How to Transport and Set Up a Real Christmas Tree
You have found the perfect real Christmas tree. Now it needs to make the journey home and stand securely in your room without damaging the tree, your car or your decorations.
A little preparation makes the process much easier. Follow these steps from the field to the finished display.
Measure your space before collecting
Measure the ceiling, available floor width and the height of your stand before choosing the tree. Remember to leave room for a topper and a small gap beneath the ceiling.
Also measure your vehicle. Fold seats in advance, clear the boot and consider the length from the dashboard or front seats to the closed boot.
Bring the right equipment
Useful items include:
- A protective sheet or old blanket
- Strong, suitable securing straps if using a roof rack
- Gloves
- Your room and vehicle measurements
- A tape measure
Do not rely on loose string or attempt to hold a tree in place by hand through an open window.
Have the tree netted
Netting draws the branches in against the trunk, making the tree safer and easier to carry. At Rainfords Farm, trees are netted before you leave.
Carry the tree with the trunk leading where possible. This helps branches pass through doorways in their natural direction.
Transporting inside a vehicle
Protect the interior with a sheet or blanket and position the trunk so it cannot slide forwards. The tree must not obstruct the driver’s view, controls or mirrors, and all doors and the boot should close securely.
Never overload the vehicle. Very large trees may require delivery or a more suitable vehicle.
Transporting on a roof rack
Use a properly fitted roof rack and suitable straps. Position the trunk towards the front of the vehicle so airflow travels along the branches rather than forcing underneath them.
Secure the tree at several points and check that it cannot move in any direction. Do not attach it directly to an unprotected roof or use attachment points that are not designed to carry a load.
If you are uncertain, arrange delivery instead.
Keep the tree cool until you are ready
If you are not setting it up immediately, keep the tree in a cool, sheltered outdoor place with the trunk in water. Protect it from strong wind and check the water level.
Avoid leaving it in a warm garage, vehicle or heated room without water.
Prepare the trunk
If the tree was not cut immediately before coming home, saw approximately 1–2.5cm straight across the bottom of the trunk. This removes hardened sap and helps it take up water.
Do not cut the trunk at an angle or shave bark from the sides to force it into a stand. The outer layers help transport water, and removing them can make the tree less stable.
Use a suitable water-holding stand
Choose a stand rated for the tree’s height and trunk diameter. Position it on a level surface where it will not create a trip hazard.
It is often easier for two people to set up the tree: one holds it upright while the other adjusts the stand. Step back and check it from several angles before tightening everything securely.
Remove the net carefully
Once the tree is stable, cut the net from the bottom upwards without cutting into the foliage. Allow the branches several hours to relax before making final adjustments or decorating.
Keep children and pets clear while the branches open.
Add water immediately
Fill the stand with fresh tap water and make sure the base of the trunk remains submerged. Check the level every day; a new tree may drink more than expected during its first few days.
Choose a safe position
Keep the tree away from radiators, fires, heaters, strong sunlight and busy doorways. Use suitable LED lights, check cables for damage and turn the lights off overnight or whenever the house is empty.
From our field to your home
Our team will cut your chosen tree, net it for you. Local delivery is also available across selected North West postcode areas.
Choose or order your Rainfords Christmas tree and follow our daily tree care guide throughout the season.