Taking cargo bike on vacation: transporting with car or trailer

You're used to the convenience of your cargo bike. Every day you take the kids to school, run errands or take a ride around the neighborhood. Then summer vacation arrives and the question arises: can I take my cargo bike with me on vacation? The answer is yes, because with the right preparation, you just take it with you.

Taking a cargo bike on vacation offers many advantages. You don't have to rent a bike at your destination and the children sit in their familiar cargo box. This way you make trips just like you are used to at home. In this article you can read exactly how to transport your cargo bike safely to your vacation destination, what options you have and what to pay attention to with the battery.

1. Can a cargo bike go on a regular bike rack? 
2. So what options do you have? 
3. Shipping cargo bike in a van or large car 
4. Transporting cargo bike on a trailer 
5. Bakfiets to be transported by a transport company 
6. The battery: special attention required 
7. Checklist: preparing cargo bike for transport 
8. Bakfiets on vacation: where can you go? 
9. Rules abroad 
10. Alternative: cargo bike rental at your destination 
11. The STOER CargoX: ideal for vacation adventures 
12. Frequently Asked Questions

This is the first question many parents ask. The short answer: no. An ordinary bike rack is not suitable for a cargo bike. There are several reasons for this.

A cargo bike is much longer than a normal bicycle. Most cargo bikes measure between 2 and 2.6 meters. An ordinary bike carrier simply cannot handle this. Weight is also an issue, as an electric cargo bike easily weighs 50 to 70 pounds. Regular bike carriers are designed for bikes up to 25 to 30 kilograms.

A roof rack is also not an option. Those are meant for light bikes up to about 20 pounds. Apart from the weight, it is practically impossible to lift a heavy cargo bike onto the roof of your car. You then also run the risk of damage to your car or the cargo bike. Want to know more about safe transportation of your family? Then read our blog on the safest cargo bike for families.

Fortunately, there are other ways to make taking your cargo bike on vacation possible. The three most common methods are transportation in a van or large car, transportation on a trailer and having it delivered by a transport company. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, and below we discuss them all in detail.

Do you have access to a van or large van? Then this is often the easiest solution. You load the cargo bike directly and drive to your vacation destination.

What dimensions do you need?

For a two-wheeled cargo bike, you need at least a cargo space 220 cm long, 75 cm wide and 110 cm high. For a three-wheeled cargo bike, the width should be at least 100 cm. Check the exact dimensions of your cargo bike in advance. The STOER CargoX has dimensions of 260 cm in length and 70 cm in width. Keep that in mind when choosing your means of transportation.

Please note that on some cars, the tailgate cannot be closed all the way when the cargo bike is in it. This is allowed according to the rules of the central government, but be sure to properly mark protruding cargo.

Tips for safe loading

Follow these steps for safe transportation:

• Remove the battery from the cargo bike and transport it separately
• Protect the bin and frame with moving blankets or bubble wrap
• Secure the cargo bike with straps so it cannot shift
• Distribute the weight well across the cargo area
• Disassemble loose parts such as displays or accessories

"We always recommend transporting the battery separately," says Thomas of STOER Bikes. "That way you prevent damage from vibration and keep the battery at a stable temperature."

Want to know more about batteries and their lifespan? Then read our blog on how long the battery of an electric fatbike lasts.

No big car available? Then a trailer is an excellent alternative. You can use an ordinary flatbed trailer or a special cargo bike trailer.

What type of trailer is suitable?

An open flatbed trailer with dimensions of at least 260 x 80 cm works well for most cargo bikes. Special cargo bike trailers often come with ramps and mounting hardware. This makes loading easier and safer.

When choosing a trailer, pay attention to these points:

• Payload must be at least 100 kg (cargo bike plus any accessories)
• The width should fit your cargo bike
• Loading ramps make loading much easier
• Attachment points for lashing straps are indispensable

Driving license and rules for trailers

There are specific rules for driving with a trailer. With an ordinary B license, you may pull a trailer up to 750 kg. Is the trailer heavier? Then you may still drive with driving license B, as long as the total weight of car plus trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg.

For heavier combinations, you need a BE license. This is usually not applicable when transporting a cargo bike, unless you are using a very heavy trailer. ANWB has comprehensive information on driver's license categories.

Remember:

• A white license plate with the registration number of your car
• Working lights on the trailer
• Cover the load well with a net or tarp

Maximum speed with trailer

On the highway, you may drive a maximum of 90 km/h with a trailer. Outside built-up areas it is 80 km/h. Keep this in mind when planning your travel time, because your travel time can increase considerably for longer distances.

Trailer rental: costs and options

Renting a trailer is often more economical than buying one. The average rental price is around 25 euros per day. For a longer vacation, you usually get a discount on the daily price.

You can rent a trailer from local rental agencies, hardware stores, car rental agencies and online platforms. During peak season, book well in advance, as trailers are popular and quickly rented out.

Want to know more about the cost of electric bikes? Then read our blog on the power consumption of an e-bike.

Don't want to drive yourself with a trailer? Then you can have your cargo bike delivered by a transport company. This is handy if you are going on vacation far away or if you don't have a tow bar.

The cost of professional transport ranges between 50 and 150 euros, depending on the distance. Some services allow you to have the cargo bike picked up and delivered to your vacation address. This gives you maximum flexibility without the hassle.

