How To Transport A Golf Cart: 3 Proven Methods

Moving your golf cart, whether to a new home, a vacation spot, or the repair shop, can seem like a daunting task. You’re likely wondering about the best way to transport a golf cart safely, how to avoid costly damage, and what the most budget-friendly option is for your specific situation. The fear of something going wrong during the move—a broken part, a scratch, or worse—is a major concern for any owner.

The most preferred method to transport a golf cart is using a flatbed trailer for short distances due to its accessibility and ease of securing, while an enclosed trailer is the best option for long-distance moves as it provides complete protection from weather and road debris.

This guide eliminates the guesswork. Leveraging an extensive analysis of established transport methods and safety protocols, we will unpack the three proven approaches for moving your vehicle. We’ll dive deep into the essential pre-transport preparation, the step-by-step process for safely securing your cart, and a clear breakdown of the costs involved, empowering you to transport your golf cart with total confidence.

Key Facts

Standard Golf Cart Weight: Most standard golf carts weigh between 800 and 1,100 pounds, with electric models often being heavier due to their batteries, a critical factor for determining transport equipment capacity.

Ideal Trailer Size: For the majority of golf cart models, a utility trailer that is at least 5 feet wide and 10 feet long provides a comfortable and secure fit.

Typical Transport Costs: Short-distance moves generally range from $100 to $300, while transporting a golf cart over a long distance can cost between $400 and over $700.

Enclosed vs. Open Transport Cost: Opting for an enclosed trailer for maximum protection will typically be 40-60% more expensive than using an open transport method.

Truck Loading Safety: When loading a golf cart into a pickup truck bed, it is essential for safety to use sturdy ramps set at an angle no steeper than 30 degrees.

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Pre-Transport Checklist: Preparing Your Cart for a Safe Journey

To prepare your golf cart for transport, you must: 1. Clean and inspect it. 2. Secure all loose accessories. 3. Check battery charge or fuel levels. 4. Know its precise weight and dimensions. 5. Remove the roof if height is an issue. This initial phase is the foundation of a successful move. Think of it as a professional pre-flight check; taking these steps seriously prevents the most common and easily avoidable mistakes that can lead to damage. A few minutes of preparation can save you significant time and money later.

Here is a step-by-step checklist to ensure your golf cart is ready for the road:

Clean and Inspect: Start by thoroughly cleaning your golf cart. This isn’t just for appearances; a clean cart makes it much easier to spot any pre-existing scratches, dents, or damage. Go over every part of the vehicle and document its condition.
Document with Photos: After your inspection, take clear photos of your golf cart from all angles. Capture close-ups of any existing damage. This creates a timestamped visual record that is invaluable, especially if you are using a professional shipping service and need to verify the cart’s condition upon arrival.
Secure All Loose Items: Remove or securely fasten any loose accessories. This includes items like ball washers, coolers, and personal belongings. If your golf clubs are on the cart, it is highly advisable to remove them and transport them separately. For items that cannot be removed, like a folding windshield, ensure they are strapped down securely.
Check Batteries and Fuel: For an electric golf cart, ensure the batteries are fully charged and properly secured in their housing. This prevents them from shifting during transit. For a gas-powered golf cart, check the fuel level and inspect for any potential leaks.
Know Your Dimensions and Weight: Accurately measure the height, width, and length of your golf cart. Determine its exact weight, keeping in mind that electric models are typically heavier. This information is absolutely vital for choosing the correct size trailer, confirming your towing vehicle’s capacity, or getting an accurate quote from a shipping service.
Assess the Roof: In some cases, particularly with enclosed trailers or certain transport services, the roof of the golf cart may need to be removed if the total height exceeds a specific limit (e.g., 58 inches). If removal is necessary, wrap the roof in a protective blanket and secure it inside the cart for the journey.

Pro Tip: Before you start, take photos of your cart from all angles. This provides a clear record of its condition, which is invaluable if you’re using a shipping service.

Method 1: Transporting with a Trailer (Flatbed or Enclosed)

The best transport method for a golf cart is a flatbed trailer for short distances due to its ease of use, and an enclosed trailer for long distances to protect it from weather and road debris. Using a trailer is arguably the most common and versatile DIY option for anyone needing to transport a golf cart. It offers a great balance of control, security, and cost-effectiveness, especially if you already own or can easily rent the right equipment. Many find that a standard 5×10 trailer, which can be rented from places like U-Haul, is perfectly sufficient for the job and can be towed by most trucks and SUVs.

