Best Trailer Locks in 2022
There’s no feeling quite like it: walking outside in the morning ready to go to work or hit the trails, and where your trailer once sat is now an empty parking spot. Tens of thousands of trailers are stolen in America each year, and very few make their way back to their rightful owners. This unfortunate headache is avoidable with a good trailer lock.
These inexpensive devices ensure that your precious cargo will remain in place, regardless of where you park it. There are many ways to lock your trailer, but knowing the best features in trailer locks can come in handy. We’ve gathered a few of the most popular trailer locks to find the best trailer lock that’s fit for your trailer.
The Best Trailer Lock
1Master Lock Universal Size Coupler Trailer Lock
Fun fact: Master Lock’s founders Harry Soref, P.E. Yolles, and Sam Stahl are the inventors and patent holders for the now-ubiquitous padlock. For the last 100 years, this company has led the innovation curve in security devices, and their Universal Coupler Trailer Lock makes the top of our list for that very reason.
Designed to fit a wide variety of receiver hitches, Master Lock Universal Size Coupler Trailer Lock ensures that no one can attach their own hitch to your trailer. This universal lock features a bright red powder coat. This color ensures that you can easily find it in your vehicle and deter thieves from afar. If you are an active cyclist, make sure to also check out these reliable bike locks for maximum safety.
Universal coupler lock fits virtually all trailers
Bright red finish is easy to see
Powder coating finish prevents rust
No two locks keyed the same way
Advanced locking mechanism resists picking
- BrandMaster Lock
- Model389DAT
- Weight1.5 pounds
2AMPLOCK Coupler RV Trailer Lock
AMPLOCK is another highly trusted brand in the security business, and their RV/Trailer Coupler Lock offers a unique take on your trailer’s security. This black, powder-coated, U-shaped coupler attaches to your trailer’s receiver hitch and pins the ball to the receiver with the turn of a key. This mechanism is impossible to reverse without a key, and the shield of steel surrounding the ball would be incredibly hard to cut or bend.
To ensure that the locking system is safe in all weather environments, AMPLOCK finished the alloys to ensure rust won’t accumulate. No matter how cold or wet it is outside, the push-to-lock system is so simple that you can do so with gloves on.
Universal coupler lock fits virtually all trailers
Powder coating finish prevents rust
Advanced locking mechanism resists picking
Easy to use proprietary Push-to-Lock system
- BrandAMPLOCK
- Model8 87613 30016 7
- Weight12 pounds
3Reese Towpower Tow ‘N Store Trailer Lock Kit
Reese Towpower Tow ‘N Store Lock Kit comes with everything you need to secure and store your trailer. Included in the kit is a brass coupler lock, which allows the Coupler to be locked to the vehicle while in tow. Additionally, a dual bent-pin receiver fits both 5/8 and ½-inch receivers for a wide variety of applications.
The bright yellow finish of this lock will ensure that you can see it from afar, whether you’re looking for it in the garage or a thief is eyeballing your trailer.
Bright yellow finish dissuades thieves
Multiple hitch locks included
Lightweight
Easy to install
Extra key included
- BrandReese
- Model7014700
- Weight2.8 pounds
4Reese Towpower Heavy Duty Coupler Trailer Lock
This lock is the heavy-duty version of the REESE Towpower Coupler Lock. If you have a big trailer with costly equipment inside, or you want to be extra sure, this is the trailer lock for you. Built with heavy-duty steel, someone would have to be incredibly motivated and have a lot of time on their hands to get through this design.
Grey in color, the Reese Towpower Heavy Duty Coupler Trailer Lock is easy to spot from a distance, so you won’t have to worry about people even approaching your trailer. A ratcheting locking system creates tension on the bridge over the ball head to ensure there’s no extra play in this gadget.
Universal coupler lock fits virtually all trailers
Powder coating finish prevents rust
Advanced locking mechanism resists picking
Powder coating finish prevents rust
Bright grey finish dissuades thieves
- BrandReese
- Model7088300
- Weight3.84 pounds
5CURT Black Trailer Lock
Much like a hitch pin and clip, a hitch lock threads through the fastener hole on either side of the receiver tube. This design allows the lock to hold the hitch-mounted accessory in place. This CURT Black Trailer Hitch Lock will enable you to lock your ball mount trailer to your hitch, and you can keep it on even when you are on the go. This locking mechanism is safe, secure, and incredibly small, so it stores easily when not in use.