Benefits of professional transportation include:

• No hassle with trailer or van
• Experienced drivers know how to safely transport a cargo bike
• Often insured against damage during transport

The battery of your electric cargo bike deserves extra attention during transport. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to extreme temperatures and can be damaged by vibrations. Take this seriously, as a damaged battery can be dangerous.

Tips for battery transportation

Always remove the battery from the cargo bike before riding. Transport the battery in the car, not on the trailer. Never leave the battery in a hot car and protect the contact points with tape. Store the battery pack at room temperature.

The STOER CargoX's 960Wh battery is removable, making transportation easier. Take the battery inside during breaks on the road. This keeps the battery in optimal condition. Want to know all about fatbike batteries? Then read our extensive blog on fatbike batteries.

Battery on the plane: you can't do that

Going on vacation by plane and want to have your cargo bike shipped? Then pay attention to the rules for lithium batteries. Large e-bike batteries are generally not allowed on airplanes. Most e-bike batteries have a capacity of more than 100Wh, which exceeds the limit for air travel.

For air travel, you have to ship the cargo bike without a battery and arrange for a compatible battery locally. This is often not practical, so transportation by road is usually the better option.

Before you leave, run through this checklist:

• Battery removed and packed separately
• Display and loose accessories disassembled
• Properly inflated tires
• Frame and bin protected with blankets or bubble wrap
• Lashing straps ready for attachment
• Dimensions of cargo bike and means of transportation checked
• License plate and lights checked (for trailer)
• Insurance checked for coverage during transport

With this checklist, you'll be well prepared to take your cargo bike on vacation without a hitch.

With your cargo bike on vacation, you can take fantastic trips. Popular destinations for families with a cargo bike are the Dutch and Belgian coast, the Limburg hills, the German Eifel, Danish bike trails and French campsites with cycling facilities.

The CargoX's thick fatbike tires make it suitable for a variety of terrains. From beach paths to forest trails, your kids will be comfortable in the cargo box while you enjoy the scenery. Thanks to the wide tires, you're less likely to sink into loose sand or bumpy trails. Learn more about the CargoX's capabilities in our comprehensive guide.

Are you going abroad by car and trailer? Then check the traffic regulations of your destination in advance. Some points of interest:

• Germany: The car including bike carrier must not be wider than 2.55 meters
• Italy: A reflective sign is required if the load protrudes from the sides
• France: Protruding cargo should be marked with a red and white sign
• Spain: Maximum speed with trailer is 80 km/h on highways

Also inquire about speed limits and any toll exemptions for vehicles with trailers. ANWB has up-to-date information on traffic regulations abroad.

Is transporting your own cargo bike too cumbersome? Then consider renting a cargo bike locally. More and more vacation destinations are offering this option.

The disadvantage is that your children have to get used to a different cargo bike. They are not in their familiar cargo box and the bike rides differently than they are used to. Still, for shorter vacations, renting can be a practical solution. You save time and effort, and you don't have to worry about transportation.

The STOER CargoX is specially designed for families who like to go on adventures. With its wide fatbike tires, powerful 960Wh battery and stable construction, this cargo bike is perfect for vacation use. The cargo box offers space for 2 to 4 children, depending on their age.

Thanks to the Gates CDX belt drive, you don't have to worry about maintenance during your vacation. No chains that can rust or need lubrication. Also, the Tektro hydraulic brakes with integrated brake lights ensure safety in any situation.

"Many of our customers take their CargoX on vacation," says Joeri of STOER Bikes. "The thick tires make it ideal for beach paths and dirt roads. And the large battery ensures that you can take long trips without recharging."

Want to try out the CargoX? Then schedule a test drive at one of our dealers.

Can I transport my cargo bike on a regular bike rack?
No, that is not possible. Cargo bikes are too long and heavy for regular bike carriers. Use a trailer, van or have the cargo bike transported professionally.

What driver's license do I need for a cargo bike trailer?
In most cases, an ordinary B driving license is sufficient. This applies as long as the trailer weighs no more than 750 kg or the total weight of car plus trailer remains under 3,500 kg.

Can the battery of my cargo bike go on an airplane?
No, large lithium batteries like those found in e-bikes are not allowed on airplanes. The capacity exceeds the allowed limit of 100Wh for personal electronics.

What does it cost to have a cargo bike transported?
Professional transport costs an average of 50 to 150 euros, depending on the distance. Renting a trailer costs about 25 euros per day.

How do I protect my cargo bike during transport?
Remove the battery and loose parts. Protect the frame and cargo box with blankets or bubble wrap. Secure the cargo bike securely with straps and distribute the weight evenly.

Can I ride my cargo bike on the beach?
Thick fatbike tires allow you to ride well over beach sand. The wide tires on cargo bikes like the CargoX offer extra grip and are less likely to sink in loose sand.

How long does it take to load a cargo bike into a van?
Allow 15 to 30 minutes for safely loading, securing and protecting your cargo bike. Take the time to do everything right, as haste often leads to damage.

How many miles can I drive with the STOER CargoX on vacation?
The CargoX's 960Wh battery allows you to ride 60 to 100 kilometers on one charge, depending on the terrain and load. More than enough for daily vacation trips.