The choice between an open flatbed and a fully enclosed hauler is the primary decision you’ll need to make. Based on an analysis of transport data, a flatbed is consistently recommended for shorter, local moves, while an enclosed trailer is the preferred choice for long-distance journeys where protection is paramount.

Here’s a direct comparison to help you decide:

Feature	Flatbed Trailer	Enclosed Hauler (Toy Hauler)
Protection Level	Minimal – Exposed to weather, road debris	Maximum – Fully shielded from all elements
Cost	Lower (to rent or buy)	Higher (to rent or buy)
Loading Ease	Very Easy – Low deck, straightforward ramps	Easy – Rear door often serves as a ramp
Best For	Short-distance moves, budget-conscious transport	Long-distance transport, high-value carts

A flatbed trailer is the go-to for its simplicity. These trailers are typically low to the ground, which makes the process of loading and unloading with ramps much more straightforward and less intimidating. They are lightweight and easy to manage, making them a practical choice for moving a cart across town.

On the other hand, an enclosed hauler, often called a “toy hauler,” acts as a garage on wheels. It offers the highest level of protection, shielding your golf cart from rain, hail, sun, and any rocks or debris kicked up on the highway. This is the ideal solution for protecting a new or expensive custom golf cart, or for any transport that covers hundreds of miles. Is the extra cost of an enclosed hauler worth the peace of mind for your long-distance move? For many owners, the answer is a definitive yes.

Method 2: Hauling a Golf Cart in a Pickup Truck Bed

To haul a golf cart in a pickup, you need a truck with sufficient bed size and payload capacity. Use sturdy ramps at a safe angle (max 30 degrees) and ensure the cart is centered and secured against the cab. While it is possible to transport a golf cart this way, this method demands the highest level of caution and preparation. It should only be attempted if you have a sufficiently large truck and the right equipment, as the height of a truck bed introduces significant risks during loading and unloading.

This approach requires a strong emphasis on safety. Unlike a low-slung trailer, a pickup truck bed is high off the ground, making the loading angle much steeper and less forgiving. Using flimsy or improperly secured ramps is a recipe for disaster, potentially causing damage to your truck, your golf cart, or leading to serious personal injury. Therefore, a safety-first mindset is non-negotiable.

Before you even consider this method, follow these critical safety protocols:

Verify Your Truck’s Capacity: First and foremost, check your pickup truck’s payload capacity in the owner’s manual. Compare this number to the weight of your golf cart. You must ensure the truck can handle the load safely.
Measure Everything: Measure the width and length of your golf cart and compare them to your truck bed’s dimensions. You need enough space not only for the cart to fit but also to close the tailgate if possible, or to have enough room to secure it properly.
Invest in Quality Ramps: Do not compromise on ramps. You need a set of heavy-duty loading ramps that are rated for the weight of your golf cart. They must be long enough to create a safe loading angle.
Maintain a Safe Ramp Angle: The angle of the ramps is crucial for a safe loading process. Ensure a 30-degree ramp angle at maximum. A steeper angle increases the risk of the cart tipping backward or losing traction during loading.
Use a Spotter: Never attempt to load a golf cart into a truck by yourself. Have a spotter guide you to ensure the wheels stay centered on the ramps and to alert you to any potential issues.
Slow and Steady Loading: Drive the cart up the ramps in a slow, steady, and controlled manner. Avoid sudden stops or accelerations. If you have a winch, using it to pull the cart up is an even safer alternative to driving it.

Quick Fact: Standard golf carts can weigh between 800 and 1100 lbs. Always check your truck’s payload capacity before attempting to load it!

Method 3: Using a Professional Golf Cart Shipping Service

Hiring a professional service provides a safe, insured, door-to-door solution for transporting your golf cart. It eliminates DIY risks, with costs ranging from $300 to $850 based on distance and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. For those who prefer to avoid the logistical challenges of a DIY move, a professional golf cart transport service is the ultimate hands-off solution. This option is ideal for long-distance moves, for individuals who don’t have access to a suitable towing vehicle or trailer, or for anyone who wants the peace of mind that comes with a fully insured and managed process.

Reputable shipping companies specialize in vehicle transport and have the experience and equipment to handle your golf cart with care. Companies such as Heavy Haulers and Nexus Auto Transport offer nationwide and even international shipping, providing a seamless door-to-door service. You simply schedule a pickup, and they handle the rest.

