A car boot hoist is a device installed in your car’s boot that helps you load and store mobility equipment like wheelchairs, mobility scooters or rollators without having to struggle by lifting it in manually. They are a fantastic option for anyone who needs 100% independence, and who regularly uses both a car and a mobility aid, but lacks the strength or dexterity to lift it in and out of the boot.
Types of car boot hoists
There are essentially three types of hoist:
- Manual hoists: These are operated by hand, usually with some kind of handle that you wind round. They have a pulley system, so you’re not actually lifting the weight yourself, but they still do require some physical effort to operate, and you might be limited by the weight of your aid. On the plus side, they’re probably the cheapest option.
- Electric car boot hoists: These hoists use your car’s battery and/or a separate rechargeable power pack to lift the aid in and out at the touch of a button. They can typically handle heavier loads than manual versions, and are a lot less effort to use. Electric hoists come in a range of powers, with the smallest handling about 40kg, and the largest able to lift 200kg.
- Platform hoists: Instead of hooking your scooter or wheelchair onto a cable, you drive it onto a platform that goes down to ground level. The unit will then lift the aid into the boot. Reverse the procedure to get it out.
Key factors to consider
Generally speaking, the bigger your car boot is, the easier it will be to fit a hoist. That said, it’s surprising how small a boot can be while still accommodating the hoist and your mobility aid. Even hatchbacks can use them, but it will of course depend on the size of the mobility aid when folded, and you might sometimes need to fold the back seats down. The main things you need to consider are:
- Equipment dimensions: Measure your mobility aid’s length, width and height when folded. The boot space needs this space plus extra space for manoeuvre, plus the space for the hoist itself.
- Weight capacity: Determine the exact weight of your mobility equipment, including batteries. Ideally, you should choose a hoist with at least 20% more capacity than your equipment’s weight.
- Vehicle compatibility: Not all hoists fit every vehicle. Consider your car’s boot height, depth, and loading lip height. A fitter will be able to tell you which hoists can be installed in your model of car.
- Frequency of use: If you use your mobility equipment daily, an electric hoist will save you a lot of time and energy. For occasional use, a cheaper manual system might suffice.
- Your physical capabilities: Manual hoists do require some physical effort and coordination, while electric systems work via simple push-button controls.
- Funding and support: Check if you qualify for government grants or charitable funding to help you pay for the hoist.
Installation
Most hoists need professional installation to ensure safety. Installation might be part of the price for a given supplier, but it might also be extra, so make sure when you buy. Some installations may require drilling into your vehicle’s floor or internal frame, or there could be other modifications to the boot area. This can affect your vehicle’s warranty and resale value, and will no doubt require special permission if you lease your car. Some hoists are temporary and removable without leaving a trace, but they tend to have smaller weight capacities.
Checking for compatibility
With hundreds of car models and dozens of hoists available, you’ll need to know whether a specific hoist will fit in your car. Sometimes, this can be done online, but other times, it’s best to have someone visit you at home and properly examine your car to let you know what devices are possible. You can find more information about AutoChair car boot hoists here, or call 0800 009 2348 to arrange a visit from a professional installer.
