If you enjoy working on cars — whether in your garage on weekends or at a professional shop you’ve most likely wondered: What’s the best and safest method for lifting my car? 

Facts are, cars can be pretty heavy. They are huge machines made up of metal, plastic, and tough bolts. But fortunately, there is something promising as well. Moving and lifting them doesn’t have to feel like you’re trying to bench press a truck. Having the right equipment and knowing a few safety measures makes the process easy.

What do the car mechanics use to lift vehicles using just one hand (or near enough)? The solution is to use car lifts. With these, repairing a car now takes less effort, is safer, and much more comfortable for your back. You don’t necessarily have to work in a car service center to appreciate the tool. Because of these improved tools, home garages are becoming more advanced than before. 

We’re gonna break it down — no jargon, no tech-overload — just straight-up real talk on how to move and lift cars the smart way. Let’s dive in.

The Basics: Safety First, Always

Before you start lifting, pause to take a breath. Safety must always be followed, no exceptions. A slip or trip can make the car hurt you severely. So, focus on these basics as you begin.

• Ensure that the ground you work on is flat and solid (not gravel or a sloped driveway).

• Use wheel chocks to block the tires that stay on the ground.

• Always use jack stands or a car lift in addition to a jack.

• Don’t rush. Whenever something feels off, pause to review it carefully.

10 extra minutes could protect you from danger. Seriously.

Selecting the Right Tools

You’ve got a few options when it comes to lifting and moving vehicles. Depending on how and what you work with, each type has its benefits and drawbacks.

Jack Stands & Floor Jacks

This is the standard home-garage move. Consider investing in a heavy-duty hydraulic floor jack as well as reliable jack stands. Make certain that the jack you use can handle the load of your car. Lifting points matter — check your owner’s manual for where to lift safely.

Car Lifts

Okay, now you’re getting it. Truly independent access to your vehicle’s underbelly can be achieved with car lifts alone. Some lifts are designed as 2-post, 4-post, or scissor types, while others are made portable for compact garages. Recent models have new features like safety locks, quick-lift operations, and Bluetooth controls. We’re definitely experiencing the future now.

Moving Cars Without Starting Them

Sometimes you need to move a car that won’t start. Maybe it’s dead, stuck, or in the way. This is where tools like Car Pusher come into play.

Think of it as the ultimate push-assist device. A CarPusher, e.g., Car Caddy, is a battery-powered cart designed to move heavy vehicles in tight spaces. It hooks onto the frame or wheels and lets one person push a car with zero sweat. These are big in dealerships, warehouses, and even private collections where rolling out a car for service or detailing has to be fast, clean, and efficient.

It’s like power steering — but for your entire garage.

Don’t Forget Ground Clearance

A lot of new cars (especially sports cars and EVs) sit super low. That means even your jack might not fit underneath. Here’s how to work around it:

• Use low-profile jacks designed for cars with minimal clearance.

• Drive the car onto ramps or wood planks to get that extra inch or two before jacking.

• Consider a quick-lift style car lift with a slim entry profile.

Whatever you do, don’t wedge or jam a jack in there. You could crack something expensive or cause a dangerous slip.

Maintenance While You’re Up There

Once the car’s lifted safely, make the most of it. Do a quick safety check:

• Look for any leaks — oil, coolant, brake fluid.

• Check tire wear from underneath (inside edges are often hidden).

• Inspect your exhaust and suspension for rust or damage.

• Give everything a good shake — loose parts should be easy to spot now.

Lifting isn’t just about access — it’s about visibility. You see stuff you’d never catch from above.

Pro Tips to Make It Effortless

Here are a few extra hacks to make moving and lifting cars easier:

• Keep a set of gloves and shop towels nearby. Greasy tools = dropped tools.

• Use magnetic trays to hold bolts and nuts — you’ll thank yourself later.

• Label everything. If you remove a bolt, tag it, or take a photo.

• Invest in LED work lights that clip to the underside of the car.

Small upgrades, big difference.

Final Word

Lifting and moving cars doesn’t have to be risky or exhausting. With smart tools, plus a bit of know-how, you can make your garage life way easier — and a lot safer. Whether you’re rotating tires, inspecting brakes, or swapping a transmission, the right setup turns a tough job into a smooth one.

So stop wrestling your car like it’s a wild animal. Get the right gear. Take your time. And enjoy the process. Because when you lift smart, you wrench smart.