The Basics
Whether you’re transporting a car to a new home, taking it to the shop for repairs, or just taking it out for a joy ride, you’ll need to tie it down properly to make sure it’s safe. Tying down a car on a trailer is relatively easy, and is something every car owner should know how to do. In this guide, we’ll show you the basics of how to tie down a car on a trailer so you can get on the road quickly and safely.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather the following items: straps (ratchet straps are best for tying down heavy items like cars), bungee cords, wheel chocks, and tie-down anchors. The straps should be strong enough to hold the weight of the car, and the wheel chocks should be appropriate for the size of the vehicle. You’ll also need a flat surface to work on, such as a driveway or a parking lot.
Position the Trailer
Once you have all the necessary supplies, you’re ready to begin. First, position the trailer so that the back of the car is facing the ramp. This will make it easier to drive the car up the ramp and onto the trailer. Make sure the trailer is level, and that the wheel chocks are securely in place to prevent the car from rolling off the trailer.
Drive the Car onto the Trailer
Next, drive the car onto the trailer. Make sure to align the wheels of the car with the wheel chocks so that the car is properly secured in place. Once the car is on the trailer, use the wheel chocks to ensure that it doesn’t move.
Secure the Car in Place
Now it’s time to secure the car to the trailer. You can do this by attaching straps to the tie-down anchors on the trailer and looping them around the car. Make sure the straps are tight and securely fastened. For extra security, you can also use bungee cords to secure the straps in place.
Check for Security
Once the car is secured, it’s important to check for any signs of movement. Make sure the car is firmly in place and that the straps are tightened. If you’re transporting a heavier car, it’s also a good idea to check the straps periodically to make sure they’re still secure.
Remove the Wheel Chocks
Once you’ve checked for security, it’s time to remove the wheel chocks. This will allow the car to move freely on the trailer and make the journey much smoother. Make sure to store the wheel chocks in a safe place so that they’re easy to access when you’re ready to unload the car.
Final Check
Before you hit the road, it’s important to do a final check to make sure the car is properly secured. Make sure the straps are tight, the bungee cords are secure, and that the wheel chocks are properly stored away. Once you’ve done your final check, you’re ready to hit the road!
Conclusion
As you can see, tying down a car on a trailer isn’t as difficult as it may seem. With the right supplies and a bit of know-how, you can ensure that your car is securely tied down for a safe and comfortable journey. So the next time you need to transport your car, remember these steps and you’ll be ready to hit the road in no time.