer: UK Trailer Market does not carry out TER checks, register trailers on behalf of owners, or guarantee the ownership or history of any trailer listed on the marketplace. Buyers should carry out their own checks before purchasing.
Check before you buy. Browse with confidence.
Run a TER check on a trailer you're considering, or browse trailers listed on UK Trailer Market.