Christmas Tree Transportation Safety

Published December 13, 2019 | By southcentral

Christmas Tree Transport Safety

How many tree-topped vehicles will you spy this month? The Christmas tree buying season is in full swing! Before you leave your home to find that perfect tree, measure the dimensions (height, width, depth) of the expected trees location in your home to make sure that the perfect Christmas tree fits in your space!

The American Automobile Association (AAA) offers some tips for transporting trees:

Make sure to bring strong rope or nylon ratchet straps, an old blanket, gloves and of course – the right vehicle. One with a roof rack is ideal but a pickup truck, SUV, van or minivan can work just as well.

Have the lot wrap the tree in netting before loading it. Loose branches can also be secured with rope or twine to help protect the tree from damage.

Cover the roof with an old blanket to protect the car from any damage.

Place the tree on the roof rack or in the bed of the truck with the trunk facing the front of the car. If the vehicle does not have a roof rack and is large enough – place the tree inside.

Secure the tree at its bottom, center and top using strong rope or nylon ratchet straps. Avoid using the twine offered by many tree lots. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop the rope or strap around the tree trunk above a branch to prevent any side-to-side or front-to-rear movement.

Once tied down, give the tree several strong tugs from various angles to make sure it is secured in place and will not come loose.

Drive slowly and take back roads if possible. Higher speeds can create significant airflow that can damage your tree or challenge even the best tie-down methods.

Wishing you Safe Travels and a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!