Here are the primary benefits of hiring a professional shipping company:

✅ Safety and Security: Professionals use commercial-grade equipment and proven securing techniques to ensure your cart is transported safely.
✅ Fully Insured: Licensed, bonded, and insured services mean your investment is protected against any potential damage during transit, a guarantee you don’t get with a DIY move.
✅ Convenience: These companies typically offer door-to-door service, picking up the golf cart from its current location and delivering it directly to its destination without you having to lift a finger.
✅ Equipment and Expertise: They have the right trucks and trailers for the job and employ experienced drivers who understand how to properly load, secure, and transport vehicles like golf carts.
✅ Open and Enclosed Options: Just like with DIY trailering, you can choose between a more cost-effective open transport service or a premium enclosed service for maximum protection.

When considering this method, remember that cost will be a primary factor.

Remember, enclosed transport will be 40-60% more expensive than open transport, but offers maximum protection.

While it may seem more expensive upfront, when you factor in the potential cost of renting a trailer, fuel, your own time, and the risk of damage in a DIY move, a professional service can often be a surprisingly cost-effective and stress-free choice.

The Critical Step: How to Properly Load and Secure Your Golf Cart

Step 1: Park on a level surface and set up ramps. Step 2: Slowly drive or winch the cart onto the trailer. Step 3: Engage the cart’s parking brake. Step 4: Secure the cart with four straps in an “X” pattern from the axles to the trailer corners. This procedure is the single most important part of any DIY golf cart transport. Improperly securing the vehicle can lead to it shifting, rolling, or even falling off the trailer, causing catastrophic damage and creating a serious hazard on the road.

Mastering the correct loading and tie-down technique is essential. The industry-standard method, a four-strap “X” pattern, is designed to completely immobilize the cart by applying pressure from four different directions, ensuring it cannot move forward, backward, or side-to-side. Have you checked your straps for frays or damage? A failed strap is the #1 cause of transport mishaps.

Follow this step-by-step process for a secure load every time:

Prepare the Towing Vehicle and Trailer: Before anything else, park your truck and attached trailer on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake on your towing vehicle. Ensure the trailer is securely hitched, the safety chains are attached correctly, and all trailer lights are functional.
Set Up Ramps Securely: Position your ramps at the rear of the trailer, ensuring they are aligned perfectly with the golf cart’s wheels. Make sure the ramps are firmly seated and secured to the trailer so they cannot slip during loading.
Load the Golf Cart: Carefully and slowly drive the golf cart up the ramps and onto the trailer. Maintain a steady speed and avoid jerky movements. If available, using a winch is a safer, more controlled method for loading. Drive the cart far enough forward on the trailer to ensure proper weight distribution, which is typically centered over the trailer’s axles.
Engage the Parking Brake: Once the golf cart is in position on the trailer, the very first action you should take is to firmly engage its parking brake. This is your first line of defense against movement.
Implement the Four-Strap “X” Pattern: This is the most crucial part of the process. You will need four heavy-duty ratchet straps.
- Front Straps: Attach one end of the first strap to a solid point on the front axle of the golf cart, and the other end to a tie-down point on the opposite corner of the trailer. Do the same with the second strap, attaching it to the other side of the front axle and crossing it over to the remaining front corner of the trailer. The two straps should form an “X”.
- Rear Straps: Repeat the process for the back of the cart. Attach one strap to the rear axle or towing hook and run it to the opposite rear corner of the trailer. Attach the final strap to the other side of the rear axle and run it to the last corner, again forming an “X”.
Tighten and Double-Check: Tighten all four ratchet straps until they are taut and the golf cart’s suspension is slightly compressed. The cart should feel like a solid part of the trailer. Shake the golf cart vigorously to ensure there is no movement. Check that all hooks are secure and the straps are not rubbing against any sharp edges. It’s a good practice to stop and check the security of your load after the first few miles of travel and periodically throughout your trip.

Understanding the Costs: A Full Breakdown

The cheapest way to transport a golf cart is typically a short-distance DIY move using a trailer you already own. For long distances, professional open transport can be more cost-effective than DIY when factoring in fuel and time. Understanding the potential costs is a crucial part of planning how to transport your golf cart. The final price can vary significantly based on distance, the method you choose, and even the time of year.

A direct comparison of the potential expenses between doing it yourself and hiring a professional service can help clarify which option is best for your budget. The costs provided here are estimates for 2025 and can fluctuate based on location and service providers.

