How to transport your bike in a car?

We place great importance on ensuring that items transported via our parcel carpooling platform are well protected, because no carrier is immune to a sudden brake or a sharp turn.

So, to make sure your bike arrives in the same condition at its destination, here are different solutions you can use:

1) Transporting your bike in the boot of your car

Even though this method reduces space in the vehicle and may inconvenience passengers, it is the fastest way to travel with your bike, and it's free! Here is a procedure you can follow:

• Find a suitable box: Not too big, not too small, you need a sturdy box that fits the size of the bike perfectly to avoid extra costs. You can find a box designed for shipping bikes at bike shops; they receive them regularly, so you can usually get one for free.
• Remove the pedals: Using a spanner, unscrew the pedals in the opposite direction to the pedal rotation.
• Unscrew the seat post: With a spanner or by hand.
• Remove the wheels: Loosen the quick releases by hand, then remove the wheels. In some cases, you may need a spanner.
• Secure everything: Place the wheels on each side of the frame, then secure everything with tape.
• Protect the ends: To prevent any part from piercing the box during transport, it's important to reinforce the ends of the wheels with a piece of plastic.
• Put it in the box: You're almost done, you can put the bike in the box. Don't forget to add the pedals and the seat, which you can fix with tape.
• Close the box, your parcel is ready to be shipped! :)

2) Transporting your bike with a boot-mounted bike rack

There are two types of tailgate bike racks: hanging models and platform models.

The first, less expensive, are intended for bikes with thin frames; they are not suitable for very small bikes, low-frame bikes, or full-suspension bikes. The second, platform models, are suitable for all types of bikes.

You can transport up to 3 bikes on all types of vehicles since the device is attached with straps. Adjustment knobs allow you to fit the bike rack to any car model.

Make sure the fastening system is properly in place to avoid any risk of the rack falling off or damaging your vehicle.

Depending on the vehicle model and the bikes being transported, the vehicle's number plate and lights may be hidden: in this case, you will need to add a support adapter. Don't hesitate to stop after a few kilometres to make sure the bike rack hasn't moved.

3) A towbar bike rack for transporting your bikes

Does your vehicle have a towbar? You can fit a bike rack on top that can carry up to 4 bikes!

There are again two types: hanging and platform.

The hanging model, more suitable for short trips, is easy to store but again is not suitable for all types of bikes. The platform model, better for long journeys, is the safest.

Although more expensive, it is ideal for transporting electric bikes.

4) Transporting your bike on roof bars

This type of bike carrier fits the roof bars you have on your vehicle.

These carriers are made up of a rail in which the bike wheels are placed, and a holding arm. It is quite difficult to fix the bikes onto the roof bars as you have to lift them, however, this method is very secure. At least, as long as you don't forget your bikes at the entrance to a car park or garage. ;)

As you can see, all these bike transport methods have their pros and cons. So choose the one that suits you best, but don't forget to follow the safety instructions and the rules applicable to vehicle loading.

Do you have other items to transport? Here are some tips and tricks to protect them during delivery:

• Tips for transporting household appliances
• 5 tips for packing a chest of drawers
• How to pack your parcel properly?