How to Transport Your Mobility Scooter

Finding out how to transport a mobility scooter is one of the first tasks on the "to-do" list when considering the purchase of a mobility device. Whereas manual wheelchairs can simply be folded up and slipped into a wheelchair travel bag for transport, mobility scooters tend to be both bulkier and heavier. Some models may not fit in the storage space of your car.

Basic Steps to Transport a Mobility Scooter Safely

Once you have prepared your mobility scooter, follow these steps to ensure safe transport: 

1. Check your scooter’s total weight (including the battery).

2. Check your vehicle’s cargo space and hitch rating.

3. Decide if you’ll transport it assembled or disassembled.

4. Choose between a ramp, a lift, a carrier, or public transport.

5. Secure the scooter properly before driving.

Top 5 Mobility Scooter Transportation Options

Mobility scooter transportation options depend on your needs, your vehicle's capacities, and the types of transport available to you. The table below summarizes the main mobility scooter transportation options, along with their features and characteristics, to help you make the best choice.

Transport Method	Best For...	Effort Level	Vehicle Capacity	Est. Cost
Disassembly	Occasional travel	High (Lifting required)	Trunk/Backseat	$0 (Built-in)
Ramp	Vans/SUVs	Medium (Guiding scooter)	Cargo area	$150 – $800
Hitch Carrier	Any vehicle with a hitch	Low (External)	Exterior hitch	$200 – $600
Vehicle Lift	Daily/Long-term use	Lowest (Automated)	Internal or external	$1,500 – $4,500
Public Transit	Urban commuters	Low (Driver assists)	Bus/Train bay	Standard fare

1. Mobility Scooters That Disassemble for Travel

Many mobility scooter models fold up or can be taken apart to fit in the trunk or on the back seat of a regular car. The standard, mid-level, and top-tier rental mobility scooters at Mobility Plus Colorado in Denver and Boulder, for example, all disassemble so that the heaviest part weighs no more than 57 lb for the most heavy-duty model.

While folding and disassemble-style mobility scooters may not offer all the bells and whistles of a customized mobility scooter, they offer a practical option for people with limited space in their vehicle who only need the device for a short time. Common examples include vacations or while recovering from an illness or surgery. Not needing specialized transportation equipment also reduces the overall cost of a mobility scooter.

2. Mobility Scooter Ramp

The second most cost-effective option for transporting a mobility scooter by car is a mobility scooter ramp. This folding ramp is installed in the vehicle's rear so that a mobility scooter or wheelchair user can simply drive up the ramp and into the back of a full-size van or modified minivan.

For long-term use, many families who buy a mobility scooter opt for an automatic ramp that folds out with the push of a button and returns to its place without anyone having to lift it manually. Inside the vehicle, the passenger then just needs to apply the brakes and secure themselves with manual tie-downs, retractable tie-downs, or a wheelchair/mobility scooter docking system.

3. Mobility Scooter Carrier

If there isn't enough storage space inside the vehicle's cargo area for a fully assembled mobility scooter, a mobility scooter carrier can be used instead. This is like a bicycle rack, except you hitch a wheelchair or a mobility scooter to it. In wet weather, you may need to cover the device with a tarp or pull the scooter along in a covered trailer attached to the car's trailer hitch.

The advantage of a mobility scooter carrier is that it doesn't take up any space inside the vehicle, and the scooter can remain fully assembled. This is a great option for mid-sized or high-performance scooters. If you are curious about the speed capabilities of these larger models, see our guide on how fast mobility scooters go.

4. Wheelchair Lifts

Wheelchair lifts, or vehicle lifts, are a popular option for people who need to transport a mobility scooter long-term and have enough space in the cargo area to transport it fully assembled. While a ramp might be suitable for a modified minivan with a lowered floor, lift platforms work with vans of any height and can be installed on the side, the rear, or under the vehicle to keep more space free inside the car.

For a mobility scooter, you would generally be looking at a dual-arm lift platform rather than a scissors-style lift platform, as the former has enough strength to lift even heavy-duty mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs with the passenger seated on the device. Dual-arm lift platforms are usually stored inside the vehicle and can usually be installed quickly, sometimes in as little as three hours.

