How to Transport a Power Wheelchair Safely: 4 Best Ways

For some reason, transporting a power chair can sometimes feel really stressful. This could be as a result of its weight, size, and fear of damaging it or getting injured during loading. Many users often consider safety, vehicle compatibility, and the physical effort involved. 

However, there are good solutions for this problem, some of which are electric wheelchair carriers, vehicle lifts, and car adaptations. With these tools moving a power wheelchair does not have to be a big deal. 

This guide is aimed at discussing the practical and stress-free ways you can transport your power wheelchair, including safe methods and the necessary tools.

Understand Your Power Chair Before Transporting It

Before you transport your power wheelchair, know the exact weight, not guesses or estimates. Some power wheelchairs are heavier, reaching 90 kg or more, making it a hassle to lift and that's where a ramp or powered lift will be necessary. 

Measure the width and length so that it really fits your lifting equipment. Confirm if it folds, splits, or stays rigid, as that will determine your loading method. Battery type is also important: lithium batteries usually need to be removed or protected while lead-acid batteries can add serious weight to the chair. 

How to Check Your Vehicle Space for a Power Wheelchair

Make sure to measure the depth and width of the trunk, the height of the door opening, and the height from the ground to the vehicle's floor to ensure that your car meets these requirements. More so, the type of vehicle makes a difference. Sedans often come with a low trunk height and narrow openings, which makes them unsuitable for most rigid power chairs unless they fold. 

Meanwhile, SUVs are more comfortable in width and headroom, especially when the back seats are down, while vans are the best in terms of space with flat floors and wide access. Many SUVs can also take electric wheelchair lifts fitted at the rear or hitch, which is less exhausting and makes loading much easier.

Tips: For better results, it is recommended that you: 

1. Measure when the chair is in its travel position. 

2. Add several extra centimeters for clearance. 

3. Cushion hard corners to avoid scratches or damage. 

4 Best Ways to Transport a Power Wheelchair Without Stress

Listed below are our handpicked best ways to transport a power wheelchair without stress, when each method works best, and what to consider. 

Portable Ramps

This ramp allows you to roll up your wheelchair into your SUV or van without the need for any permanent equipment, and they are very convenient for occasional trips. The best option for ramps are those that meet the requirements of your chair. 

The longer the ramp, the gentler the slope which means safer loading plus the weight limit must be more than your chair's weight. Use non-slips surfaces and carefully place the ramp to prevent slips or tipping during loading. Always guide the chair up the ramp and do not ride it to lower the risk of accidents.

Hitch-Mounted Carriers 

A hitch-mounted carrier is a device that is fixed to the truck and carries the wheelchair out at the back of the vehicle. Many carriers come with ramps and can carry power chairs as heavy as 500 pounds, making it easier to load. 

You should, however, consider the weight limit, hitch class, and the weather exposure, and the chair should be secured either with straps or using the built-in tie-downs. This method ensures a free personal space, but it also means that the wheelchair has to withstand the external conditions which is why it might not be the most favorable option on the list. 

Vehicle Lift Systems

Vehicle systems are designed such that the interior and exterior do the heavy lifting for you. Interior lifts raise the chair right to the cargo area, while exterior lifts secure it outside the car. You might consider these systems if you travel frequently or have a heavier chair. 

The good thing is that a lot of them come with a remote control, which means you only have a little to do. However, make sure to check the price, installation requirements, and whether your vehicle can handle the lift's weight and design before making a purchase.

Manual Lifting with Assistance

This is a more suitable lifting method for quick, occasional trips and lighter power wheelchairs. However, before involving a friend or caregiver, weigh the wheelchair, take off the parts that can be detached (such as batteries), making it lighter, and then prepare the vehicle space. 

Plan the lift together with your partner by applying the right body mechanics to prevent getting hurt, and once the chair is inside, make sure it is secured properly. Do not use this method for heavy chairs — it is physically demanding and causes a greater risk of injury.

3 Tips to Load a Power Wheelchair Into a Car Safely

Check out the simple steps on how to load a power wheelchair safely into a car or by using a ramp:

Loading Manually:

1. You should first start by switching off the power wheelchair and set the brakes. After that, position the car close to a flat, stable surface.

2. Get someone to assist you and while keeping your back straight and having a good grip on the equipment, lift the wheelchair.

3. Carefully and slowly put the wheelchair inside the car ensuring that you have removed obstacles from the way.

Using a Ramp:

1. Place the ramp such that it's securely stable and ensure that it aligns with the car.

2. Keep control all the time while you carefully drive the wheelchair up the ramp. 

3. After getting inside, position the wheelchair to the preferred place.

Safety Checks: 

1. Make sure the wheelchair is securely stable and won't tip.
2. Remove any obstructions that could interfere during movement.
3. Be mindful of pinch points and potential hazards.

An electric wheelchair carrier can significantly reduce the manual effort required, making the process easier and safer.

Wrap Up

Now this brings us to the end of this article and so far we've established that moving a power chair doesn't have to be a daunting task. To prepare the right way is to opt for the method that you find safest and most convenient for your daily routine. 

With ramps, carriers, lifts, and vehicle modifications, you can make the process of lifting a power chair an easy and comfortable experience, so there's literally nothing to worry about.