We know the struggle—trying to fit a durable, full-size dog crate into a compact car can feel like a game of Tetris. As part of the Impact Dog Crates team, I’ve helped plenty of dog parents navigate tight spaces without compromising their pup’s comfort or safety.
Whether you drive a hatchback, sedan, or a small crossover, there is a way to make it work. Below, I’ll walk you through real-world fit tips and setup hacks to get your Impact crate road-ready, no matter how tight the squeeze.
Measuring & Planning
Before you choose a crate or attempt to wedge one in, let’s start with the right measurements. A few minutes with a tape measure can save hours of frustration.
Start by clearing out your trunk or backseat. If your seats fold down, do that too. Then, measure the usable space—height, width, and depth—from the floor to the ceiling, and between any wheel wells or seat brackets.
Here’s a quick checklist of what you must measure:
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Trunk or cargo area floor width (between wheel wells)
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Depth from back of rear seats to hatch door (or backseat cushion to front seat)
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Vertical clearance from floor to ceiling
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Rear door or hatch opening size
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Seatback clearance if folding them down
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Bumper lip height or any cargo sill step
Some customers find it helpful to use painter’s tape or cardboard to mock up the crate footprint before buying.
Crate Choice & Configuration
Not all crates are equal when it comes to tight spaces—and we’ve designed a few options specifically with small vehicles in mind.
Our Collapsible Dog Crate is a customer favorite for this reason. It folds down to just 8 inches tall when collapsed and can be assembled inside your car if you don’t have the clearance to maneuver a fully built crate.
For a more permanent solution, our Stationary Crate works great if your backseat folds down or your trunk has depth. Just keep in mind it arrives fully assembled, so you’ll need the clearance to get it in.
Tips for flexible setup:
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Fold down your backseats completely—this usually adds extra inches of install depth.
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In SUVs, use the optional rear airline rail to help stabilize the crate against the seatback.
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For sedans, a side-door configuration may offer easier loading/unloading if the back opening is too tight.
Installation Tricks
Once you’ve picked your crate, it’s time to get clever with how you install it. A few small tweaks can make a big difference in security and ease of access.
Here are a few setup hacks we recommend:
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Use ratchet straps or bungee cords threaded through the crate’s vent holes and looped to your car’s cargo hooks for extra stability.
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Lay a non-slip mat or rubber liner under the crate floor to reduce sliding on sharp turns or sudden stops.
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Add a side-door panel to allow access from a different angle—perfect for side-loading in small hatchbacks or wagons.
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If you're solo, collapse the crate first and assemble it inside the car. Two people make the install easier, but it’s doable alone with a bit of patience.
Be sure the crate is flush against the backseat or cargo area wall and doesn’t wobble when nudged.
Safety & Comfort Hacks
Once the crate is in position, it’s important to make sure your dog is safe and comfortable during every drive—whether it’s a five-minute grocery run or a road trip.
Here are a few of the tips I use:
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Always secure the crate using seat belts or cargo hooks. Sudden stops or accidents can turn unsecured crates into projectiles.
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Add our Orthopedic Crate Pad to help cushion your dog from bumpy roads.
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Test stability before the first ride: tug the crate from side to side and forward to make sure nothing shifts.
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Keep windows cracked or use sunshades to reduce cabin temperature if you’ll be parked for a few minutes.
Bonus tip: For reactive or anxious dogs, tossing a familiar-smelling blanket over part of the crate helps create a cozy, den-like feel.
Fitting an Impact crate into a small car takes a little measuring, a little adjusting, and the right setup strategy—but it’s absolutely doable. Our collapsible design, accessory options, and sturdy builds make us a go-to for dog parents on the move.
To recap:
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Measure everything—don’t forget seatback angles and door openings.
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Choose a collapsible or side-door crate for easier installation.
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Use straps, mats, and side-door hacks to anchor and access your crate.
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Prioritize seatbelt safety and add comfort extras for your pup’s ride.
Ready to fit your Impact crate in any ride? Take the Crate Quiz to find your perfect match—we’ll walk you through size, style, and car compatibility in just a few clicks.
