Wheelchair Tie-Downs in Rental Vans
How wheelchair tie-downs work
A four-point tie-down system uses four straps, two at the front and two at the back of the wheelchair. They hook to the chair’s securement points and to anchors in the van floor, and retractors tighten them so the chair stays put. The passenger also wears a lap and shoulder belt attached to the van itself, separate from the wheelchair straps.
How the in-floor hook system works at pickup
Fitted to your chair
A representative at your rental location fits the tie-down system to your wheelchair, adjusting it for the width and length of your chair.
Shown how it works
They teach you, or another person traveling with you, how to use the system properly to secure the wheelchair during travel.
Used on every trip
Use the manual tie-downs and the safety belts every time the wheelchair rides in the van.
What is included with your rental
A wheelchair tie-down system comes with every wheelchair van rental from Wheelchair Getaways.
The tie-downs are manually operated. The operation is easy and efficient.
They are usable for almost all wheelchairs and scooters, and provide safety consistent with NHTSA guidelines.
At pickup, a representative fits the system to your chair and shows you how to use it, along with the safety belts.
Floor tracks, hooks and retractors
Every ramp van we rent has a standard floor track and belt system: the straps attach to a track built into the van floor, and each strap ends in a fitting such as a hook. The tie-downs are manual, and the exact hardware varies by van and location, so ask your location what the van you are renting uses.
Good to know, background only: wheelchair securement is made by several manufacturers. Q’Straint, a leading maker, offers retractors with L-track or Slide ‘N Click fittings, and automatic knobless models such as the QRT Max. Those are examples of what is on the market, not the equipment in our rental vans, which use manual tie-downs.
Safety standards
Wheelchair securement restraints are crash tested. Q’Straint, for example, states that its retractors are crash tested at 30 mph and 20 g and meet standards including SAE J2249 and ISO 10542. Ask your location about the system fitted to the van you are renting.
Before you rent
Know your wheelchair or scooter type and whether it is unusually large or heavy. Most locations can accommodate large or heavy chairs, but tell them when you book.
Ask for the tie-down and safety belt demonstration at pickup, and have the person who will travel with you there too.
Keep reading:
Wheelchair tie-down questions
Are wheelchair tie-downs included in a wheelchair van rental?
Yes. A wheelchair tie-down system is included in every wheelchair van rental from Wheelchair Getaways. You do not need to bring your own.
Can I use my power wheelchair or scooter?
The tie-downs provided are usable for almost all wheelchairs and scooters, and most locations can accommodate large or heavy chairs. For safety, tell the rental location about your chair when you book, especially if it is unusually large or heavy.
Are the tie-downs manual or automatic?
Manual. They are easy to operate, and the location will demonstrate them at pickup. Automatic systems such as EZ Lock are not commonly fitted to rental vans because they require vehicle customization.
Will someone show me how to use the tie-downs and safety belts?
Yes. At pickup, a representative at the location fits the tie-down system to the width and length of your chair, then teaches you, or another person traveling with you, how to use it to secure the wheelchair during travel. The location will also show you how to use the safety belts.
How does a four-point tie-down work?
Four straps, two at the front and two at the back of the wheelchair, hook to the chair’s securement points and to anchors in the van floor, and are tightened so the chair cannot move. The passenger also wears a lap and shoulder belt attached to the van, separate from the wheelchair straps.
Who can I call with a securement question before I book?
Call Wheelchair Getaways at 855-419-4335, or request a quote with your wheelchair details and the location will confirm.
Ready to rent a wheelchair van?
Enter your pickup location and dates to see live prices and available vans, then book online.