Traveling with mobility equipment can be extremely difficult. Wheelchairs and scooters are expensive, but necessary equipment to allow you or your loved one to be mobile. Luckily, there are plenty of external trunk lifts that you can install. Simple hitches will carry your equipment, but when bad weather comes around, there is greater concern. This expensive equipment is exposed to the elements, and while you may be able to cover them up with a tarp, there is still risk that damage will occur. A safer option would be an internal trunk lift. But how does one obtain and install one? How do you know which one is right for you?

Preparing Your Vehicle

Before even considering an internal trunk lift, you need to see if your wheelchair or scooter will even fit in your trunk. Take time to lower or remove seats and measure the space to see if this vehicle will work. You should be able to easily fit the equipment in, as there are a couple of other things that will need to fit as well.

Finding a Rig

An internal rig is built to fit into the back of your car. They can range from a simple pulley system to a sophisticated electric pulley. The way it works is you’ll hook up your device to the rig, and it will lift the device into your trunk for you. It will also safely lower your device back to the ground when you retrieve it from your trunk. Rigs can come in all sorts of sizes; some are even adjustable. Take those measurements of your trunk, along with your equipment, and find the right rig for your space. Be sure that the rig can hold the weight of your scooter or wheelchair.

Installing the Rig

If you’re handy, then you should find no problem installing the rig yourself. The lift you buy will likely have a step-by-step guide. If you do run into any issues, most companies have specialists you can call to instruct you, or come out and install the rig for you. Once installed, give it a few test runs to ensure it works properly before going out.

Conclusion

A trunk lift for a scooter or wheelchair can come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Find one that suits you or your loved one and make sure that your equipment is protected. Make your trips a little less stressful and ensure you can be mobile wherever you may go.