I learned about wheel chocks the hard way. A neighbor’s travel trailer rolled three feet down his sloped driveway at 3 a.m., crushing a fence and nearly hitting a car. The parking brake had held for two years – until it didn’t. That story is why I take chocks seriously, and it’s the reason I put this guide together.
The best wheel chocks for trailers are not all built the same. Some are solid rubber wedges, some are steel X-shaped stabilizers, and a few are UV-stabilized plastic that lives in your RV compartment year-round. After comparing eight of the most popular options across Amazon reviews, forum threads, and hands-on placement tests, I’ve sorted out which ones actually hold, which ones fail under sun or weight, and which ones are worth your money.
Whether you own a travel trailer, a fifth wheel, a boat trailer, or just need a reliable stop for your truck, this guide covers what to buy, how to size it, and how to use it so you never wake up to a rollaway.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Wheel Chocks for Trailers in September
Best Wheel Chocks for Trailers in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 MaxxHaul Solid Rubber 2-Pack |
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Check Latest Price |
 BAL X-Chock Wheel Stabilizer |
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 MaxxHaul Large Rubber 2-Pack |
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 Camco RV Wheel Chock 2-Pack |
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 AFA Tooling 4-Pack |
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 SECURITYMAN Heavy Duty 2-Pack |
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 EPOARTIST X-Chock 2-Pack |
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 PR1ME Wheel Chock 2-Pack |
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Check Latest Price |
What Is a Wheel Chock and Why You Need One
A wheel chock is a wedge-shaped block placed snug against a tire to keep a vehicle from rolling. Think of it as a backup for your parking brake, not a replacement. Parking brakes on trailers can fail when cables stretch, when springs weaken, when drums rust, or when hydraulic actuators release on a slope.
I think of a chock as the last line of defense. If the parking brake fails for any reason, the chock is what stops the trailer. On a level lot, you might get away with a parking brake alone. On any slope, near a boat ramp, or when unhitching, a chock is required.
Chocks work by transferring the rolling force of a tire into the ground. The wedge shape locks the tire in place using the contact between the rubber tread on the chock bottom and the ground, plus the curved face pressing against the tire. For a chock to work properly, it needs to be roughly one-quarter the diameter of your tire. We’ll cover that math in the sizing section below.
Types of Wheel Chocks for Trailers
There are five main types you’ll see on the market. Each has its strengths.
Solid rubber wheel chocks are the gold standard for trailers. They resist oil, UV, cold, and crushing. They are heavy, which makes them stable on the ground, and they don’t crack like plastic under sun exposure. The MaxxHaul and Camco rubber chocks fall into this category.
Plastic wheel chocks are lighter and cheaper. Good ones use UV-stabilized polypropylene or polyethylene with an EVA or rubber base pad. Budget plastic chocks can shatter in winter or crack under sun exposure, so look for UV-resistant ratings.
X-Chocks (tire-locking chocks) are a different animal entirely. The BAL and EPOARTIST models use a ratcheting steel cross to wedge between two tandem tires. These are stabilizers, not primary chocks. They keep your trailer from rocking when you walk inside, but they don’t replace the rubber chocks at the front and back of the wheel.
Folding wheel chocks collapse for storage, which full-time RVers love. They are usually plastic or composite with a hinge.
Metal wheel chocks (cast aluminum or steel) are mostly used in commercial settings, aircraft, and heavy equipment. They’re overkill for most RV owners but appear in OSHA-required fleets.
How to Size a Wheel Chock by Tire Diameter
The general rule is that a chock should reach about one-quarter of your tire’s diameter when seated against the tire. Smaller than that, and the tire can roll up and over the chock. Use this quick reference:
| Tire Diameter | Minimum Chock Height | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| 13 to 15 inch | 3 to 4 inch | Small utility trailers, motorcycle trailers |
| 16 to 20 inch | 4 to 5 inch | Light travel trailers, pop-up campers |
| 22 to 26 inch | 5 to 7 inch | Most travel trailers, RVs, boat trailers |
| 28 to 33 inch | 7 to 9 inch | Heavy-duty trucks, Class A motorhomes |
| 35 inch and up | 9 inch or larger | Commercial trucks, off-road trailers, equipment |
If you’re not sure, go one size up. A taller chock will hold a smaller tire. A too-short chock on a tall tire is a rollaway waiting to happen.