Finished in a matte black, this 5/8-inch pin fits perfectly in a 2-inch receiver but won’t work in double-walled receiver tubes. This key-activated device is sealed and waterproof to ensure you have years of security — just don’t lose the key! If you are a motorcyclist, don’t forget to protect your favorite ride with one of these top motorcycle locks, as well.
Easy-to-use barbell style lock
Waterproof for longevity
Extra key included
Matte black finish
- BrandCURT
- Model23518
- Weight10.9 ounces
6CZC AUTO Black Trailer Hitch Coupler Lock
The CZC AUTO Black Trailer Hitch Coupler Lock is the smallest option on our list but still offers great security for your trailer. This compact, black-finished key lock creates a barrier between your trailer and thieves by ensuring that the pinhole behind the receiver stays closed, which won’t allow anyone to release the trailer from the hitch. Our buying guide on best-selling combination locks features some more useful products like this one, so be sure to check it out.
Opening the lock is as simple as inserting the key and backing out the threaded lockbolt through the receiver. This tiny locking device is small enough to fit in your pocket but strong enough to save the contents of your entire trailer.
¼ inch locking pin
Extra key included
Matte black finish
Lightweight and portable
- BrandCZC AUTO
- Weight5.6 ounces
7InSite Solutions Equipment Lock BRHL Steel Ball And Ring Hitch Lock
Maximum security comes at a cost, but InSite Solutions Equipment Lock BRHL Steel Ball And Ring Hitch Lock will put your mind at ease. This 3/8-inch steel security device is a universal design so it fits virtually all trailer hitches, whether you have a ball or ring style receiver.
With a bright red finish and a design that nearly envelops the receiver hitch, it will be clear to thieves that this trailer is off-limits. To keep your belongings safe while traveling, use any of these amazing luggage locks from our list.
Universal coupler lock fits virtually all trailers
Bright red finish is easy to see
Constructed of 3/8-inch steel
Ball and ring style adapters
Barrel key lock for better protection
- BrandInSite Solutions
- ModelB005CIGVGM
- Weight1 pound
8Master Lock 2847DA Coupler Latch Trailer Lock
Master Lock is a longstanding and trusted name in the security game. While the first trailer lock we featured may have been a robust option, we found a pared-down version that will get the job done… as long as you keep the trailer connected to your tow vehicle.
Built with longevity in mind, this Master Lock 2847DA Adjustable Coupler Latch Trailer Lock has a waterproof endcap to ensure moisture stays out and that the lock keeps functioning for years to come. For absolute peace of mind, make sure to have one of these keyless door locks for your home.
Waterproof for longevity
Easiest to use of all options
Extra key included
Six locking positions provide flexibility
- BrandMaster Lock
- Model2847DAT
- Weight4 ounces
9Master Lock 377KA Trailer Hitch Lock
The only all-Chromoly lock on our list, the Master Lock 377KA Trailer Hitch Lock is universally designed for all trailer hitch variations. The advanced locking mechanism is resistant to picking. It’s also made with zinc to ensure rust doesn’t creep into the locking device’s inner workings.
This simple trailer lock’s design fills the receiver hitch and locks the device via a steel pin, ensuring that there’s no chance for removal. For more reliable safety products, check out our buying guide on the best smart locks everyone is raving about.
Universal coupler lock fits virtually all trailers
Chrome finish prevents rust
Advanced locking mechanism resists picking
Lock mechanism made of zinc to resist rust
- BrandMaster Lock
- Model377KA
- Weight2.2 pounds
10Master Lock 379ATPY Universal Trailer Hitch Lock
Constructed from zinc, this Master Lock Universal Trailer Hitch Lock is a simple and effective way to protect your valuable cargo. While it’s only the size of a softball, this locking system offers big protection for your trailer by filling and covering the receiver tongue. This feature ensures that there is no way to hook up and tow off your tow-behind and its precious cargo. The Master Lock Universal Trailer Hitch Lock’s internal workings are also made from zinc, which will ensure that this device will work for years.
