Christmas tree transport by car: In which case the "red flag" is necessary

Created: 02/12/2022, 09:30

By: Sebastian Oppenheimer

Once the right Christmas tree has been found, it's time to transport it.

Drivers should pay attention to a few things - fines and points in Flensburg are threatened.

As is well known, opinions differ widely when it comes to Christmas decorations: While some like it simple or even do without it altogether, others just can’t get enough of it – and even decorate their vehicle.

For many, on the other hand, the Christmas tree is indispensable.

And choosing the “right” one is a hot topic for many families.

Is a cheap spruce enough or does it have to be the more expensive Nordmann fir?

And will a one-meter tree suffice, or does the tree have to reach just under the living room ceiling?

Once these questions have all been answered, the only thing left to do is to transport the vehicle home.

But drivers should take a few things into account.

Christmas tree transport by car: In which case the "red flag" is necessary

If you don't have a trailer or a delivery van, you should probably not reach for the very largest tree, as otherwise it could be difficult to stow it away in the interior.

If you transport the tree in the trunk with the rear seats folded down, the lower end of the trunk should point towards the driver and hit directly against the backrest or that of the passenger.

If the tree protrudes from the rear of the vehicle with this transport variant, it should also be secured with tension belts or ropes.

Christmas tree transport in the car: fix the tailgate with a rope

An object may protrude up to three meters from the rear of the vehicle as long as the journey does not go further than 100 kilometers – which probably only applies to a few Christmas tree buyers.

If a longer transport is necessary, the maximum overhang may be 1.5 meters.

Important: According to the ADAC, a red flag is required as a sign if the overhang is more than one meter.

It is also important to ensure that the tree does not cover the rear lights or the license plate.

It is also advisable to fix the tailgate with a rope to prevent it from opening completely while driving.

When transporting the Christmas tree on the roof, you should put a blanket underneath to protect the paint.

(Icon image) © Cavan Images/Imago

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Christmas tree transport by car: put a blanket on the roof

If there is no space in the trunk, there is still the option of transporting the Christmas tree on the vehicle roof.

However, it is better not without the appropriate roof rails or a roof rack to which the tree can be lashed - not that it happens to you like this BMW driver.

To prevent scratching of the paint, you should put a blanket underneath.

When transporting on the roof, you should also place the tree on the vehicle with the trunk to the front – then tie it down firmly with tension belts (or with ropes if necessary).

Rubber expanders are not a solution in this case - they cannot adequately secure the heavy tree.

The automobile club ACV also points out that with a tree in your luggage, you should adjust your driving behavior and speed and refrain from abrupt driving manoeuvres.

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Christmas tree transport by car: There are fines and points in Flensburg

If the tree is transported in the dark, you need a red lamp instead of a red flag if it overhangs accordingly.

Failure to comply with the regulations for correct load securing can result in a fine of 35 euros.

If you endanger other road users with your transport, you can even be charged 60 euros. There is also a point in Flensburg.