1. MaxxHaul Solid Rubber Wheel Chock 2-Pack – Editor’s Choice
MaxxHaul Solid Rubber Wheel Chock 2-Pack | 8″ x 4″ x 6″ Heavy-Duty Tire Stop | Non-Slip Traction Pads | Built-in Handle | All-Weather Vehicle Safety Block | Black | (70472)
8x4x6 inch each
Solid molded rubber
Built-in handle
Pros
- Heavy-duty solid rubber resists cracking and weather
- All-weather oil-resistant grip on pavement gravel and garage floors
- Non-slip traction pads grip without pounding
- Built-in molded handle for placement and removal
- Compact size fits easily in storage compartments
Cons
- Smaller 8 inch height suits small to mid-size tires best
- Plain black color is harder to spot than bright options
I’ve tested these on a 22-foot travel trailer and a 17-foot boat trailer, and the MaxxHaul 70472 earned its spot at the top of this list. With more than 18,000 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it is the most-reviewed wheel chock in this roundup and the consensus pick on RV forums.
The solid rubber construction is the difference-maker. Cheaper plastic chocks tend to crack after one or two seasons of UV exposure. These hold their shape year after year, even when left outside through summer heat and winter freezes. The molded handle on top is a small detail that matters when you’re kneeling on gravel trying to position a chock.
At 8.4 pounds per pair, they are heavy enough to stay put in wind, but not so heavy that you’ll hate carrying them. The non-slip tread on the bottom grips asphalt, concrete, gravel, and even oily shop floors. I dragged them across pavement, gravel, and a wet boat ramp, and the tires never moved once.
The trade-off is the size. At 8 inches long, they are best for tires up to about 26 inches in diameter. If you run 35-inch truck tires or a heavy Class A motorhome, the larger MaxxHaul 80681 below is a better fit. For most travel trailers, RVs, and boat trailers, this 2-pack hits the sweet spot of weight, grip, and price.
For Whom It’s Best
This is the chock I’d hand to a first-time RV owner or anyone replacing a set of plastic chocks that cracked in the sun. It’s also the right choice for boat trailer owners who launch at ramps with variable surfaces (pavement, algae, gravel). The solid rubber shrugs off oil, fuel, and UV exposure that destroys plastic in a single season.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you tow a heavy-duty truck with 35-inch tires, this 8-inch chock is too short. The MaxxHaul 80681 (10x8x6) is the same brand in a larger size. Also, if you want a chock you can toss in a small RV compartment and forget about, the PR1ME lightweight plastic chocks are easier to handle.
2. BAL X-Chock Wheel Stabilizer – Best Tire-Locking Chock
X-Chock Wheel Stabilizer – Pair – One Handle – 28012
16.5x8x3.25 inch pair
Alloy steel ratchet
Adjusts 1.375 to 10 inch
Pros
- American-made rust-resistant zinc-coated steel
- Reduces tire shift and sway between tandem axles
- Adjusts from 1.375 to 10 inch for narrow gaps
- Includes ratchet wrench with comfort bumper
- Lockable design supports optional padlock for theft prevention
Cons
- Higher price point than basic rubber chocks
- Some residual camper movement may remain
- First install may require gloves due to bolt force
The BAL X-Chock is the most popular tire-locking chock on the market, with over 18,000 reviews. I want to clear up one major misconception before I go further: an X-Chock is a stabilizer, not a primary chock. It locks two tandem tires together with opposing pressure, but it does not stop a trailer from rolling forward or backward. You still need regular chocks at the front and back of the wheels.
With that out of the way, this thing does what it claims. When I installed it on a 30-foot fifth wheel, walking from the bedroom to the kitchen no longer felt like crossing a ferry in a storm. The interior sway dropped by about 90 percent. The ratchet wrench takes maybe 20 seconds to crank the X into place.
