During the holiday season, many drivers enter body shops with cars damaged from transporting Christmas trees. Often, people are unsure of the best ways to attach these decorations to their vehicles and leave behind marks that require professional attention. To avoid that fate, here are three tips for reducing the likelihood that your trip to the tree stand or chop-your-own forest will end in an appointment at a body shop.

How to Move a Christmas Tree Safely

1. Use a Roof Rack

Securing a tree to the top of a car is likely to damage both the car and the tree. Instead, place it on a roof rack to raise it off the surface of the vehicle or put it in the back of a truck. You may also want to wrap a large blanket around the tree before transport to further minimize the risk of damage.

2. Bring Your Own Tie-Downs

Christmas tree farms, lots, and cut-your-own groves often provide inexpensive twine to secure your purchases. Instead, use stronger, more durable tie-downs such as ratcheting straps and bungee cords. These higher-quality options are less likely to break and cause an accident on the road. 

3. Use Appropriate Attachment Points

Don’t just place the tree on the roof and wrap a rope around the car a few times — this is a recipe for disaster while on the road. Tie the tree down at its bottom, center, and top by securing the rope to the sides of the roof rack. For added stability, wrap an additional line of rope around the trunk. If you’re unsure, head to a body shop to get a professional opinion. Additionally, make sure the tree trunk is facing forward to keep the branches intact before securing it to the car. This will reduce the amount of drag while driving.

If you incur damage while transporting your tree and need body shop services, contact Valiante Auto Body in Fairfield County, CT. Their team has been in business since 1976 offering everything from full restorations on foreign vehicles to fixing dents in domestic cars. Call (203) 847-3043 or visit the website for information on their estimates and to learn how their staff can help you handle insurance claims.