Christmas Tree Travel: How Far Can They Go?

Transporting a Christmas tree can be a daunting task, especially if you're doing it for the first time. It's important to plan ahead and ensure you have the right tools and vehicle to get your tree home safely. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about transporting a Christmas tree, from choosing the right vehicle to securing and protecting your tree during transit. We will also provide tips on driving with a Christmas tree and suggest alternatives if you don't have the right vehicle or feel uncomfortable transporting it yourself. So, whether you're cutting down your own tree or buying one from a lot, we'll help you get your Christmas tree home safely and stress-free!

Choosing the right vehicle

The right vehicle for transporting a Christmas tree is one that can accommodate the tree's size and weight while also providing a safe and secure means of transport. Here are some key considerations when choosing the right vehicle:

Vehicle Type

• Roof Rack: If you plan to transport the tree on the roof of your vehicle, ensure your car has a roof rack. This is crucial for securing the tree safely and preventing damage to your car. Look for vehicles like SUVs, passenger cars, vans, or minivans with roof racks.
• Pickup Truck: A pickup truck can be an excellent option for transporting a Christmas tree. The bed of the truck provides a safe and spacious area to secure the tree. Just ensure you follow local laws regarding items extending beyond the vehicle.
• SUV, Van, or Minivan: These vehicles often have ample interior space to accommodate a Christmas tree, especially if you fold down the rear seats. This option protects the tree from external elements and road debris.
• Truck: A truck with a bed, such as the Chevrolet Silverado, can be a great choice for hauling a Christmas tree. The integrated tie-down hooks or fixed tie-downs in the truck bed make it easy to secure the tree safely.

Vehicle Capacity

• Weight Capacity: Check the weight capacity of your vehicle's roof rack or truck bed to ensure it can handle the weight of the tree. Christmas trees typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, so make sure your vehicle can accommodate this weight.
• Tree Size: Measure the height and width of the tree you plan to transport. Ensure your vehicle's roof or interior cargo area can accommodate the tree's size. The average Christmas tree is 6 feet tall, so SUVs, station wagons, or vehicles with a long roof may be better suited for taller trees.

Vehicle Safety

• Secure Tie-Down Points: Look for vehicles with fixed vehicle tie-down points or integrated tie-down hooks. These will allow you to securely fasten the tree using strong rope or nylon ratchet straps. Avoid using lightweight twine, as it may not properly secure the tree.
• Wind Resistance: Consider the vehicle's ability to minimise wind resistance when transporting a tree on the roof. A vehicle with a lower roof profile or aerodynamic design can help reduce wind damage to the tree's needles.
• Drive with Caution: Regardless of the vehicle you choose, always drive slowly and take back roads when transporting a Christmas tree. Higher speeds can create significant airflow that can damage the tree and loosen even the most secure knots.

Remember, the key to choosing the right vehicle is ensuring the safe and secure transport of your Christmas tree. Always plan ahead, use the proper equipment, and follow the recommended loading and securing procedures to make your holiday season a joyous and incident-free one.

Using the correct equipment

When transporting a Christmas tree, it is important to use the correct equipment to ensure the safety of yourself, your vehicle, and other drivers on the road. Here are some tips for using the right equipment to transport your Christmas tree:

Vehicle Choice

If you are using a passenger car or SUV, ensure it has a roof rack. A roof rack will allow you to securely tie down your tree and prevent damage to your vehicle. If you don't have a roof rack, consider using a pickup truck, van, or minivan, which can also provide safe options for transporting a Christmas tree.

Tie-Downs

Instead of using the lightweight twine often offered by Christmas tree lots, opt for strong rope or nylon ratchet straps to secure your tree. Ratchet straps are recommended, especially for long-distance or high-speed travel, as they provide a more secure hold. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop the rope or strap around the tree trunk just above a branch to prevent the tree from sliding or moving during transport. Secure the tree in at least three places—the bottom, middle, and top—for added stability.

Tree Netting

Before loading your tree onto your vehicle, have it wrapped in netting. Netting helps keep the branches corralled and reduces wind resistance during travel, ensuring your tree arrives in better condition. It also makes it easier to transport the tree and provides some protection for other drivers if the tree were to come loose.

Vehicle Protection

Lay down a tarp, plastic sheet, or an old blanket on your vehicle to protect it from scratches and tree sap. Place it between the tree and the roof rack or in the cargo area if the tree is inside your vehicle. This will help prevent scratches to the paint and protect your car from any damage caused by loose branches or needles.

Trunk Direction

When placing the tree on the roof rack or in the bed of a truck, always point the trunk of the tree toward the front of the vehicle. This is for aerodynamic reasons, as the wind could catch the smaller end of the tree, potentially blowing it off. The heavy trunk will keep the tree more stable and provides a better anchor point for securing it.

Tug Test

Before hitting the road, test the strength of your tie-downs by giving the tree several strong tugs from different angles. This will ensure that your tree is securely fastened and won't come loose during transport.

By following these equipment guidelines, you can help ensure that your Christmas tree arrives safely and securely at its destination, bringing you one step closer to a joyous holiday season.