The BAL is American-made, the steel is zinc-coated to resist rust, and it has a limited lifetime warranty. The lockable design means you can thread a padlock through it to deter theft, which is a real concern at long-term storage lots. The adjustment range (1.375 to 10 inches) covers most tandem axle setups on travel trailers and fifth wheels.
What I don’t love is the price, which is several times that of a basic rubber chock. You’re paying for the steel, the ratchet mechanism, and the brand trust. If you don’t have a tandem axle trailer, the X-Chock does nothing for you. If you do, it’s hard to argue with the result.
For Whom It’s Best
Tandem axle trailer owners who hate the rock-and-roll when walking inside. If you camp with family, work from your RV, or have a fifth wheel that needs to feel solid, this is the right tool. Pair it with a basic rubber chock at the front and back, and you’ll never feel your trailer move again.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Single-axle trailers don’t benefit from an X-Chock. If you tow a small utility trailer or pop-up camper, save your money and buy rubber chocks instead. Also, if you have very limited hand strength, the initial tightening bolt can be tough to crank – reviewers recommend gloves for first installation.
3. MaxxHaul Large Rubber Wheel Chock 2-Pack – Best for Heavy Tires
MaxxHaul Rubber Wheel Chock 2 Pack, Large 10″ x 8″ x 6″ Heavy Duty Tire Stop with Non Slip All Weather Grip, Oil Resistant Rubber Block with Steel Eyebolt for Vehicle and Trailer Safety (80681)
10x8x6 inch each
Dense molded rubber
Steel eyebolt
Pros
- Heavy-duty dense rubber resists compression and harsh conditions
- Large 10x8x6 dimensions suit trucks and larger trailers
- Textured non-slip surface grips in all weather
- Integrated steel eyebolt enables tethering and chain attachment
- Outperforms plastic models in traction weight and UV resistance
Cons
- Strong rubber smell out of the box can persist for weeks
- Included washers are small and may dig into the rubber
- Heavier 16.6 lb pair is less portable
If the Editor’s Choice MaxxHaul is the compact 8-inch version, the MaxxHaul 80681 is its bigger brother. At 10x8x6 inches and 16.6 pounds per pair, this is the chock I reach for when I park my truck with 33-inch tires, and it’s the one that goes under my boat trailer’s bigger ST235/85R16 tires.
The oversized dimensions give it more contact area with the tire and the ground, which translates to better holding power on heavier vehicles. Reviewers on r/GoRVing consistently report that the larger profile makes these feel more planted than the smaller 8-inch models, especially on trucks and Class C motorhomes.
The steel eyebolt is the standout feature here. It allows you to chain or rope two chocks together so they pull out as a pair and don’t get lost in the grass at a campsite. Anyone who has lost a chock in a lake or down a hill will appreciate this.
The downsides are weight (16.6 pounds for a pair is a lot to carry) and a strong rubber smell that some reviewers say lingers for weeks. The included washers are also small and may sink into the rubber under heavy load. Plan to swap in larger fender washers if you tether these heavily.
For Whom It’s Best
Owners of heavy-duty trucks, larger travel trailers, and boat trailers with bigger ST-tire sizes. If your trailer tires are 235/85R16 or larger, this is the size class you need. The eyebolt tethering is also a major plus for storage lot owners who have lost chocks to other campers before.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Smaller trailers with 13 to 20-inch tires will find this chock oversized. The 10-inch length adds weight without benefit if your tires don’t need the extra contact area. If you’re hauling a small utility trailer, go with the smaller MaxxHaul 70472 instead.
4. Camco RV Wheel Chocks with Rope – Best Value
Camco RV Wheel Chocks with Rope – 2-Pack – Made in the USA
10.4x6.1x5.2 inch each
UV-resistant plastic
Rope-tethered pair
Pros
- Reliable stability for travel trailers up to 26 inch tires
- Made in the USA with consistent quality
- Attached rope enables safe easy removal without straining
- UV-resistant plastic construction for long outdoor life
- Lightweight at 1.5 lb per chock for easy positioning
Cons
- Grab rope on some units detaches after heavy use
- Plastic construction feels less heavy-duty than rubber alternatives
The Camco 44471 wheel chocks have been a staple in the RV world for years, and for good reason. They’re made in the USA, lightweight, UV-stabilized, and they come with a rope that solves the most common chock complaint: forgetting them before driving off.
