Before entering any car park with a height-restriction barrier, it’s essential to know your vehicle’s true overall height — including anything mounted on top — to avoid costly damage and safety risks.
How to measure your vehicle accurately:
- Park on level ground
Always measure on a flat, even surface to avoid inaccurate readings caused by slopes or uneven ground. - Measure from ground to the highest point
Use a tape measure (or laser measure) from ground level up to the highest fixed point on your vehicle. This could include:- Roof racks
- Roof boxes
- Ladders or pipe carriers
- Antennas, beacons, or mounted equipment
- Include all accessories and loads
Don’t rely on the manufacturer’s stated vehicle height — this usually excludes extras. Even temporary additions like a loaded roof box or strapped equipment must be included. - Check under real conditions
Consider how the vehicle sits when loaded:- Heavy loads may slightly lower suspension height
- Tyre pressure and weight distribution can affect clearance
Always measure the vehicle in its typical working or travel condition.
- Compare with the barrier signage
Check the displayed clearance height on the barrier (usually shown on an RA1 reflective sign in both metric and imperial units). Make sure your measured height is below this limit. - Allow a safety margin
It’s good practice to allow at least 100mm (4 inches) clearance to account for:- Uneven surfaces
- Suspension movement
- Slight measurement errors
- Use a visual reminder if needed
For regular drivers (e.g. vans or fleet vehicles), consider placing a height reminder sticker inside the cab to avoid uncertainty.
Why this matters
Incorrect height estimation is one of the most common causes of barrier strikes, leading to:
- Vehicle damage (roof, equipment, or load)
- Barrier damage and repair costs
- Safety risks to others nearby
At Aremco Barriers, our UK-manufactured height restriction barriers are supplied with clear, high-visibility signage to help drivers make informed decisions before entering. Taking a few moments to measure and check your vehicle height can prevent accidents, protect your vehicle, and avoid unnecessary costs.
