Think loading a ride-on mower into your ute is easy?
One wrong ramp choice or sloppy setup can mean a cracked mower deck, a damaged tray — or worse, an injury.
In this guide, you’ll get:
- Step-by-step loading instructions for maximum safety
- Expert ramp selection advice so you get the right length, style, and capacity
- Pro tips to avoid slips, tipping, or equipment damage
- Top ramp recommendations trusted by tradies, landscapers, and homeowners
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to load your mower safely, securely, and without stress.
Common Mower Loading Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Every year, mowers tip, slide, or scrape during loading, often because of:
- Ramps that are too short, creating unsafe angles
- Wet, muddy, or unstable ground
- Skipping tie-downs or rushing the process
These mistakes can cause:
- Bent mower decks or cracked frames
- Scratches or dents on your ute
-
Injuries from slips, falls, or being struck by moving equipment
💡 Good news: Every one of these risks is preventable with the right ramp and loading technique.
Choosing the Right Ramp for Your Mower & Ute
The right ramp makes all the difference between a safe, easy load and a risky one. Here’s what to look at before you buy.
1. Get the Ramp Length Right
We are ramp experts. Our team can help you determine the right length for your mower and ute. If you are unsure, just chat with us, and we'll guide you through finding the right size.
Once you’ve got the right length, the next step is choosing your ramp style (full-width or dual runner), surface type (rung or plate), and any extra safety features that make loading easier and safer for your setup.
2. Choose the Right Ramp Style
Arched Ramps
- Give you extra clearance under the mower, reducing the risk of “bottoming out”
- Ideal for ride-on mowers with low decks
Straight Ramps
- Lighter and easier to move around
- Best for mowers with good ground clearance or when loading at a shallow angle
3. Check the Weight Capacity
Add up the total weight of your mower, fuel, and any attachments — and include your weight if you’ll be riding it up. Choose a ramp that can handle more than your total figure for extra safety.
4. Look for Safety Features
A few smart features can make loading much safer:
- Non-slip surfaces for better traction in wet or muddy conditions
- Raised edge rails to keep the mower wheels on track
- Secure attachment points or locking pins to stop ramps slipping
If you’re not sure which ramp is right for your setup, we can help you find a safe, practical match for your mower, ute height, and budget.
Preparing Your Ute and Loading Area
A safe load starts with the right setup. Before the mower even touches the ramps:
1. Park on solid, level ground.
2. Position the ramps securely.
3. Clear the path.
Step-by-Step Guide to Loading a Mower into a Ute
Once your ramps, ute, and mower are ready to go, follow these steps to keep the process smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Step 1. Park and Prepare
- Choose a solid, level surface; if possible, park facing a gentle uphill slope to reduce ramp angle and make loading easier
- Engage the handbrake and turn off the engine
Step 2. Secure the Ramps
- Lay the ramps so they’re perfectly aligned with your mower’s wheels
- Attach them firmly using locking pins, built-in connectors, or tie-down straps
- If loading into a ute tray, secure straps to fixed points like the tow bar or tie-downs; for trailers, use the safety chain loops
- Double-check that both ramps are stable before moving on
Step 3. Load the Mower
- Position the mower square to the ramps — even a slight angle can cause the wheels to slip off
- If your mower has a low deck or a tendency to lift at the front, reverse it up the ramps to keep the centre of gravity low
- Use low gear and never stop halfway
⚠️ If you lose stability, reverse down slowly and reset.
Step 4. Secure for Transport
- Once the mower is fully in the tray, turn off the engine and engage the parking brake
- Chock the wheels, then use heavy-duty ratchet straps in an X-pattern
- Recheck straps after 15-20 minutes on the road.
Recommended Ramps for Mower Loading
Heeve 2.3 m × 1.3‑Tonne Aluminium Curved Folding Ramps (pair)
Tough as they come — these curved, folding ramps support up to 1.36 tonnes per pair, handle low-clearance ride-on mowers easily, and fold down for compact storage. They include locking pins or a reinforced middle for maximum stability.
Sureweld 2.1m x 450kg Curved Foldable Aluminium Loading Ramps, Pair
Lightweight and easy to handle, these Australian-made curved ramps are purpose-built for mowers. The gentle curve provides extra clearance for mower decks, while the foldable design makes transport and storage simple. Rated to 450kg per pair, they’re ideal for ride-on and zero-turn mowers.
Oz 1.6‑Tonne 2.4 m × 370 mm Folding Aluminium Ramps
A smart choice for tradies and landscapers who need serious capacity on a tighter budget. These aluminium ramps are rated for 1.6 tonnes per pair. They fold neatly for storage and come with locking hooks for secure placement. Great for mowers, ATVs, and other heavy equipment.
Conclusion
Loading your mower doesn’t need to be risky. With the right ramp, a stable setup, and smart safety steps, you can protect your equipment, your ute, and yourself every time.
Find your perfect ramp now — use our Ramp Calculator or speak to our experts today for a ramp that’s a perfect fit for your ute and mower.