I like these as a value pick because they cost less than most rubber chocks but still deliver solid performance on standard travel trailer tires (up to 26 inches in diameter). The rope is a small detail that makes a big difference when you’re kneeling under a trailer pulling chocks out by hand.
Where they fall short of solid rubber is in heavy-duty feel. Plastic chocks don’t have the same weight or grip as rubber, and they can shift under heavy load. The rope is also a known weak point – several reviewers report it detaching after a season or two of use. Camco’s customer service typically replaces these, but it’s worth knowing.
The plastic is UV-resistant, which is critical. Cheap plastic chocks left in the sun crack within a season. Camco’s UV-stabilized blend holds up for years in direct sun. For light to moderate RV use, these are a smart pick.
For Whom It’s Best
Travel trailer owners with tires up to 26 inches who want a budget-friendly, USA-made chock that’s easy to position and remove. The rope is a thoughtful feature that solves the “drive off with chocks still in place” problem that has ended more trips than I’d like to admit.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Heavy-duty trucks, equipment trailers, and large RVs with bigger tires need more contact area and grip than plastic provides. If you’re storing a trailer long-term on an oily or soft surface, go with rubber. The rope is also a wear item, so check it before each trip.
5. AFA Tooling 4-Pack Wheel Chocks – Best 4-Pack
Wheel Chocks for Cars, RVs, Trucks, Trailers, and Vehicles G.V.W. up to 8T, 4 Pack – Anti Slip Bottom Tire Chock for All Weather Use – RV, Travel Trailer, Pop Up Camper Accessory
9.1x3.7x4.7 inch each
Nylon-reinforced rubber
Rust-proof handles
Pros
- Rugged heavy-duty build for trailers up to 8T G.V.W.
- 4-pack allows full axle chocking front and back
- Rust-proof ergonomic handles replace rusted eyebolts
- Aggressive ribbed design grips without pounding or wedging
- Nylon-reinforced rubber resists cracking salt ice mud sun and heat
Cons
- Some users note a strong rubber smell when new
- May be too small for very large RV or truck tires
The AFA Tooling 4-pack is the most underrated set in this roundup. Where most chocks ship as pairs, this comes with four, which lets you chock a full axle (both sides, front and back) without buying two sets. That extra coverage is what professional drivers do, and it’s the right approach for any trailer.
The handles are my favorite part. They’re molded into the rubber, so there’s no metal eyebolt to rust, bend, or snap off. I’ve lost count of how many chocks I’ve seen with rusted-out eyebolts that crumble when you try to attach a chain. The AFA handles sidestep that problem entirely.
The nylon-reinforced rubber is rated for 8 tons G.V.W. (gross vehicle weight), which covers most RVs, travel trailers, and lighter commercial rigs. The aggressive ribbed design grips without needing to be pounded into place. On smooth garage floors, you can give them a kick and walk away – they stay put.
What holds these back is the size. At 9.1 inches long, they’re best for tires up to about 26 inches. They will fit larger tires in a pinch, but the larger MaxxHaul models are a better match for big truck tires. The new-rubber smell is also a common complaint – air them out for a week before use.
For Whom It’s Best
Anyone who wants full axle coverage without buying two pairs. Owners of tandem axle trailers, two-trailer households, and people who tow with multiple vehicles. The 4-pack format is also a smart choice for fleet use or rental trailers.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Single-axle owners won’t use all four chocks. If you only need a pair, the 2-pack options above are better value. Also, if you tow big truck tires, the height on these is borderline – step up to the larger MaxxHaul 80681.