5. Public Transport

For those without a car of their own, public transit offers an easy way to transport a mobility scooter from place to place, provided the starting point and destination are relatively close to a bus route. Communicate to the driver that you want to board with your mobility scooter so they can position the ramp. Once boarded, simply apply the brakes and hold on to a grab rail for added security while the bus or train is in motion. 

According to ADA-DOT regulations, every train and bus company must allow mobility scooter and electric wheelchair users to board if there is adequate space. Furthermore, public transport personnel must be trained to use accessibility equipment and accommodate different types of mobility devices. Securement systems may or may not be provided. If they are, you can ask for your mobility scooter to be secured.

Air Transport: Flying With Your Mobility Scooter

Flying with your mobility scooter is feasible, but it requires following specific rules and requirements regarding your equipment. If you have to travel to a faraway destination, flying may be the best option. Knowing what to expect will make your flight experience much smoother. 

Airlines must be notified at least 48 hours before your flight to ensure they are prepared to receive your scooter. Most airlines will allow you to “gate-check” your mobility scooter for free, meaning you can ride it until you reach the cabin door.

• Battery Types: There are strict FAA/TSA regulations regarding batteries. Non-spillable lead-acid (SLA) batteries are generally cleared for gate-check, but lithium-ion batteries have strict limits based on Watt-hours.

• Gate-Check Process: At the gate, remove any removable additions (seat, basket, joystick) and protect the tiller with bubble wrap. Also, ensure that your vehicle is in “freewheel mode” so that baggage handlers can wheel it around.

Tip: Always contact the airline in advance to provide details of your mobility device and ensure you have all the information regarding regulations.

Preparing Your Mobility Scooter for Transport

Proper pre-transport preparations prevent accidents and unwanted damage to your device. Make sure you have done the following before going anywhere:

• Turn off your scooter and remove the key.

• Remove any loose items (such as baskets, oxygen tank holders, or cell phone mounts).

• Check the battery (if disassembly is necessary, disconnect the battery pack).

• Fold or lower the tiller (try to make it as small as possible).

• Engage the freewheel. If pushing the scooter up a ramp, the freewheel lever must be disengaged. Be sure to re-engage it once loaded.

Checking the Mobility Scooter After Transport

Transporting your mobility scooter may cause components to become loose. Before getting back on and driving off, perform the following security checks to ensure everything is in place:

1. Check the battery.

2. Check the tiller.

3. Check the tires.

4. Verify that there isn’t any debris lodged in joints, axles, etc.

Transporting a Mobility Scooter FAQ

Can I transport a mobility scooter in a car?

Yes. If the scooter disassembles, it should fit in a standard-sized trunk. For larger scooter models, you may need a larger car, such as a van, or an external hitch. To compare mobility scooter options, see our guide on how to choose a mobility scooter.

Do I need a trailer for a mobility scooter?

A trailer is not usually necessary for a mobility scooter. Models that cannot be folded to fit in the trunk are often transported using a hitch-mounted carrier.

Can I use a hitch carrier with any vehicle?

Not always. You must be sure that your vehicle’s tongue weight capacity (the weight a hitch can support) is sufficient to carry the weight of both the scooter and the carrier. These are usually class II and class III hitches.

How can I safely transport my scooter in the rain?

If you are using an external carrier, use a heavy-duty fitted waterproof tarp. Watch out for “water-resistant” covers that may not offer sufficient protection during harsher weather or on the highway.

Can I stay seated on the scooter during a lift?

Generally no. Standard home vehicle lifts are not adapted for “occupied” use. Modified paratransit vans sometimes have a lift rated for occupied use, allowing you to remain seated during the lift.

Mobility Scooter Transport Is Within Reach

Mobility scooters (like electric wheelchairs) take a little forward-planning to incorporate into your lifestyle. But with the right equipment and a little patience, you'll soon be scooting around everywhere you want to go.

If you are considering a mobility scooter purchase or rental, a mobility equipment professional in Denver, Boulder, or a nearby city will explain the available makes, models, and options, as well as how to transport a mobility scooter from place to place. Once you’ve made your choice, you can go ahead with full confidence that the device will give you the independence and freedom you need.