How to transport a race car?

Transporting a race car is a delicate operation that requires special attention. These vehicles have specific technical features and dimensions, often quite different from regular cars. The low ground clearance and size, especially for track cars, make handling more complex.

To avoid any issues, it is essential to choose transportation solutions that meet these technical constraints 🚛

Transporting a race car with a car trailer

Several options are available to transport your vehicle, and a car trailer remains one of the most popular solutions. Each method has its pros and cons in terms of cost, practicality, or safety.

Don’t forget that transportation isn’t just about the car! Additional equipment, such as tire sets, spare parts, tools, and even your driver’s equipment, must be accounted for to avoid any surprises 😉

Flatbed trailer or car transporter

The first option that comes to mind when transporting a race car is the flatbed trailer or car transporter trailer.

Suitable for many vehicle types, it is both easy to maneuver and cost-effective, making it an ideal solution for enthusiasts or those with a limited budget 👍

This option involves loading the race car onto a trailer equipped with a flat deck. The vehicle is secured using chocks and straps, ensuring its safety during transit. Its main advantage? Simplicity. You just need to drive the car onto the trailer and attach it to your tow vehicle.

However, be mindful of the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). It’s crucial to check the combined GVWR of the towing vehicle, trailer, and car to stay within legal limits and avoid penalties. Overloading can also compromise transport safety ⚠️

There are single, double, or triple axle trailers, some with brakes and others without. They can feature wheels under the deck or outside the chassis. To ease loading, options like a winch (manual or electric), a hydraulic kit, ramps, or a tilting deck can be added.

These open trailers expose the vehicle to the elements and prying eyes. However, some models allow for adding a cover for extra protection.

In terms of cost, a new car transporter trailer generally costs between €2,000 and over €8,000, depending on equipment and options. If you only need it occasionally, renting is an attractive alternative, with rates starting at €100 per day. Finally, buying a used trailer is a practical way to reduce costs, with often more affordable prices.

Enclosed trailer

As the name suggests, an enclosed trailer is equipped with a body that fully protects the vehicle from the weather, stone chips, and prying eyes. This solution is particularly suitable if you need to transport a race car, a high-end sports car, or a vintage car of significant value.

Over long distances, an enclosed trailer offers an extra layer of security and ensures discreet transport, a considerable asset for keeping your vehicle in optimal condition 😉

Various enclosed trailer models exist, from simple car transporters with a lift-up cover (practical but requiring careful dimension checks) to full-fledged box trailers. The latter, being heavier, are also more robust, making them a durable solution for frequent users.

However, the cost of these trailers is significantly higher than open models. A new model costs between €13,000 and €30,000, depending on options and finishes. For rentals, rates range between €150 and €300 per day, making it ideal for occasional use but less economical in the long term 💸

Which brand should you choose for your car transporter trailer?

Choosing the right brand for your trailer is essential to ensure secure and suitable transportation. The flatbed car transporter trailer remains a very popular solution among competitors thanks to its ease of use, low fuel consumption, and excellent value for money.

Among the most recognized brands for this type of trailer are Ifor Williams, Lider, Trigano, Lorries, and Anssems.

For those looking for extra protection, enclosed trailers provide an excellent solution. These models, ideal for high-value cars or long-distance trips, are offered by specialized brands such as Brian James, Vérene, Woodford Trailers, Humbaur, Rymax, Turatello, Mema Race Trailers, DELBERG, DEBON, or Atec Trailers.

Whether you're looking for a new or used trailer, check out our trailer listings for sale or rent to find the model that suits your needs 😎

⚠️ Understanding weight limits: GVWR, TWC, GCWR ⚠️

To choose the right car transporter trailer and ensure you have the proper driving license, it’s crucial to understand the weight limits defined by traffic laws in France 📚

• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): This term refers to the maximum authorized weight of a vehicle, including its curb weight (CW) and the weight of its load, referred to as payload (PL). The GVWR applies to both motorized vehicles (car, truck) and trailers. It is important to note that the GVWR concerns only one vehicle at a time and does not account for the combined weight of a vehicle and its trailer. The term GVWR can also be referred to by the acronym MMA (Maximum Authorized Mass).
• GCWR or GCM (Gross Combined Weight Rating or Gross Combination Mass): The GCWR represents the maximum authorized weight for a towing vehicle combined with a trailer. Exceeding the GCWR can lead to the immobilization of the setup and significant fines.

These concepts are crucial for determining the type of driver’s license required for a vehicle or a towing setup, depending on your needs. It is also important to consider the weight of your race car: it must not exceed the payload capacity of the trailer, to avoid exceeding the GVWR of the trailer or the GCWR of the entire setup.

What driving license is needed for a flatbed trailer? (for France)

To tow a car transporter trailer, you need the appropriate driving license based on the equipment's specifications:

• Category B: Allows towing a trailer with a GVWR up to 750 kg or a combined GCWR of under 3,500 kg. Suitable for transporting small vehicles like kart cross or karting.
• Category B96: Permits towing combinations with a GCWR between 3,500 kg and 4,250 kg. Perfect for small rally cars or light race cars.
• Category BE: Required for combined GCWR between 4,251 kg and 7,000 kg. Both the trailer and towing vehicle must have GVWRs of 3,500 kg max. This is suitable for most race cars.
• Category C1: Required for vehicles with a GVWR between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg. However, it does not allow for trailers over 750 kg.
• Category C1E: Allows towing vehicles with a GVWR between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg with trailers exceeding 3,500 kg, provided the total GCWR does not exceed 12,000 kg.

