Can you tow a golf cart behind an RV? Yes, you can often tow a golf cart behind an RV, but you must check your RV’s towing capacity and use the correct tow bar setup. This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about moving your golf cart safely, whether it’s across town or across the country. Moving a golf cart requires careful planning. You want to protect your investment from damage during the journey. We will explore different golf cart shipping options, preparation steps, and loading methods.
Preparing Your Golf Cart for Transit
Before any move, proper preparation is key. This protects the cart and ensures the transport method is safe.
Battery Care During Transport
The battery is a critical part of your golf cart. How you handle it affects safety and performance later.
- For Electric Carts: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This stops accidental electrical shorts. Turn off all accessories like lights or radios.
- For Gas Carts: Turn off the fuel valve. If possible, drain the fuel tank slightly. This prevents fuel spills during rough travel.
- Check Water Levels: If you have traditional lead-acid batteries, check the water levels. Top them off with distilled water if needed. Secure the caps tightly.
Securing Loose Parts
Golf carts have many smaller parts that can shake loose. Tightening these prevents loss and damage.
- Remove or secure items from the roof or cargo area. This includes coolers, bags, or temporary covers.
- Check that mirrors and any attached speakers are firmly attached.
- If you have a windshield, make sure it is locked down or removed if the transport method puts it at risk.
Cleaning and Inspection
A clean cart is easier to inspect. Look for any existing damage before you start the move.
- Wash the exterior. This helps you see small cracks or loose trim pieces.
- Check tire pressure. Tires need the correct pressure for safe towing or hauling.
- Note any existing scratches or dents. Take photos for your records. This protects you if damage occurs during the move.
Choosing Your Golf Cart Transport Method
There are several ways to move a golf cart. The best choice depends on the distance and your budget. You might use golf cart shipping options ranging from DIY hauling to professional services.
Option 1: DIY Hauling with a Trailer or Truck
This offers the most control over the timing and handling.
Using an Enclosed Trailer for Golf Cart Transport
An enclosed trailer for golf cart transport offers maximum protection. It shields the cart from weather and road debris.
- Sizing: You need to know your golf cart trailer dimensions. A standard utility trailer often works well for one cart. Measure the length, width, and height of your cart, including any roof or canopy.
- Ramps: Ensure the trailer has sturdy ramps for loading.
- Securing: Use heavy-duty tie-down straps. Secure the cart at the frame or axle points, not just the plastic body. Apply straps at opposing angles (front-left to rear-right, and so on).
Loading Golf Cart Onto a Truck Bed
Loading golf cart onto a truck bed is practical for shorter moves. This requires caution, especially with larger trucks.
- Ramp Quality: Use high-quality, wide ramps rated for the weight of your golf cart. Aluminum ramps are lighter but must be strong enough.
- Weight Distribution: A golf cart adds significant weight. Ensure your truck’s tongue weight limit (if using a trailer) or payload capacity is not exceeded. Place the cart as close to the truck cab as possible for better balance.
- Securing in the Bed: Use at least four strong tie-downs. Attach them to the truck bed’s anchor points and the cart’s frame. Drive slowly after loading to check if the straps need adjustment.
Option 2: Professional Shipping Services
For long distances or when you cannot haul it yourself, professional services are best.
Comparing Golf Cart Shipping Options
Different companies offer varying levels of service.
| Service Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Carrier Hauling | Short to Medium Distance | Generally less expensive | Exposure to weather and road grime |
| Enclosed Carrier Service | Long Distance, High Value Carts | Excellent protection from elements | Higher cost |
| ATV Transport Services | Carts similar in size to ATVs | Experienced with powersports loading | May require specific pickup/drop-off windows |
Utilizing Specialized Golf Cart Movers
Some companies focus only on powersports equipment. These specialized golf cart movers know the specific tie-down points and weight distribution needs of these vehicles. They often use custom racks or lift gates. This is often the safest but most premium option for shipping a golf cart cross-country.
Transporting Golf Carts Behind an RV
Towing a golf cart behind an RV is common for travelers. It allows you to have local transportation once you reach your destination. However, this requires specific equipment and adherence to safety rules.
Flat Towing vs. Trailer Towing
You generally cannot “flat tow” (towing with all four wheels on the ground) most modern golf carts without damaging the transmission or differential.
- Trailering: The safest method is using a small, dedicated utility trailer pulled behind the RV. This keeps the drive train disconnected from the ground motion.
- Tow Dolly: Some RV owners use a tow dolly that lifts the front wheels of the cart off the ground. Check your golf cart manufacturer’s guidelines before attempting this. Lifting only the rear wheels might damage electric cart components if they spin freely.
Weight and Hitch Capacity
The combined weight of the cart and the trailer must not exceed the RV’s towing capacity.
- Weigh your golf cart.
- Weigh your trailer (if using one).
