How to Transport a Car on a Trailer | Quick Guide
This quick guide covers everything from choosing the right trailer, how to load a vehicle on safely and how to save money in the process.
If you're planning on moving a vehicle interstate or over a long distance, you have a few methods to choose from; these are:
- Drive the car yourself
- Tow the car on a trailer
- Use a car transport service
In this guide, we're specifically looking at the 2nd option, the use of a trailer. We'll cover everything you need to know about how to transport a car on a trailer, including what you'll need, how to load the car onto the trailer, how to tie it down, and some tips for making the journey go smoothly.
What You'll Need
To transport your car on a trailer, you'll need a few key items:
- A Trailer: Of course, you'll need a place to put your car! If you don't have one, you can usually rent them from moving companies or dedicated car trailer hire companies. Just be sure to get one that's big enough and rated for the weight of your car. Check out the top car trailer rental companies in Australia.
- Loading Ramps: These will help you get your car up onto the trailer. Make sure they're wide enough to accommodate your car's tires and that they have a non-slip surface.
- Wheel Chocks: these are blocks that you'll put behind your car's tires to keep it from rolling while you're loading or unloading it.
- Tie-Down Straps: these are what you'll use to secure your car to the trailer so it doesn't move around during transport. You'll need at least four of them, and they should be rated for the weight of your car.
How to Load a Car Onto a Trailer
Now that you have all the necessary equipment, it's time to get started. The first step is loading your car onto the trailer. If you're doing it by yourself, be sure to put the transmission in neutral and engage the parking brake. You'll also want to block the front wheels so they don't roll while you're loading.
To start, back the trailer up to your car so the ramp is in line with the bumper. Then, drive your car slowly up the ramp and onto the trailer. Once the car is on, put it in park or engage the emergency brake. You may also want to put blocks under the tires or use wheel chocks to keep them from rolling off.
How to Tie Down a Car on a Trailer
The next step is securing your car to the trailer so it doesn't move around during transport. The best way to do this is with tie-down straps. You'll need at least four of them, and they should be rated for the weight of your car.
To start, attach one strap to the front left tire and run it diagonally across the car to the back right tire. Then, do the same with a second strap on the front right tire and back left tire. Next, attach a strap from the front bumper to the back of the trailer. Finally, attach a strap from the back bumper to the front of the trailer.
Final Tips for Transporting Your Car
Here are a few final tips to help make sure your car transport goes smoothly:
Make sure you have insurance: be sure to check with your insurance company to see if your car is covered while it's being transported.
Check the weather: before you head out, be sure to check the forecast and plan your route accordingly. You don't want to get caught in a storm while you're driving!
Drive carefully: when you're driving the trailer, take it slow and be cautious. Remember, you're carrying precious cargo!
Need Help?
As outlined at the beginning, there is another much easier way to get a car from A to B. Using a professional car transport service will save a lot of hassle, and you'll have peace of mind that your vehicle will make it to its destination without any damage.
It doesn’t have to break the bank either. Upmove is the online comparison website that helps you get quotes from multiple carriers - so you know you’re getting the best service at the best price.
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