How to Safely Transport a Christmas Tree
It’s that time of year again – the holiday season is in full swing, and many people are hanging holiday lights, putting up Christmas trees, and decorating their homes for the holidays. If you’re planning on purchasing a real tree this year, it’s important to arrive at the tree lot prepared. Keep the following tips in mind to help you transport your tree safely:
- Take measurements ahead of time. Measure where you plan to put the tree in your home, as well as the top of your car, to ensure you will be able to transport and set up your tree. Another factor to consider is if you’ll be able to take the tree off of your car without help. If not, it is a good idea to choose a different tree.
- Watch the weather before you go pick out your tree. Clear conditions during the day are best. This is the one time of the season not to go dashing through the snow.
- Trees often come wrapped in netting. Leaving this netting on will make the tree more manageable to transport and protect the tree from damage. If the tree is not wrapped in a net, wrap it in an old blanket before fastening it to your car to condense it as much as possible.
- The best option for transporting your tree is to attach it to a roof rack. If you do not have a roof rack, make sure you firmly attach the tree to your vehicle. Open the entire car door (not just the window) to fasten the tree around the roof. Wrap the base, middle, and top of the tree to make sure it is secure.
- If you’re not using a roof rack, lay down an old blanket or a tarp on the roof of your vehicle to avoid scratches and to protect your vehicle from sap.
- Place the tree on the roof of your vehicle with the stump facing forward. This will help avoid wind damage to the tree.
- If you are transporting the tree inside of your vehicle or in the bed of a truck, make sure you can still see out of your windows and rearview mirror.
- Drive slowly! It’s always important to practice caution on the road, but it is a good idea to practice extra caution when transporting an uncommon or heavy object. Sharp turns or fast stops could shift the positioning of the tree and cause problems.
For additional tips about celebrating the season safely, including tips for setting up your Christmas tree, click here.