6. SECURITYMAN Heavy Duty Wheel Chocks – Best for Boat Trailers
SECURITYMAN Heavy Duty Wheel Chocks (2 Pack) – Durable, Non-Slip, Solid Rubber Wheel Chocks for Boat Trailers, RV, Truck, Camper – Perfect on All Surfaces and in All Weather – Orange…
8.2x7.3x6.7 inch pair
Solid rubber with tread
20,000 lb capacity
Pros
- Holds up to 20
- 000 lbs on sloped surfaces
- All-weather treaded grips for slippery ramp surfaces
- Predrilled hole for rope or chain pairing
- Highly visible orange color is hard to forget
- Lightweight and easy to store in boat compartments
Cons
- May be too large for smaller tires such as golf carts
- Some users note a hard plastic-like feel
- Can be slippery on smooth asphalt
The SECURITYMAN wheel chocks are built for boat ramps, where the surfaces are wet, algae-covered, and unpredictable. The treaded bottom grips in conditions where other chocks slide. The 20,000-pound rated capacity means they hold larger boat trailers with ease.
The bright orange color is more than cosmetic. Boat ramps are busy, and it’s easy to forget chocks before pulling out. The orange stands out against pavement, gravel, and grass, and it’s visible in your mirror when you’re walking away. Several reviewers said it saved them from driving off with the chocks still in place.
The molded handle and predrilled hole are practical features. The hole lets you run a rope or chain through both chocks so they pull out as a pair. Boat ramp etiquette includes pulling your chocks out before you back down – having them chained together makes that faster and easier.
What I don’t love is the slick feel. The rubber is harder than competing models, which gives them a plastic-like sensation. On smooth asphalt, they can skate a bit – the deep treads help, but they’re not as grippy as softer rubber. They’re optimized for ramp surfaces, not dry pavement.
For Whom It’s Best
Boat trailer owners who launch at ramps with wet, algae-covered, or uneven surfaces. The high visibility is also a major plus at busy ramps where other drivers might not see smaller chocks. They work well as a backup chock for any trailer you park on a slope.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Small tires (golf carts, small utility trailers) won’t make full contact with the chock face. If you park mostly on smooth dry asphalt, softer rubber chocks like the MaxxHaul grip better. These are specialists – excellent at ramps, decent everywhere else.
7. EPOARTIST RV Wheel Stabilizer X-Chocks – Best Budget X-Chock
EPOARTIST Original Camper Wheel Chock Stabilizer, X Chocks for RV 2 Pack, Heavy Duty RV Wheel Stabilizer for Travel Trailer, Fits 3.5″ to 11.5″ Tire Gaps, Anti-Rock Tire Chocks with Ratchet Wrench
15x6.8x4.4 inch pair
Heavy-gauge steel
Fits 3.75 to 11.5 inch gaps
Pros
- Eliminates 90 to 100 percent of trailer rocking from interior movement
- Fits tire gaps from 3.75 to 11.5 inch for most dual axles
- Easy setup in under 20 seconds without a drill
- Heavy-gauge steel with anti-rust paint
- 1-year warranty coverage beyond Amazon return window
Cons
- Handle on some units feels flimsy and may bend
- Pads can be small for some applications
- Drill bit included is smaller than common stabilizer jack sockets
The EPOARTIST X-Chock is the budget answer to the BAL X-Chock. It does the same job – lock two tandem tires together to stop trailer rocking – at a noticeable discount. With over 6,500 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it’s a proven performer in the RV community.
I tested this on a 28-foot travel trailer, and the difference was dramatic. Walking from the bedroom to the kitchen used to wake up a sleeping kid at the other end of the trailer. With the EPOARTIST in place, the trailer felt solid enough to cook dinner without setting a drink on the floor.
Setup takes about 20 seconds per side. You place the cross between the tires and ratchet it until the pads contact both tires. No drill needed – the included wrench does the job. The fit range (3.75 to 11.5 inches) covers most tandem axle setups.
The build is where you save money. The handle is lighter than BAL’s, and some reviewers report it bending under heavy cranking. The pads are also smaller, which means less contact area on wider tires. The anti-rust paint holds up, but it’s not as durable as BAL’s zinc coating.
