Car Transporter Operations: How to Run a Business Transporting Cars

The transportation of cars across the UK’s road network requires specialist equipment and knowledge to ensure vehicles are moved safely and efficiently. Whether using a dedicated car transporter trailer or a larger commercial vehicle, operators must follow strict guidelines for automotive car transport.

Vehicle Requirements

Car transport trailers and transporters must comply with standard construction and use regulations unless operating under special orders. For safe car transportation, upper decks must be fitted with guardrails to prevent falls; training in working at height is important. Operators need visibility systems that may include additional mirrors or cameras to maintain clear views around their loaded car transport trailer.

Safety Considerations

Automotive car transport presents unique safety challenges. Falls from car transporters pose one of the most serious risks in the operation. According to HSE guidance, falls from the upper decks, which are often more than 2 meters high, can result in death or serious injury.

To ensure safe car transport, employers must:

• Install and maintain adequate edge protection where falls are possible.
• Keep surfaces free from hazards that could cause slips or trips.
• Provide proper access equipment, like well-maintained ladders.
• Supply appropriate footwear based on risk assessment.
• Ensure sufficient lighting for loading and unloading vehicles.

Loading and Unloading

Many car transporter trailer operations take place at dealerships, often on public roads. This common practice in car transportation requires careful planning between the haulier and dealer to identify safe locations and methods for loading and unloading vehicles.

Driver Requirements

Drivers involved in automotive car transport need specific training beyond standard HGV qualifications. This includes understanding how to work safely at height, secure different types of vehicles, and conduct site-specific risk assessments. Familiarity with various vehicle types is essential, as car transport often involves handling different makes and models. Training in low-speed manoeuvring is essential.

Load Security

For safe car transportation, each vehicle must be properly secured to prevent movement during transit. This usually means strops over the wheels that are connected to anchor points on the transporter. The Department for Transport emphasises that car transport operators must develop specific load-securing plans for every journey, considering the types of vehicles being carried and route conditions.

Legal Compliance

Car transport operations must comply with drivers’ hours regulations and working time rules. Whether using a dedicated car transporter trailer or a specialist vehicle, regular maintenance checks are essential, particularly of hydraulic systems, securing equipment, and access devices.

By following these guidelines and maintaining high safety standards, operators can ensure efficient and safe automotive car transport across the UK’s roads.

Note: This article covers standard car transport operations rather than special types of movements, which have additional requirements for abnormal loads or specialist vehicles.