- Add these weights together.
- Compare this total to your RV’s Gross Trailer Weight Rating (GTWR). Always stay well under this limit for safety.
Long-Distance Shipping: Shipping a Golf Cart Cross-Country
Moving a golf cart across state lines requires paperwork and robust packaging.
Insurance and Documentation
Never ship without adequate insurance coverage. Standard carrier liability might not cover the full value of your cart.
- Valuation: Declare the full replacement value of the cart.
- Bill of Lading: Carefully review the Bill of Lading provided by the shipper. Note any pre-existing damage on this document before the carrier leaves.
Preparing for Long Hauls
Long trips involve more vibration and temperature changes.
- Exterior Protection: Wrap critical areas, like plastic body panels or painted surfaces, in moving blankets or stretch wrap. This prevents scratches from road vibration or contact with other cargo.
- Suspension Check: Ensure shocks and suspension components are in good order. A weak suspension will transmit more shock to the cart frame during a long haul.
Advanced Techniques: Golf Cart Disassembly for Transport
For maximum space savings or when using a carrier that requires smaller footprints, golf cart disassembly for transport might be necessary. This is best reserved for experts or when using a professional service that handles reassembly.
What to Disassemble
Minor disassembly can significantly reduce the height and length of the load.
- Roofs/Canopies: Most roofs detach easily using a few bolts. This is the biggest height saver.
- Windshields: Remove hinged or folding windshields.
- Seats: Rear-facing seats often unbolt quickly.
Reassembly Considerations
If you disassemble the cart, keep a detailed checklist.
- Label all bolts and hardware. Use small, clearly marked bags for each component group (e.g., “Roof Bolts,” “Seat Hinges”).
- Keep the owner’s manual handy. It shows the correct torque settings for reassembly.
Safety Checks During Transport
No matter the method, safety checks during the journey are vital.
Tie-Down Re-Checks
Straps loosen due to road vibration and temperature shifts.
- First Stop (10 miles): Stop shortly after starting the journey. Check all straps, tighteners, and connections.
- Mid-Journey Stops: If the trip is over four hours, stop every two to three hours to inspect the load, especially if you are using an enclosed trailer for golf cart transport where you cannot easily see the load.
Towing Safety Reminders
If you are towing a golf cart behind an RV or another vehicle, observe these rules:
- Braking Distance: Remember that your total load is heavier. Allow much more space to stop safely.
- Speed Limits: Observe the speed limits posted for towing. Excessive speed strains the tires and suspension of both the tow vehicle and the trailer/cart.
- Lights: Verify that the trailer wiring is functional, including brake lights and turn signals, if using a trailer.
Comparing Transport Costs
The cost to move your golf cart varies widely based on the distance and chosen method.
| Transport Factor | Low Cost Example (Local) | High Cost Example (Cross-Country) |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Personal Truck Bed Haul | Specialized Golf Cart Movers (Enclosed) |
| Factors Affecting Price | Fuel cost, minor rental ramp fee | Insurance valuation, carrier service fees |
| Typical Range | $50 – $150 | $800 – $2,500+ |
If you are comparing golf cart shipping options, always get quotes based on whether the service is door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal. Door-to-door is more convenient but costs more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I ship a golf cart using standard parcel carriers?
A: No. Golf carts are too large and heavy for standard parcel services like UPS or FedEx ground shipping. You must use freight services or specialized ATV transport services.
Q: What is the difference between hauling and shipping a golf cart?
A: Hauling usually means you are actively towing or driving the cart on a trailer yourself. Shipping means a third-party carrier takes possession of the cart to move it for you, often using large freight trucks or dedicated auto transport vehicles.
Q: How do I prepare my golf cart if I use a non-specialized freight carrier?
A: If you use a general freight service, you must secure everything tightly. Ensure the cart is positioned securely on the pallet or skid provided. You may need to remove accessories like mirrors and secure the roof well, as freight handlers might stack items around your cart.
Q: Does the size of the golf cart matter for transport?
A: Yes, size matters for golf cart trailer dimensions and space on a truck. Standard golf carts (4-6 seater) fit well on standard 5×10 or 6×10 trailers. Larger, lifted, or modified carts might require an oversized trailer or professional arrangement due to height restrictions, especially under bridges or when using an enclosed trailer for golf cart service.
Q: Is it cheaper to use an open trailer or an enclosed one?
A: Open trailers are almost always cheaper. Enclosed trailers cost more because they offer better protection from theft, debris, and weather, which is important when shipping a golf cart cross-country.
Q: What if my golf cart is electric and I ship it with the batteries connected?
A: This is dangerous. Electric carts must have the battery terminals disconnected before transport to prevent short circuits, which could cause a fire, especially if the vehicle is jostled or subjected to temperature extremes. Always follow safe battery procedures mentioned earlier in this golf cart moving guide.