When I first started flipping riding lawn mowers, I had to figure out how to transport a riding lawn mower without a trailer. I do have a car trailer, and that did work for moving machines around. But, it’s way overkill for transporting one riding lawn mower. I wanted to find a more efficient method for transporting a riding lawn mower without a trailer.
When to Use a Trailer
For me, I still use a trailer to transport riding lawn mower(s), but that’s usually only if I’m picking up several at once. I typically buy junk riding lawn mowers at auctions so I might win 3 or 4 at a time. On those occasions, I’ll still bring my trailer.
Since the deck of the trailer is 16’ x 8’, I can comfortably fit 4 average sized riding lawn mowers on it. If I’m just moving one machine, then I will opt for the second method.
Tools Needed (Commissions Earned)
How to Transport a Riding Lawn Mower Without a Trailer
I am so incredibly pleased that I finally invested in a set of good ramps for my pickup truck. This allows me to load a riding lawn mower directly into the back of my truck. Now, I can transport a riding lawn mower without a trailer. Even better, I can disconnect the trailer and load one into the back of the truck, and then load several more onto the trailer.
Having ramps for my truck maximizes my efficiency and allows me to haul just about as many machines as my wife is comfortable with me getting at a time.
How to Load a Riding Lawn Mower Into a Truck
Depending on the size of the riding lawn mower that you’re loading, you might be able to manually push it up the ramp. If you’re pushing it, make sure that you have it in neutral. Also be sure to disengage the transmission lock if it’s a hydrostatic.
If the machine is running, you can easily drive it up the ramp. Whether you are pushing or driving the machine, it’s helpful to have the ramps loading from a slightly inclined position into the back of the truck. This helps clear the tailgate as the machine is going up.
This option works well if the machine is small or in running condition. If you can drive it right up the ramps then there’s no problem. However, most machines will be too heavy to manually push up the ramps.
A Better Option
An even safer option is to install a winch in the back of your truck. It’s not as complicated as you might think. And, if you use a portable jumper pack you can supply power directly to the winch as well.
While you’re at it, use the jumper pack’s air compressor to inflate those flat tires too. It’ll roll much easier that way!
This allows you to use the winch for loading (and unloading) the machine while you can stand off to the side and steer.
I’m super glad that I figured out how to transport a riding lawn mower without a trailer. Even though I still use a trailer sometimes, this last method is my go-to option 90% of the time.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.