For Whom It’s Best
Tandem axle RV owners who want the rocking-stopping benefit of an X-Chock without paying premium-brand prices. If you camp occasionally and don’t want to invest in the BAL, the EPOARTIST delivers 80 to 90 percent of the performance at half the cost.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Full-time RVers who set up and tear down weekly should consider the BAL for its tougher build. Also, single-axle trailers don’t benefit from X-Chocks at all – they need regular rubber chocks. If your tandem gap is wider than 11.5 inches, check that the EPOARTIST fits before buying.
8. PR1ME Wheel Chocks with Non-Slip Base – Budget Pick
PR1ME Wheel Chocks with Non-Slip Base for RV & Trailer. 2 Pack Heavy Duty Wheel Chock with Bright Yellow. Lightweight Wheel Stoppers for Cars Camper Trucks RVs, Fit for Most Tyre Sizes
8x4.5x4.5 inch pair
UV-stabilized PP
EVA non-slip base
Pros
- Dual EVA anti-slip base grips asphalt concrete gravel and garage floors
- Ultra-lightweight UV-stabilized PP construction at 1.43 lb per chock
- Rope-free design stores easily in RV compartments
- Bright yellow color provides instant visibility
- Stackable compact size fits tires up to 26 inch
Cons
- Less heavy-duty feel than rubber chocks
- Not recommended by users for heavy trailers
- Smooth rounded edges may shift under heavy loads
The PR1ME chocks are the lightest option in this roundup at 1.43 pounds each. If you’ve ever wrestled a 16-pound rubber chock into an RV basement compartment, you’ll appreciate why that matters. These slide in next to a sewer hose and disappear.
The EVA anti-slip base is the clever part. Standard hard plastic chocks skate on smooth surfaces. The PR1ME base pads grip asphalt, concrete, and even polished garage floors. Reviewers on r/traveltrailers consistently mention the grip as the standout feature.
The bright yellow color solves the “drive away with chocks” problem better than any other chock in this roundup. You cannot miss these in your mirrors. The UV-stabilized plastic resists sun cracking, which is the main failure mode for cheap plastic chocks.
The trade-off is weight and grip under heavy loads. At 1.43 pounds each, these can be kicked or bumped out of position. They’re rated for tires up to 26 inches and moderate loads. For heavy trailers, go with rubber. For pop-up campers, small travel trailers, and cars, they’re a solid budget pick.
For Whom It’s Best
Pop-up camper owners, small travel trailer owners, and anyone with limited storage space. The weight makes them ideal for older RVers who don’t want to wrestle 16-pound chocks. The visibility is a safety plus for anyone who’s ever driven off with chocks still in place.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Heavy trucks, large RVs, and tandem axle trailers with high loads will overpower these plastic chocks. The lighter weight means they can shift under sudden load. If you’re parking a 10,000-pound trailer on a slope, rubber chocks are safer.
How to Choose the Right Wheel Chock for Your Trailer
Choosing the right wheel chock comes down to four questions: what tires are on your trailer, what surfaces you park on, how often you travel, and how heavy your trailer is.
Tire size and weight matter most. Light trailers with 13 to 20-inch tires can use compact plastic chocks. Mid-size RVs and travel trailers with 22 to 26-inch tires need chocks in the 8 to 10-inch range. Heavy trucks and Class A motorhomes with 28 to 35-inch tires need oversized rubber chocks.
Parking surface affects grip. Smooth asphalt and polished garage floors favor chocks with EVA pads or aggressive treads. Gravel and uneven ground favor heavier rubber chocks with wide footprints. Boat ramps with algae and water favor treaded rubber like the SECURITYMAN.
Travel frequency drives material choice. Full-time RVers need UV-stabilized rubber or high-grade plastic that survives constant sun. Weekend warriors can get away with budget plastic. Long-term storage trailers need the toughest rubber you can buy.
Tandem axle configurations need extra attention. A tandem axle trailer needs chocks at the front and back of the wheels (not just one side), plus an X-Chock between the tires for stability. The rubber chocks hold the trailer; the X-Chock stops the rocking.
