Whether you’re planning a getaway to a car show or moving across state lines, there may come a time when you’ll need to transport your historical vehicle. Since your car is likely among your most prized possessions, ensuring its safety while on the move is essential. From preparing your vehicle to making the right trailer rental decisions, here’s how you can set yourself up for stress-free travel.

Strategies for Safe Transportation of Historical Vehicles

1. Select the Right Trailer

While enclosed trailers offer more protection against the elements, open-style is more affordable—whether you’re considering a trailer rental or purchase. Also, decide on the material for your car hauler. If you’re purchasing, wood is more affordable, but aluminum may last longer. Both options are well-suited for trailer rentals.

2. Check Your Trailer

After you’ve connected the trailer, check all of the lights, including parking lights, turn signals, and brake lights. Take it for a short drive around the block to test the brakes. Also, look beneath the trailer and hitch to ensure no wires or chains are hanging too low.

3. Secure the Vehicle

When you’ve confirmed the trailer is ready, it’s time to load your vehicle. Set the ramps in place or open the loading gate. You can either drive the car on or use a winch. In either case, move slowly and check the position of the vehicle relative to the ramp and side rails as you go. Tie down the chassis or suspension using four ratchet straps and four axle straps.

4. Inspect During Stops

Roughly 10 to 25 miles into your journey, pull into a gas station or rest stop to perform a once-over. Check the hitch assembly, ratchet straps, safety chains, and breakaway wire. Inspect all tires for any visible holes or low pressure, and ensure all wires are connected. Repeat these steps any time you stop for food or gas, and tighten the lug nuts at least once during your journey.

5. Practice Roadway Safety

Because you have a heavier load, drive slower and maintain an increased following distance to give yourself plenty of time to stop. Avoid slamming on the brakes, and always take wide turns to accommodate the extra length. Turn the wheel in the opposite direction of where you want the trailer to go when backing up.

If you’re looking for a dependable way to transport your classic car, turn to Smith Trailers & Equipment. Specializing in trailer rentals and sales, this company has been serving the Cincinnati, OH, area since 1992. Browse through their large inventory on their lot, or look at some of their car haulers online. Contact a helpful associate by calling (513) 755-2497.