Collector Car Transport Gear: Tie-Downs, Straps & Trailer Essentials
Whether you are heading to a show, an auction or a new garage, transport is where many collector cars get damaged. Proper tie-downs and trailer gear protect the car from the moment it rolls on.
Secure the car by the wheels when you can, protect the paint and suspension, and carry the right accessories.
Jump to: 1. Wheel Net Tie-Downs · 2. Ratchet Strap Kits · 3. Axle Straps · 4. Trailer Winches · 5. Low-Angle Loading Ramps · 6. Wheel Chocks · 7. Trailer Hitch Locks
Transport Picks for Collectors
1. Wheel Net Tie-Downs
Wheel nets secure the car by the tires, letting the suspension move naturally and avoiding stress on the frame or bodywork.
Best For: Enclosed and open trailers.
Shop Wheel Net Tie-Downs on Amazon
2. Ratchet Strap Kits
Heavy-duty ratchet straps with soft loops and coated hooks hold the car firmly without scratching.
Best For: General transport.
Shop Ratchet Strap Kits on Amazon
3. Axle Straps
Padded axle straps protect suspension parts and give a clean anchor point on cars without obvious tie points.
Best For: Cars without tie-down points.
4. Trailer Winches
An electric winch loads non-running cars slowly and under control.
Best For: Non-running project cars.
Shop Trailer Winches on Amazon
5. Low-Angle Loading Ramps
Ramp extensions reduce approach angle so low cars can load without scraping splitters or exhausts.
Best For: Low-clearance cars.
Shop Low-Angle Loading Ramps on Amazon
6. Wheel Chocks
Rubber chocks keep the car and trailer stable during loading and unloading.
Best For: Every trailer.
7. Trailer Hitch Locks
Coupler and hitch locks keep a loaded trailer from disappearing at a hotel lot or show.
Best For: Overnight stops.
Shop Trailer Hitch Locks on Amazon
What to Look For
Working load limit: Check the rated working load of every strap and anchor, not just the break strength.
Wheel-based securing: Securing by the tires lets the car’s suspension absorb road movement.
Soft contact points: Use soft loops and padding anywhere straps touch the car.
Inspection: Replace frayed, sun-faded or cut straps.
FAQ
Is enclosed transport worth it?
For valuable, original or freshly restored cars, most collectors prefer enclosed transport.
How many tie-downs do I need?
Four, one at each corner, is standard practice.
Should I put the car in park and set the brake?
Yes, but never rely on the transmission or brake alone. The straps do the work.
A few hundred dollars of proper gear protects a car worth many times that. Strap it right every time.