Transporting vehicles with low ground clearance

Sports cars and specialty vehicles with unusually low ground clearance cannot be loaded and unloaded onto the Auto Transport in the conventional manner. However, customers willing to direct extra effort to special loading and unloading techniques, may overcome problems that would otherwise make hauling impossible.

Loading ramp angle

You can raise the vehicle clearance by laying a 2x8 board on the ground against each ramp end. If the front of your vehicle is longer, you will need a longer board.

Clearance can be increased further by using 2 boards. If 2 boards are used, the end of the ramp is placed on top of the lower board (as shown). 3 boards can be used, with the ramp end placed on top of the second board.

A shallower ramp angle can also be achieved by pulling the truck (not the trailer) onto elevated ground to raise the hitchball.

If available, raising the vehicle clearance can also be accomplished by backing the Auto Transport up to an elevated curb, inclined driveway, or similiar area that will support the end of the ramp, and allowing the towed vehicle to be loaded from the raised area.

Tire stops

If clearance at the front of your vehicle is not adequate to clear the 6 inch tire stops at the front of the trailer, an 18 inch length of 2X8 can be placed on the trailer deck to increase the clearance (as shown). These boards should be centered under the tires.

If the front overhang of your vehicle is longer, you may need to position a second board to the rear of the tire-strap attachment bar as shown. Do not place any board over the top of the strap attachment bar.

Loose boards placed on the Auto Transport for loading purposes are to be removed when loading is completed.

Always proceed slowly when loading. Have an observer watch vehicle clearance as you load.

Special techniques must be repeated for unloading.

These loading techniques are presented for consideration where other options are not available. U-Haul is not responsible for any vehicle or cargo damage.

Share |

Related articles

Select-A-Hitch Guide

This guide will help you select the proper hitch for your vehicle depending on what you want to tow and your vehicle's capabilities

September 1, 2010

Hitch Selection Guide

Learn about the different components and how to determine the ratings for your hitch system, and the tongue weight of the trailer.

June 22, 2010

How to select and hook up a trailer

This video explains what makes a good trailer and towing vehicle combination and how to hook your trailer to your hitch safely.

May 11, 2010

Learn how to load and haul a trailer safely

This video will teach you safe trailer loading practices and driving tips to help you get to your destination safely.

May 11, 2010

How to determine your hitch system rating

Watch this short video on how to determine your hitch system rating on your vehicle.

April 26, 2010