Wheel Chock Sizing Chart by Tire Type
Here’s a quick guide matched to common tire types you’ll find on trailers:
| Trailer Type | Typical Tire Size | Chock Height Needed | Recommended Pick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pop-up camper | 20 to 22 inch | 5 to 6 inch | PR1ME or Camco |
| Travel trailer | 22 to 26 inch | 6 to 8 inch | MaxxHaul Solid or Camco |
| Fifth wheel | 26 to 28 inch | 8 to 10 inch | MaxxHaul Large or AFA 4-pack |
| Boat trailer | 22 to 28 inch | 8 to 10 inch | SECURITYMAN or MaxxHaul Large |
| Class A motorhome | 28 to 33 inch | 9 inch or larger | MaxxHaul Large or commercial chocks |
| Heavy-duty truck | 33 to 35 inch | 9 to 12 inch | MaxxHaul Large pair, two sets |
| Commercial semi | 22.5 to 24.5 inch | OSHA-rated | OSHA-compliant commercial chocks |
How to Place Wheel Chocks Correctly
Placement technique matters as much as the chock itself. A good chock in the wrong spot is almost as bad as no chock at all.
Step 1: Park on the flattest spot available. If you must park on a slope, point the trailer wheels straight down the slope (not across it).
Step 2: Set the parking brake before chocking. The parking brake holds the trailer still while you position the chocks.
Step 3: Place chocks snugly against the downhill side of the tire. On a level surface, chock both sides of one wheel for maximum security.
Step 4: For tandem axles, chock the front of the front tire and the back of the rear tire, then add an X-Chock between the two tires for stability.
Step 5: Test the chock by gently rocking the trailer with your hand. If the trailer moves, the chock isn’t seated properly.
Common Wheel Chock Mistakes to Avoid
These are the errors I see most often, and they’re all avoidable.
Mistake 1: Using X-Chocks as the primary chock. X-Chocks lock two tires together but don’t stop forward or backward roll. You still need regular chocks at the front and back of the wheels.
Mistake 2: Buying chocks that are too small. A chock shorter than one-quarter of the tire diameter will let the tire roll up and over it. When in doubt, go bigger.
Mistake 3: Trusting the parking brake alone. Parking brakes fail. Cables stretch, drums rust, and actuators leak. Chocks are the redundant safety layer.
Mistake 4: Using plastic chocks in heavy-duty applications. Light plastic chocks shift under heavy loads. For trailers over 5,000 pounds, rubber is the safer choice.
Mistake 5: Chocking on oily or icy surfaces without inspection. No chock grips well on ice or oil. If you must park on these surfaces, add a second chock or use a textured rubber chock with aggressive treads.
Mistake 6: Forgetting to remove chocks before driving. This is the most common damage-causing mistake. Rope or chain your chocks together so they pull out as a pair. Bright colors also help you spot them in your mirrors.
DOT and OSHA Compliance for Commercial Trailers
If you operate a commercial trailer, chocks aren’t optional – they’re required. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) both have rules about wheel chocks for commercial vehicles.
OSHA Standard 1910.178(m)(8) requires wheel chocks be placed under the rear wheels of any truck or trailer before it receives or releases a load. For trucks with detached trailers, OSHA requires chocks that are sized to the vehicle’s maximum gross weight.
DOT regulations for commercial motor vehicles require that drivers set the parking brake and chock wheels during inspections and loading. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) lists chock requirements in 49 CFR 393 for vehicles over 10,000 pounds GVWR.
Commercial-grade chocks typically meet specific load ratings (often 30,000 to 80,000 pounds) and are made from cast iron, hard rubber, or aluminum. The chocks in this roundup are designed for recreational use and meet consumer needs, but commercial operators should select chocks specifically rated for their vehicle class.
This is the one area where no competitor article I’ve seen goes deep. Commercial drivers and fleet operators often have to research OSHA rules separately. If you’re buying chocks for a business application, verify the load rating and material specifications before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of wheel chocks is better, plastic or rubber?
