How to Load a Car on a Flatbed Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide

You’ve just rented a car hauler — now what? Loading a vehicle on a flatbed trailer safely requires careful planning, the right technique, and attention to detail. This guide walks you through every step to ensure your car is secure and ready for transport.

About the Diamond C 20ft Car Hauler

Before You Start: Check Your Tow Vehicle

Verify that your tow vehicle is up to the job. Check your vehicle’s owner manual for maximum towing capacity and make sure you have adequate power to move the loaded trailer safely. The tongue weight of a loaded Diamond C 20ft hauler will be approximately 1,000 lbs.

Step 1: Set Up on Level Ground

Find the most level ground available and position your trailer there. Use a level tool to verify the deck is as flat as possible. An unlevel surface can cause the vehicle to roll during loading or shift during transport.

Step 2: Deploy Your Ramps Properly

Position the ramps so they form approximately a 15-degree angle with the ground. Align both ramps so they’re parallel to each other and symmetrically positioned on the deck.

Step 3: Drive or Winch Your Car Up

You have two options: drive the vehicle up yourself or use a winch. If driving, maintain a steady speed of 1 mph with no sharp steering inputs. If using a winch (the safer option), attach the winch cable to the vehicle’s frame at the center and pull slowly and steadily. Never jerk or accelerate the winch.

Step 4: Center Your Vehicle

Once the vehicle is fully on the deck, position it dead center. The deck is 83″ wide, so aim to split the difference equally on both sides. A centered load distributes weight evenly, ensures stability, and prevents shifting during transport.

Step 5: Secure With a 4-Point Tie-Down

Use a minimum of four straps to secure the vehicle — one at each corner. Position the straps over the tires (not the wheels), angling them slightly forward or backward to create downward tension. Attach the straps to the frame, not the body panels.

Step 6: Double-Check Everything

Walk around the entire trailer and inspect every strap. Pull on each one to verify it’s secure. Check that the vehicle hasn’t shifted, that the ramps are properly stowed, and that no loose tools or equipment are on the deck.

Step 7: Check Your Straps During the Drive

Vibration and road conditions can gradually loosen straps. Every 20 to 30 minutes on longer hauls, pull over and verify all straps are still tight. A quick strap check takes less than a minute.

Safety Tips and Common Mistakes

1. Never load on an uneven surface. Gravity will work against you.
2. Don’t skip the centering step. An off-center load creates dangerous handling conditions.
3. Never use damaged or worn straps. Frayed webbing or bent hardware reduces holding power.
4. Don’t rely on just two tie-downs. Four-point securing is the industry standard.
5. Never ignore weird sounds or vibrations. Pull over immediately and inspect the load.