Trailer Latch Locks

Updated October 2026 · How we make money

Our top picks

Dedicated latch pin locksAMPLock

AMPLock

Custom-fit range for many coupler types.

Check current price

Check price at AMPLock ↗
Upgrade: coupler lockMaster Lock 389DAT

Master Lock 389DAT

Low price.

About $36 (masterlock.com list)

Check price at Master Lock ↗
Upgrade: custom coupler lockProven Industries Model 2516

Proven Industries Model 2516

Custom fit wraps the coupler, little room for tools.

About $250 (provenlocks.com list)

Check price at Proven ↗
Quick answer: A trailer latch lock is a small pin lock or padlock that goes through the latch hole of your coupler so it cannot be opened or released from the ball. It is cheap and quick but it is not enough on its own: it stops someone unhitching your trailer from your vehicle, not someone hitching an unhitched trailer. For that you need a coupler lock.
Illustration of a padlock through a coupler latch hole
Illustration of a padlock through a coupler latch hole (TrailerLock illustration).

Comparison

LockBest forFitsPrice (approx.)
AMPLock (coupler, gooseneck, kingpin, hitch, latch pin, door locks)Dedicated latch pin locksCoupler (boat, RV, cargo), gooseneck (Bulldog, Atwood), kingpin, hitch 1-1/4 to 3 in, latch pin, barn/roll-up doorCheck current priceCheck price ↗
Master Lock 389DATUpgrade: coupler lockMost 1-7/8 in, 2 in and 2-5/16 in couplers incl. surge-brake, rolled-lip, UFPAbout $36 (masterlock.com list)Check price ↗
Proven Industries Model 2516Upgrade: custom coupler lockMost 2-5/16 in trigger- and thumb-latch couplersAbout $250 (provenlocks.com list)Check price ↗

How we chose: picks are based on published specifications, materials, fit charts, manufacturer information and patterns in owner reports. We have not lab-tested these locks. Prices are approximate list prices seen on maker sites in October 2026 and change often.

Our picks in detail

AMPLock
Dedicated latch pin locks

AMPLock (coupler, gooseneck, kingpin, hitch, latch pin, door locks)

Who it is for: Owners who want custom-fit security and a fit-finder.

Pros
  • Custom-fit range for many coupler types
  • 5-year warranty with registration
  • Fit quiz on maker site
Cons
  • Prices not confirmed on our check
  • Heavy
Key specs

5-year warranty with registration (per maker).

Check price at AMPLock ↗
Master Lock 389DAT
Upgrade: coupler lock

Master Lock 389DAT

Who it is for: Boat and utility trailers on a budget.

Pros
  • Low price
  • Wide fit incl. surge-brake couplers
  • Bright red is a visible deterrent
Cons
  • Cannot be keyed alike
  • Universal fit leaves room to pry
Key specs

Bright red as a visual deterrent.

Check price at Master Lock ↗
Proven Industries Model 2516
Upgrade: custom coupler lock

Proven Industries Model 2516

Who it is for: Owners of valuable 2-5/16 in trailers stored unattended.

Pros
  • Custom fit wraps the coupler, little room for tools
  • 1/4 in steel, tubular key
  • Keyed-alike option across the range
  • Can capture most safety chain hooks
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Must match your exact coupler model
  • Heavy
Key specs

Can secure most 5/16 in safety chain hooks per maker; check the fit index for your coupler.

Check price at Proven ↗

When a latch lock makes sense

Choosing one

Limits

A thin shackle cuts easily. Treat latch locks as a convenience, not real theft protection.

Latch lock vs coupler lock vs hitch pin lock

LockProtects againstTypical cost
Latch lock / padlockSomeone opening the latch and unhitching your trailer from your vehicleLow
Hitch pin lockSomeone removing the ball mount (and trailer) from your receiverAbout $19 and up (e.g. Master Lock 2866DAT)
Coupler lockSomeone hitching your unhitched trailer to their vehicleAbout $36 to $300+

For a hitched trailer parked at a store or campsite, the latch lock plus hitch pin lock combination covers both release points. For an unhitched trailer, only a coupler or wheel lock helps.

Fitting tips

Do not confuse with a safety pin

Many couplers ship with a plain safety pin or clip in the latch hole. Its job is to stop the latch vibrating open while towing. A latch lock does the same job and adds a lock, so check it is rated or suitable for towing use if you leave it in while driving.

Our pick

AMPLock: dedicated latch pin locks. Owners who want custom-fit security and a fit-finder. If budget matters more, see the other picks above.

Check price at AMPLock ↗

FAQs

What size padlock fits a trailer latch?
Most coupler latch holes take about a 1/4 in shackle; measure yours.
Does a latch lock stop theft?
Only from your hitched vehicle. An unhitched trailer needs a coupler or wheel lock.
Can I tow with a latch lock fitted?
Many owners do, as it replaces the safety pin. Make sure it fully closes the latch and will not vibrate loose.

Related guides

Trailer Pin Locks (Locking Hitch Pins)Best Trailer Coupler LocksBest Trailer Hitch Locks