How to Use Ratchet Straps on a U-Haul Tow Dolly, Auto Transport, or Toy Hauler

When towing a vehicle with a U-Haul tow dolly, auto transport, or toy hauler, properly securing your car is the most important step. The built-in ratchet straps (if using the tow dolly or auto transport) are designed to hold your vehicle’s front tires firmly in place, so you’ll have a safe and stable trip. This guide will walk you through how to use the ratchet straps, plus provide additional safety tips and answers to frequently asked questions.

Key Takeaways U-Haul tow dollies, auto transports, and toy haulers offer affordable, reliable solutions for moving vehicles long distances. Be sure to properly route, tighten, and lock the ratchet straps to keep your vehicle secure during transport. Always use safety chains along with straps for maximum towing safety and stability.

Step 1: Unlock and Prepare the Ratchet

When you first receive your tow dolly or auto transport, the ratchet will be in the locked-down position. To release it:

1. Squeeze the inner release handle.
2. Raise the ratchet handle until it locks in the fully upright position.

Once upright, you can pull the ratchet strap completely out. 

Note: If you rent a toy hauler, you will be responsible for providing your own ratchet straps, which you will attach directly to the trailer as you’re loading the vehicle-in-tow. Be sure the straps are rated for at least 3,333 lbs. (or 1,200 lbs. if towing a motorcycle). 

Step 2: Tighten the Ratchet Strap

To secure the tire to your tow dolly or auto transport:

1. Place the strap evenly over the tire, centered left-to-right. 
2. Move the ratchet side-to-side so it lines up with the tire’s center.
3. Raise and lower the ratchet handle repeatedly to tighten the strap until it’s snug.
4. Fold the handle down to lock it in place.

Less than six inches of strap through the spindle may mean your tires are too large. If this is the case, U-Haul offers ropes and other tie-down solutions.

If using a toy hauler:

1. Thread a strap through each tire. Avoid contact with hot components like exhaust pipes.
2. Attach each strap to a secure attachment point, such as the provided “D” rings. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for recommendations.
3. Raise and lower the ratchet handle repeatedly to tighten the strap until it’s snug.
4. Fold the handle down to lock it in place.
5. Skip to Step 4 in this guide.

Pro Tip: If you need heavy-duty axle straps to wrap around your tires, U-Haul has you covered!

Step 3: Route the Strap Correctly Over the Tire

How you route the strap depends on the equipment you’re using:

• Tow dolly: Route the strap under the steel tube.
• Auto transport: Route the strap over the steel tube.

After routing, thread the strap through the slot in the center of the ratchet spindle. Make sure at least six inches of strap come through the spindle before tightening.

If the ratchet straps do not fit over your tires, you will need oversized wheel straps.

Step 4: Attach the Security Chains

Your tow dolly, auto transport, or toy hauler comes with safety chains. Attach the chains to the metal holes on both sides of the hitch. Leave about two inches of slack so the chains do not rub on the ground, and secure the S-hooks with rubber retainers.

Never attach chains directly to brake lines, fuel lines, or non-structural components.

Pro tip: When you move, the items in the truck wiggle and tip with every bump. Using proper tie-downs with blanket padding between your belongings helps prevent them from rubbing together or tipping over.

Why Use U-Haul Ratchet Straps?

• Built-in and tested for safety: The straps are rated for thousands of pounds and designed specifically for U-Haul equipment.
• Easy to operate: The ratchet design makes tightening and releasing quick and secure.
• Peace of mind: When paired with safety chains, your vehicle remains firmly in place throughout the trip.

Benefits of Using a U-Haul Tow Dolly, Auto Transport, or Toy Hauler

• Cost-effective: More affordable than hiring a car carrier service.
• Convenient for long-distance moves: Bring your own vehicle along while driving a moving truck.
• Flexible options: Choose between a tow dolly (for front-wheel drive cars), an auto transport (for all-wheel or rear-wheel drive vehicles), or a toy hauler.
• Nationwide support: U-Haul has locations across the country, so help and equipment are always nearby. You can also request roadside assistance online.
• Towable with U-Haul trucks: The tow dolly can be towed by all U-Haul trucks! If you need to reserve a truck with a tow dolly, you get a combo discount. 

Final Safety Check Before Driving

• Ensure both front tires are centered on the dolly, transport, or hauler.
• Ratchet straps are tight, with at least six inches of strap through the spindle.
• Security chains are connected and have proper slack.
• Ramps (if used) are fully stowed and locked.
• Fenders and latches are back in place.

Once everything is secure, you’re ready to hit the road!