When you're traveling with your dog, safety should never take a back seat. Even the strongest crate—like the ones we build at Impact—can shift in your vehicle if it’s not properly anchored. That movement can be unsettling for your dog and even dangerous in the event of a sudden stop.
Fortunately, you don’t need a fancy kit to make your crate road-ready. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use your Impact crate’s built-in tie-down bars with your own heavy-duty straps to keep things secure, stable, and stress-free every time you hit the road.
Why Tethering Matters
Unsecured crates can become dangerous projectiles in a fast brake or a collision. While our crates are built from solid aluminum and designed to withstand serious impact, proper tethering ensures the crate itself doesn’t shift or tip, especially during tight turns or sudden stops.
Here’s why tethering matters:
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A properly secured crate reduces anxiety by minimizing jostling and movement.
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Your dog stays in place, even during abrupt braking or acceleration.
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You prevent the crate from sliding into passengers, windows, or other gear.
Our built-in tie-down bars and carry handles are designed with this use in mind, so you can anchor your crate with total confidence.
What You’ll Need to Secure Your Crate
While we don’t sell a pre-packed tethering kit, it’s simple to assemble what you need using high-quality gear and your crate’s built-in features. Here’s what we recommend:
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Heavy-duty ratchet straps or tie-down straps
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Carabiner clips or strong, quick-release buckles
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Vehicle tie-down points (D-rings, seat anchors, or cargo loops)
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Optional: soft padding between crate and vehicle floor (to reduce vibration)
No modifications are needed—our crates are already built for this.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
1. Choose the Right Spot in Your Vehicle
Look for a flat, stable surface in your cargo area or back seat. Ideally, your crate should rest flush against the back of a seat or a vehicle wall to minimize movement. Always double-check that your crate fits without blocking any air vents or windows.
2. Locate the Tie-Down Bars or Handles
Every stationary and collapsible Impact crate comes with integrated tie-down bars or reinforced carry handles. These are weight-tested anchor points you can thread your straps through safely.
3. Thread and Attach the Straps
Run the straps through both sides of the tie-down bars or handles. Then attach the other end to your vehicle’s anchor points. Many SUVs and trucks have factory-installed D-rings or latch bars you can use. If not, loop the straps securely around a seat base or cargo hook.
4. Tighten and Adjust
Pull the straps snug until the crate no longer shifts when gently pushed. The goal isn’t to overly compress the crate—just to keep it from sliding. Be sure both sides are evenly secured to avoid tilting.
5. Test for Stability
Push and rock the crate gently. If there’s too much movement, re-tighten the straps or reposition your anchor points. Once it feels stable and secure, you're good to go.
Best Practices & Safety Tips
To keep your crate setup safe and secure long-term, here are a few smart habits we follow ourselves:
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Inspect your straps regularly for fraying or hardware fatigue
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Position the straps low on the crate frame to avoid tipping
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Re-check tightness monthly, especially after long drives or crate removal
These quick checks can extend the life of your gear and ensure safe travels.
Traveling with Confidence
Whether you’re heading to a vet appointment, a dog show, or just a weekend at the lake, tethering your crate gives you and your dog peace of mind. Your dog feels more stable, and you can focus on the road knowing they’re safely anchored.
Many of our customers pair their crate setup with smart add-ons like our Impact Crate Fan to keep airflow steady on warmer days. It clips directly to the crate and is powered by USB, offering comfort without batteries or cords that get in the way.
For other accessories to elevate your crate setup—from pads to ID nameplates—browse our full Crate Accessories collection.
Conclusion
Tethering your dog’s crate is one of the simplest and most important steps you can take for vehicle safety. And thanks to our crates’ built-in tie-down bars, you don’t need any special gear—just a few quality straps and a minute or two of setup.
Explore our full range of accessories to complete your road-ready setup and enjoy every ride with total peace of mind.
