How To Lock A Gooseneck Trailer?
You can lock your gooseneck trailer by removing the coupler and inserting a lock into the receiving tube. Manufacturers (like AMPLock) offer locks gooseneck trailers can rely on, which use puck lock mechanisms to secure the coupler and prevent unauthorized access.
Secure Your Gooseneck Trailer in 5 Steps
1. Use a Gooseneck Coupler Lock
Securing your trailer with a gooseneck coupler lock is one of the smartest theft-prevention strategies, especially when you opt for a high-quality, custom-fit model like AMPLock. Gooseneck locks offer full coverage of the receiving tube and physically block thieves from coupling to your hitch.
2. Add a Safety Chain lock
Safety chain locks provide an extra layer of protection for your gooseneck trailer. They work by securing the chains, making it difficult for thieves to tow your trailer away. We recommend using locks made from strong materials like hardened steel.
Note: Use transport-grade chains (e.g., 3/8″ or 5/16″ high-strength grade) rated at least equal to your trailer’s GVWR.
- Locate the rear-most under-bed puck mounts on each side of your truck bed.
- Drop in the safety chain anchor and rotate 90° to lock it in place.
- Secure it with the provided 10 mm pin and 5 mm lynch pin, ensuring they're fully seated
- Hook each chain to its respective anchor point under the truck bed.
- Leave just enough slack for full turning, no excess slack that allows dragging or tangled chains
- After hooking the chains, thread a closed-shackle or puck-style lock through the end links or U‑bolt connection to prevent removal.
- Simulate turning and backing up: the chains should remain taut but not tug on the truck or trailer components. The lock should feel firm, no wiggle, ensuring thieves can’t slip it off.
3. Use a Wheel Lock or Boot
Wheel locks or boots are effective deterrents against trailer theft. Select a model that fits your trailer’s wheel size and tire width. Look for a lock with hardened steel construction, covered lug nut protection and a weather-resistant lock core.
- Open the wheel lock using the key or release lever
- Slide the arms over and around the tire so that the lock clamps both the front and back of the wheel (Ensure one arm passes through the rim or sits tightly against the tire tread)
- Close the lock until it feels snug around the wheel
- Engage the locking mechanism by turning the key or pushing the lock bar into place
- Tug gently to confirm it’s secure, there should be no movement
4. Lower The Trailer Below Hitching Height
A simple yet effective way to secure your gooseneck trailer is by cranking it low beneath standard hitch level. This makes it challenging for thieves to quickly attach and tow away your trailer.
Park the trailer on level ground: Ensure the trailer is on a firm, flat surface, gravel, pavement, or concrete is ideal. Avoid soft or uneven terrain where the jack might sink or shift.
Chock the wheels: Before adjusting the height, place wheel chocks behind and in front of at least one tire on each side. This prevents the trailer from rolling as you lower it.
5. Double-Check All Fasteners And Connections
Before leaving your trailer, always inspect these critical points of your trailer locks:
- Coupler: Ensure it's properly locked and secured
- Hitch coupler: Verify that your hitch coupler is tightly locked and shows no signs of tampering
- Hitch pin: Check they're in place and functioning correctly
- Lug nuts: Verify they're tight and in good condition
- Chain locks: Confirm they're properly attached and locked
- Latch: Make sure the latch is tight and has not been tampered with
Look for signs of wear or tampering. If you notice anything unusual, repair or replace the affected parts immediately. Taking the time to perform these checks will help keep your gooseneck trailer secure and give you peace of mind.
Enhance Overall Protection of Your Gooseneck Trailer
Use GPS Tracking And Recovery Devices
Installing a GPS tracker gives you real-time location access in case your trailer is stolen. Many modern trackers are hidden, battery-powered, and send alerts if the trailer moves unexpectedly. Some can even be geofenced, triggering notifications when the trailer exits a defined area. In the unfortunate event of theft, GPS recovery significantly improves the chances of retrieving your trailer quickly and in one piece.
Add Visible Deterrents Like Custom Paint
Thieves look for easy, anonymous targets. A trailer that stands out is harder to resell and easier to identify. Use unique decals, bold paint colors, or even your business logo to make your trailer immediately recognizable. This not only serves as a theft deterrent but also doubles as brand visibility if you use your trailer for business.
Keep Locking Lug Nuts On Your Wheels
Locking lug nuts replace one of the regular lug nuts on each wheel with a keyed version that can’t be removed with standard tools. This prevents thieves from stealing your wheels or easily replacing a locked one to tow the trailer away. It’s a small, inexpensive upgrade that adds another layer of frustration for would-be thieves.
Park Strategically And Use Surveillance
Where and how you park your trailer matters. Whenever possible:
- Park in well-lit, secure areas
- Angle the trailer nose-in against a wall or object to block hitch access
- Use motion-activated cameras or lights around your parking area
Visible surveillance equipment alone can discourage theft attempts, and recorded footage can help with recovery or insurance claims.
Maintain And Inspect All Locks Regularly
Even the strongest lock won’t help if it’s rusted shut or no longer latching properly. Make it a habit to clean and lubricate your locks every few months, inspect for tampering or wear and replace weathered rubber seals or worn keys
Shop Your Gooseneck Trailer Now at AMPLock!
Worried about the safety of your gooseneck trailer? We've got you covered. At AMPLock, we offer top-notch security solutions designed to keep your trailer safe and sound.
Our high-grade locks, made from North American ductile iron and stainless steel, provide unbeatable protection against theft. Don't risk it, secure your investment today with our custom-fit locks and enjoy peace of mind with our 5-year warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Lock A Gooseneck Trailer
What Types Of Locks Work Best For Gooseneck Trailers?
We recommend using precision-fit locks that secure directly inside the gooseneck coupler’s receiving tube. AMPLock offers custom-designed models that match the exact shape of your coupler for a snug, tamper-resistant fit, no rattling, no gaps. Their gooseneck locks are made from high-quality cast iron and stainless steel, built to resist cutting, drilling, and prying. For layered protection, pair your AMPLock with compatible wheel locks, tire boots, and locking lug nuts. You can also use hardened steel cables or safety chain locks to secure additional points on your trailer. With AMPLock, every lock is built for maximum resistance and peace of mind.
How Often Should I Perform A Security Check On My Trailer?
You should inspect your trailer's security features weekly or monthly. We suggest checking that all locks are intact, jacks are secure, and identifying marks remain visible. Don't forget to remove or lock the jack handle to prevent unauthorized hitching. Adding bright paint, decals, or unique identifiers can help deter theft. Make sure to thoroughly examine couplers, lug nuts, and wheel locks during each check. If you know your trailer is parked for a while, check the front section carefully.
Can I Combine Multiple Lock Types?
You can definitely layer various security measures for better protection. We advise using gooseneck locks alongside wheel locks, coupler locks, and steel cables. Electric jacks with keyed operation provide an additional safeguard. While GPS trackers help locate stolen trailers, they don't prevent theft. Consider using left-hand threaded nuts and bolts as extra deterrents. Combining strong, convenient locks offers the best defense against potential thieves. Some options originally used for 5th wheel trailers also work with gooseneck systems.