Here is a breakdown of what to expect:

Factor	DIY Transport	Professional Service
Equipment Rental	Can be a significant cost (trailer rental)	Included in the price
Fuel	You pay for fuel for the entire round trip	Included in the price
Insurance	Your personal insurance (may not cover cargo)	Commercial cargo insurance included
Base Cost	Varies by rental company and distance	$100-$300 (Short) / $400-$850+ (Long)
Total Estimate	Can be low for local moves, high for long distance	Often more cost-effective for long distance

For a short-distance move across town, a DIY approach is almost always the most economical. If you have a capable towing vehicle, renting a 5×10 utility trailer is an affordable option.

For long-distance moves, the math begins to change. The cost of fuel for a long round trip, the price of a multi-day trailer rental, and the value of your own time can quickly add up. In many cases, the price of a professional open transport service can be competitive with, or even cheaper than, a cross-country DIY move. When you add the benefit of professional handling and cargo insurance, hiring a service often provides superior value and peace of mind for long hauls.

To ensure your move is as smooth and safe as possible, equipping yourself with the right gear is essential. High-quality, heavy-duty ratchet straps are non-negotiable for securing your golf cart, while a set of sturdy, properly rated loading ramps can make all the difference in preventing accidents.

FAQs About Transporting a Golf Cart

What is the absolute cheapest way to transport a golf cart?

The cheapest way to transport a golf cart for a short distance is a DIY move using a flatbed or utility trailer that you already own. If you need to rent a trailer, this is still typically cheaper than hiring a service for local moves. For long distances, getting quotes from professional open transport services is recommended, as it can sometimes be more economical than a DIY move when fuel and time are factored in.

What size trailer is best for a golf cart?

The ideal trailer for most standard golf carts is at least 5 feet wide and 10 feet long. This size provides ample room for the cart to be parked comfortably and gives you enough space to walk around it to attach and tighten the securing straps properly. Always check your golf cart’s specific dimensions before renting or buying a trailer.

Can you really haul a golf cart in a pickup truck?

Yes, you can haul a golf cart in a pickup truck, but only if the truck has a large enough bed and sufficient payload capacity to handle the cart’s weight (typically 800-1100 lbs). This method requires extreme caution, the use of heavy-duty ramps set at a safe angle (no more than 30 degrees), and a spotter to guide the loading process safely.

How do you strap down a golf cart on a utility trailer?

The best method is to use four heavy-duty ratchet straps in an “X” pattern. After engaging the cart’s parking brake, attach two straps from the front axle to opposite corners of the trailer’s front. Then, attach two straps from the rear axle to opposite corners of the trailer’s rear. Tighten the straps until the cart’s suspension is slightly compressed and it does not move when shaken.

Should I use an open or enclosed trailer for shipping?

Choose an open trailer (like a flatbed) for short distances or if you are on a tight budget. Choose an enclosed trailer for long-distance transport, for high-value or custom golf carts, or for maximum protection from weather, road debris, and potential theft. Enclosed transport typically costs 40-60% more than open transport.

What is the 90-degree rule for golf carts?

The 90-degree rule is a point of golf course etiquette, not related to transport. It requires golfers to keep the golf cart on the paved path until they are directly in line with their golf ball on the fairway. At that point, they can make a 90-degree turn off the path to drive directly to their ball, minimizing turf damage.

Final Summary: Choosing Your Best Transport Method

Choosing how to transport a golf cart ultimately comes down to a balance of your specific needs regarding distance, budget, and the level of protection your vehicle requires. By understanding the distinct advantages of each of the three proven methods, you can make a confident and informed decision. A flatbed trailer stands out as the best choice for short, budget-friendly DIY moves, while professional shipping services are highly recommended for the security and convenience they offer on long-distance journeys, especially for high-value carts.

Your final decision should be guided by a clear assessment of your resources and priorities.

For Short Distances & Maximum Savings: A DIY approach with a rented or owned flatbed trailer is your most cost-effective option.
For Long Distances & Maximum Protection: An enclosed hauler, whether DIY or through a professional service, offers the best protection for your investment.
For Ultimate Convenience & Peace of Mind: A professional, insured shipping service removes all the hassle and risk, delivering your cart safely to its destination.

Regardless of the method you choose, remember that proper preparation and meticulous securing are non-negotiable. Now that you have the playbook for safe and effective golf cart transport, which method fits your next move? Take these insights, plan carefully, and execute your move with confidence.

Last update on 2025-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Transport a Golf Cart: 3 Proven Methods