Categories C1 and C1E require a medical check, which must be renewed every 5 years until age 60, every 2 years until age 76, and annually beyond that 👨‍⚕️

The truck for transporting race cars

If you’re not comfortable towing a trailer or don’t have a suitable towing vehicle, opting for a truck to transport your race car can be an excellent alternative.

Renting a car transporter truck: Simple and cost-effective

A car transporter truck or tow truck can be used to transport your vehicle. However, be mindful of the maximum allowable load on trucks that can be driven with a category B license. These are generally limited to a load capacity of 850 to 1,300 kg. This might be insufficient for heavy sedans or GT cars. Additionally, ensure that the ramps used to load the vehicle are adequate, as the height and incline can pose challenges 🥵

It’s often more practical to choose a model requiring a category C1 license. This allows the transportation of heavier vehicles and additional equipment, depending on the truck’s space. These trucks often feature longer ramps, reducing the loading angle and simplifying the process ✔️

When purchasing, these vehicles are relatively expensive. Trucks drivable with a category B license cost around €35,000, while those requiring a category C1 license exceed €45,000. Used options are available from €5,000, though they often have high mileage and may require significant maintenance. Renting a truck under 3.5 tons costs approximately €100 to €200 per day, including a 150 km mileage allowance.

Semi-trailer or dedicated transporter for race cars

For transporting multiple race cars simultaneously or undertaking long journeys, you can opt for specialized vehicles such as a semi-trailer or carrier truck. These vehicles provide ample load capacity, ensuring the cars’ safety during transit and offering substantial storage space for tools and tires required for race-day operations.

Some heavy-duty vehicles are designed with additional features, such as a workshop area and living quarters, making them ideal for extended trips to circuits or competitions abroad. These amenities often include sleeping areas, kitchens, showers, lounges, and meeting rooms for briefings. Such vehicles are common at large events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans or Formula 1 Grands Prix but are also found in smaller competitions. Teams use them to transport their cars or client vehicles while offering premium services.

Manufacturers such as Procar, Astacar, Asca, A&C NOYENS, PADDOCK Distribution, Toutenkamion, and HR Multisport offer custom semi-trailers, providing turnkey solutions for teams ✔️

However, renting or purchasing such equipment is a significant investment, with costs reaching several hundred thousand euros. To operate a carrier truck, a category C license is required. For a tractor towing a semi-trailer, a category CE license is necessary.

If you plan to convert a bus or coach for competition transport, a category D license is required if the vehicle retains over nine seats. Modifications must be approved by local authorities, such as DREAL, with an isolated vehicle reception certification. Licenses like C1, C1E, and D also require periodic medical checks.

For those transforming a bus or coach into a motorhome for travel, certification via RTI from DRIEE, DREAL, or DEAL (depending on location) is necessary. The vehicle will be classified as a VASP (Specialized Motor Vehicle) with a caravan body type.

Explore our "Transport" section to find towing vehicles, trucks, semi-trailers, light-duty semi-trailers, buses, and more for sale or rent 😉

Hire a transport service

If you lack the necessary equipment to transport your race car, consider hiring a specialized transport service. These providers handle the safe delivery of your vehicle to its destination—whether a circuit, workshop, or vacation spot. The primary downside is the cost 💰

Numerous companies offer such services within France and internationally, with pricing depending on distance and vehicle type. Compare options and review insurance coverage to select the best fit for your needs.

Some companies specialize in race car transportation, while others focus on luxury, classic, or vintage cars.

Automotive transport by air or sea

For international competitions, relocations, automotive exhibitions, or buying or selling high-end vehicles overseas, transporting by air or sea may be required.

Air freight is often the preferred method for urgent shipments, especially for international races. Although more expensive—with costs ranging from €10,000 to €30,000 depending on the destination and vehicle size—it ensures fast and secure delivery. This option is particularly suited for high-value cars needing prompt arrival at international circuits ✈️🌍

Maritime transport, on the other hand, is a more cost-effective option for shipping to distant locations, such as North America, Asia, or Australia. Vehicles are securely placed in enclosed containers to protect them from weather and theft during transit. While slower, this method is ideal for planned shipments or bulk transport. Container costs for maritime shipping typically range from €2,000 to €8,000, depending on volume and destination 🚢

When organizing this type of transport, consider customs formalities, necessary insurance, and destination-specific requirements. It is often recommended to hire a specialized provider to handle these steps efficiently, ensuring a smooth and secure process.

The luxury option: Entrusting your race car's logistics to a professional

For a hassle-free experience, consider entrusting your race car’s logistics to a specialized motorsport service provider or a racing team. These professionals handle not only the transportation but also the vehicle’s maintenance during events or track days, along with storage in secure facilities. This solution is perfect for those seeking personalized service without dealing with logistics.

Many companies offer comprehensive packages, including transportation, race car preparation, and technical support at the track during events or test days. These services ensure that every aspect of the car’s operation is managed, leaving you free to focus on driving and enjoying your experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, transporting a race car requires appropriate equipment, such as an open car trailer, an enclosed trailer, or even a heavy-duty truck. Each of these solutions offers different advantages in terms of security and cost, which should be evaluated based on your specific needs. When towing a trailer or driving a heavy-duty vehicle, make sure to comply with the regulations applicable in France and across Europe.