Universal coupler lock fits virtually all trailers
Advanced locking mechanism resists picking
Lock mechanism made of zinc to resist rust
Extra key included
- BrandMaster Lock
- Model379ATPY
- Weight2 pounds
Trailer Lock Buying Guide & FAQ
Features to Look for in Trailer Locks
Design – Trailer locks come in many different shapes and sizes. Some trailers come with a locking mechanism built into the hitch, but that is a fairly new development. For true security, most trailers will need a secondary device to deter thieves.
To determine what kind of lock you need, you'll have to be clear on when and where you'll need a lock. Some locks on this list are designed to be placed on the trailer when parked and disconnected from the vehicle. Other designs secure your trailer to your vehicle, first and foremost. This design is only useful in the situation where your trailer connects to your tow vehicle. Make sure you know how you plan to use your lock before you go dropping your money on a lock.
Durability – While the exterior of a lock can get banged up, you want to be reassured by the durability of its inner workings. Many of the locks on our list are made from zinc, which is very weather resistant and should last for several years. The parts that make up the barrel (where your key enters) have many small, intricate pieces that can be susceptible to bad weather. Check the materials of your lock to insure that it will last you through more than one rainy or snowy season.
Size – Size can really matter in the world of locks. The thicker the steel or alloy that makes up the device, the harder it should be to cut through. Many thieves opt to cut through a lock instead of trying to pick it since it's faster and requires less skill. A lock with 3/8-inch steel surrounding it will be much more difficult to cut than one that is fully exposed.
Material – Most of the locks on this list feature thick steel with a powder coating on the exterior. Some locks may feature a Chromoly finish, as well. All of these material choices are suitable in terms of quality construction, so how do you choose? We would suggest choosing one that is both strong enough to provide security yet not so burly you can't easily move it around.
Hitch Class – Hitch classifications are delineated based on the vehicle's tow capacity and the tongue weight of the trailer. Here's a basic outline of how the classes work:
- Class 1 - Vehicle: Cars and Crossovers; Receiver size: 1-1/4-inch; GTW Capacity (lbs.): Up to 2,000; TW Capacity (lbs.) Up to 200
- Class 2 - Vehicle: Cars, crossovers and minivans; Receiver size: 1-1/4-inch; GTW Capacity (lbs.): Up to 3,500; TW Capacity (lbs.) Up to 350
- Class 3 - Vehicle: Trucks and SUVs; Receiver size: 2-inch; GTW Capacity (lbs.): Up to 8,000; TW Capacity (lbs.) Up to 800
- Class 4 - Vehicle: Trucks and SUVs; Receiver size: 2-inch; GTW Capacity (lbs.): Up to 10,000 TW Capacity (lbs.) Up to 1,000
- Class 5 Xtra Duty - Vehicle: Trucks and SUVs; Receiver size: 2-inch; GTW Capacity (lbs.): 16,000 - 17,000; TW Capacity (lbs.) Up to 2,400 to 2,550
- Class 5 Commercial - Vehicle: Dually and Chassis cab trucks; Receiver size: 2-1/2-inch; GTW Capacity (lbs.): 18,000 to 20,000; TW Capacity (lbs.) Up to 2,700
Trailer Lock FAQ
Q: What is a trailer lock?
A: Trailer locks come in many forms. Essentially, a trailer lock is a device that ensures that your trailer is immobile as it sits disconnected from your tow vehicle, or it keeps someone from removing it from your vehicle while parked. These devices, like all locks, come in many shapes and sizes.
Q: How does a trailer lock work?
A: Some trailer locks place a ball hitch inside the receiver and lock it in place. This design ensures that the only way you can steal the trailer is blocked because there will be no way to connect a tow vehicle without unlocking the trailer lock. Other locks simply hold the hinge that would connect the receiver on your trailer to the ball hitch, which also helps keep your trailer connected to your vehicle.
Q: How do I keep my trailer from being stolen?
A: The best way to deter thieves from stealing your trailer is to lock it to your vehicle, or place a lock on the receiver hitch while it sits disconnected. It is also helpful to set the trailer in a well-lit, securely monitored area or in a secure private location.
Q: What are the benefits of a trailer lock?
A: One of the greatest benefits of a good trailer lock is deterring thieves from even approaching your trailer. Many of the locks on this list are finished with a bright red or yellow to clearly show people that you are not interested in them tampering with your stuff. If they are so bold as to inspect the lock, they will likely move on to something else knowing that you've gone through the trouble to protect your property.
Sources:
- Stolen Trailer Database – Dangerous Trailers