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How do I measure the space needed for a car turntable?

Dec 04, 2025

Hey there! As a supplier of car turntables, I often get asked about how to measure the space needed for a car turntable. It's a crucial question because getting the measurements right ensures that your car turntable fits perfectly in your space and functions smoothly. In this blog, I'll walk you through the steps to measure the space for a car turntable, and I'll also touch on some important factors to consider.

Understanding the Basics

First things first, let's talk about the different types of car turntables we offer. We have Residential Garage Turntable, which are great for home use, Electric Car Turntable that are powered for easy operation, and Rotating Car Turntable that provide a 360 - degree rotation. Each type might have slightly different space requirements, but the general measuring principles are the same.

Step 1: Measure Your Car

The first step in determining the space needed for a car turntable is to measure your car. You'll need to know the length, width, and height of your vehicle. Use a tape measure to get these dimensions. Measure from the front - most point of the car to the rear - most point for the length, and from one side - mirror tip to the other for the width. For the height, measure from the ground to the highest point on the car, usually the roof.

It's important to note that you should add a little extra space around the car for safety and ease of movement. I usually recommend adding at least 12 - 18 inches (30 - 46 cm) on each side of the car for width and 12 - 18 inches at the front and rear for length. This extra space allows you to drive the car onto and off the turntable without hitting the edges.

Step 2: Consider the Turntable Type

The type of car turntable you choose will also affect the space requirements. For example, a rotating car turntable needs enough space around it to complete a full 360 - degree turn. You'll need to ensure that there are no obstacles in the way, such as walls, pillars, or other vehicles.

If you're considering an electric car turntable, you'll need to think about the space for the power supply and any control panels. Make sure there's enough room to install these components without interfering with the turntable's operation or your ability to access the car.

Step 3: Measure the Installation Area

Now that you know your car's dimensions and have considered the turntable type, it's time to measure the installation area. Start by measuring the floor space where you plan to install the turntable. The area should be flat and level. Uneven floors can cause the turntable to malfunction or make it difficult to drive the car on and off.

Measure the length and width of the available floor space. Compare these dimensions with the dimensions of your car (including the extra space we added earlier) and the turntable's requirements. You need to make sure that there's enough space for the turntable and the car to move safely.

car turntableDriveway Turntable

If you're installing the turntable in a garage, also measure the height of the garage ceiling. You want to ensure that there's enough clearance for the car's height, especially if you have a taller vehicle like an SUV or a van.

Step 4: Account for Access Points

Don't forget to consider the access points to the turntable. You need to have enough space to drive the car onto and off the turntable comfortably. Measure the width of the doorways or entrances leading to the turntable area. If the doorway is too narrow, you might have trouble getting the car onto the turntable.

Also, think about the turning radius of your car. You need to have enough space in front of and around the turntable to make the necessary turns to drive onto it.

Step 5: Check for Structural Support

Another important factor is the structural support of the installation area. Car turntables can be heavy, especially when a car is on them. You need to ensure that the floor can support the weight. If you're installing the turntable in a basement or on an upper floor, consult a structural engineer to make sure the floor can handle the load.

Step 6: Think About Future Use

When measuring the space, it's a good idea to think about future use. Maybe you plan to upgrade your car in the future to a larger vehicle. If so, you might want to measure based on the dimensions of a larger car to ensure that the turntable will still work for your future needs.

Step 7: Double - Check Your Measurements

Once you've taken all the measurements, double - check them. It's easy to make a mistake, and getting the measurements wrong can lead to a lot of headaches. Re - measure everything and compare your results. If possible, have someone else measure as well to confirm your findings.

Conclusion

Measuring the space needed for a car turntable is a multi - step process that requires careful consideration of your car's dimensions, the turntable type, the installation area, access points, structural support, and future use. By following these steps, you can ensure that you choose the right size turntable for your needs.

If you're still unsure about the measurements or which type of car turntable is best for you, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you make the right decision. Whether you're looking for a Residential Garage Turntable, an Electric Car Turntable, or a Rotating Car Turntable, we have the expertise to guide you through the process. Contact us today to start the conversation about your car turntable needs!

References

  • General knowledge and experience in the car turntable industry.
  • Standard automotive measurement practices.
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William Moore
William Moore
William is an industry reviewer. He often conducts in - depth evaluations of the material handling equipment and aerial work platforms produced by Shandong Cathay Machinery Co., Ltd., providing objective and fair evaluation reports for the market.
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