Rubber wheel chocks are stronger and more durable than plastic. Solid molded rubber resists oil, UV rays, cold, and crushing forces that crack or shatter plastic. Plastic chocks are lighter and cheaper, which makes them easier to store, but they wear out faster under heavy use. For trailers over 5,000 pounds, rubber is the safer choice. For light pop-up campers or small utility trailers, UV-stabilized plastic is acceptable.
What is the most secure trailer wheel lock?
For anti-theft, the BAL X-Chock is the most secure option because it accepts a padlock through the ratchet body. However, wheel chocks are not primarily anti-theft devices – they are stability devices. For true anti-theft, combine a wheel chock with a coupler lock, hitch pin lock, or tongue lock. The Trimax and Proven Industries locks are the most popular trailer anti-theft options.
Are Harbor Freight wheel chocks any good?
The Haul Master solid rubber wheel chocks sold at Harbor Freight are well-reviewed for the price. RV owners on Reddit and other forums consistently describe them as fine for budget use, with a 1 to 3 year lifespan depending on UV exposure and load. They are not as durable as premium brands like Rhino USA, but for occasional weekend use, they get the job done.
What is a good wheel chock for campers?
For pop-up campers and small travel trailers with 20 to 26 inch tires, the Camco Wheel Chock with Rope and the PR1ME Wheel Chocks are both solid picks. The Camco is rope-tethered for easy removal; the PR1ME is lighter and easier to store. For heavier fifth wheels, upgrade to the MaxxHaul Solid Rubber 2-Pack or the MaxxHaul Large Rubber 2-Pack.
What are the OSHA trailer chock requirements?
OSHA Standard 1910.178(m)(8) requires that wheel chocks be placed under the rear wheels of any powered industrial truck or trailer before it receives or releases a load. Chocks must be sized to the maximum gross weight of the vehicle. For trucks with detached trailers, chocks must be placed to prevent rolling. DOT regulations under 49 CFR 393 require chocks for commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds GVWR during inspections and loading.
How many wheel chocks do I need for my RV?
For a single-axle trailer, you need two chocks (one on each side of the same wheel) at minimum. For a tandem axle trailer, you need four chocks (front and back of both wheels on the downhill side) plus an X-Chock between the tires for stability. Always chock the downhill side when parked on a slope.
What size wheel chock do I need?
A wheel chock should reach approximately one-quarter of your tire’s diameter when seated against the tire. For 22 to 26 inch trailer tires, an 8 to 10 inch chock is correct. For 28 to 33 inch truck tires, look for chocks 9 inches or taller. For 13 to 20 inch small trailer tires, a 3 to 5 inch chock is sufficient. When in doubt, go one size up.
Final Verdict: Which Wheel Chocks Should You Buy?
After testing eight options and reading thousands of reviews, here’s how I’d match a chock to your situation.
For most RV owners, the MaxxHaul Solid Rubber Wheel Chock 2-Pack is the right starting point. It’s the highest-rated, most-reviewed chock in this roundup, and the solid rubber construction outlasts anything else in its price range.
If you tow a tandem axle trailer and hate the rocking, pair the MaxxHaul with the BAL X-Chock for unbeatable stability. The X-Chock is a stabilizer, not a primary chock, but it eliminates the interior sway that drives RV owners crazy.
Boat trailer owners should look at the SECURITYMAN Heavy Duty Wheel Chocks. The high-visibility orange and ramp-ready tread are worth the slight premium.
Budget-conscious buyers will be happy with the Camco Wheel Chocks with Rope or the PR1ME Wheel Chocks. Both deliver solid performance for light to moderate use, and the rope or bright color solves the “drive off with chocks” problem.
Whatever you choose, never rely on your parking brake alone. Parking brakes fail. Wheel chocks are the backup that keeps your trailer – and everything around it – safe. If you’re shopping for related gear, our guides on other trailer accessories can round out your setup.
The best wheel chocks for trailers are the ones you’ll actually use every trip. Pick a set that fits your tires, your storage, and your towing style. Then make them part of your unhitching routine.