Preparing the tree

Before you head out to cut down your Christmas tree, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, check if you need a permit to cut down a tree in your desired location. Some areas may require a permit, which can usually be obtained from the local Forest Service office. It's also important to measure your space beforehand, including the height of your ceiling and the space in your vehicle, to ensure that your tree fits comfortably in both places. Don't forget to bring the necessary tools, such as a tape measure, gloves, and a saw or axe.

When choosing a tree, look for one with flexible needles that stay firmly attached when tugged. Avoid trees with needles that pull out easily or appear dull and lifeless. Once you've found your perfect tree, cut it as low to the ground as possible to allow for future regrowth. Have someone hold the tree steady while you cut, and resist the temptation to push it over, as this can damage the bark.

After cutting your tree, give it a good shake to remove any sap, bugs, and spider webs. If you're planning to transport the tree on your vehicle's roof, use a roof rack and strong tie-downs, such as nylon ratchet straps, to secure it. Place the tree with the trunk facing forward, and tie it down at the bottom, center, and top. Cover the roof with a tarp or blanket to protect your vehicle from scratches and sap. If possible, drive slowly and take back roads to reduce airflow and minimize damage to your tree.

If you're transporting the tree inside your vehicle, fold down the rear seats and place the tree inside with the trunk facing forward. Again, secure the tree with strong tie-downs and cover the seats with a tarp or blanket to protect against sap and needles.

Securing the tree

First, ensure you have the right vehicle and equipment. If you plan to transport the tree on your vehicle's exterior, a roof rack is essential. Avoid tying the tree directly to the roof, as this can damage your vehicle. The typical roof rack can carry loads from 110 to 220 pounds, so it should have no problem accommodating a Christmas tree. If you don't have a roof rack, consider using the bed of a pickup truck or a larger vehicle like an SUV, van, or minivan that can fit the tree inside with all doors closed.

Next, gather the necessary supplies: strong rope or nylon ratchet straps, an old blanket or tarp, and gloves for handling the tree. Avoid using lightweight twine, as it may not be strong enough to securely hold the tree.

Before loading the tree, cover your roof with a blanket or tarp to protect your vehicle's finish and prevent scratches. If possible, have the tree lot wrap the tree in netting to keep the branches corralled and reduce wind resistance during travel.

When placing the tree on your vehicle, position it with the trunk facing the front of the car. This is for aerodynamic reasons, as the heavy trunk will act as a better anchor point and prevent the wind from whipping up the smaller end of the tree.

Now, it's time to secure the tree. Tie it down at the bottom, center, and top using your rope or ratchet straps. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop the rope or strap around the trunk above a lower branch to prevent any side-to-side or front-to-rear movement. Ensure you anchor the tree just above the bottom branches, as this provides a solid mounting point.

Once the tree is tied down, perform the "tug test." Give the tree several strong tugs from various directions to ensure it is securely in place and won't come loose during transport.

Finally, when driving with the tree, go slowly and take back roads if possible. Higher speeds can create significant airflow that can damage your tree or loosen even the best tie-down methods.

By following these steps, you can confidently secure your Christmas tree and safely transport it to your destination.

Driving safely

Transporting a Christmas tree by car can be dangerous if not done properly. Here are some tips to help you drive safely with a Christmas tree:

Plan Ahead

Before you go to buy your tree, make sure you have the right vehicle and equipment. If you plan to transport the tree on the roof of your car, you will need a roof rack and strong tie-downs, such as nylon ratchet straps. Avoid using the lightweight twine that some tree sellers offer, as it may not be strong enough. You should also bring a tarp or blanket to protect your car from tree sap and scratches. If possible, bring friends or family to help you load and unload the tree.

Use the Right Vehicle

If you are using a passenger car or SUV, make sure it has a roof rack. A pickup truck, SUV, van, or minivan can also work, but avoid simply tying the tree to the roof without a roof rack, as this can damage your car and create a safety hazard. If your vehicle does not have a roof rack and is large enough, place the tree inside.

Wrap and Cover

Once you've found your perfect tree, have the lot wrap it in netting to secure loose branches. Cover the roof of your vehicle with a tarp, plastic sheet, or blanket to protect it from scratches and tree sap. If you are transporting the tree in the bed of a pickup truck, put a blanket down first to protect the tree from hot spots in the truck bed.

Place the Tree

Place the tree on the roof rack or in the bed of the truck with the trunk facing the front of the vehicle. This will help reduce wind damage to the branches and needles. Make sure the tree does not obscure your forward vision. If you are placing the tree inside your vehicle, fold down the rear seats and put a large tarp or blanket down first to protect your car from scratches and tree sap.

Secure the Tree

Tie down the tree at the bottom, middle, and top using strong rope or nylon ratchet straps. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop the rope or strap around the trunk and branches to prevent movement during transit. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for how much weight your roof rack can safely carry.

Test and Inspect

Before hitting the road, give the tree several strong tugs from various angles to ensure it is secured in place and will not come loose. If you are transporting the tree a long distance, stop to inspect the tree and its tie-downs a few times during the trip.

Drive Slowly

Drive slowly and avoid high-speed freeways if possible. Stick to back roads and avoid congested areas. Higher speeds create greater airflow, which can damage your tree and stress your tie-downs. If you are unaccustomed to driving with cargo on your roof, use extra caution, as it can affect your vehicle's handling and increase your risk of losing control if you need to stop or brake quickly.

Frequently asked questions