Trailer Safety Chains: How to Hook Them Up Correctly
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Safety chains are your backup if the coupler comes off the ball. They only work if they're rated correctly and hooked up the right way.
How to hook them up
- Cross the chains under the coupler, one over the other, in an X. The crossed chains form a cradle that catches the tongue and keeps it off the road if the coupler separates.
- Attach them to the hitch's safety chain loops — not the ball mount, bumper or anything that could come loose along with the trailer.
- Leave just enough slack to turn fully without the chains binding. Too much slack lets the trailer run further before the chains catch it.
- Keep them off the ground. Twist the chains to shorten them if needed, rather than letting them drag.
- Close the hooks so they can't bounce off. Spring-latch or clevis-style hooks are more secure than open S-hooks.
How strong they need to be
Each safety chain or cable should be rated to meet or exceed your gross trailer weight. Chains come in different lengths and strength grades — CURT's range, for example, runs from 2,000 lb to 24,000 lb minimum break force. Browse safety chains.
What provinces say
| Province | Secondary connection rule |
|---|---|
| Ontario | If safety chains are used, they must be crossed under the tongue |
| Quebec | The safety device (chain or cable) must be strong enough to keep the trailer attached if the hitch fails |
| Manitoba | Attach the trailer two ways — the hitch, plus safety chains or cables strong enough for the trailer and load |
| Saskatchewan | Hitches other than a fifth wheel need a secondary coupling device |
| Alberta | The hitch should be fitted with approved safety chains or cables |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | An auxiliary chain or metal cable equal in strength to the main coupling |
Summarized from the official provincial sources linked in our trailer brake requirements guide, checked September 2026. Not legal advice — confirm with your province.
Braked trailers: add a breakaway system
Chains keep a separated trailer attached, but they don't stop it. On trailers with electric brakes, a breakaway switch applies the trailer brakes if it separates — and Saskatchewan's regulations require automatic breakaway braking on trailers that need brakes. See breakaway systems.
Hook-up guidance: CURT — Safety chains, checked September 2026.