How to Transport a Portable Mini Golf Course (Milco MFG, LLC)
Need to transport a Milco mini golf course?
Transporting a portable mini golf course takes planning. Operators want a setup that moves quickly, loads without struggle, and arrives in perfect shape.
Milco courses are engineered with that in mind. Built from lightweight aluminum, each section weighs around 45 pounds. They are easy to lift, slide, and secure. Modular design means you can move 3-hole, 6-hole, 9-hole, or full 18-hole courses with the right vehicle.
Another amazing advantage of Milco portable mini golf courses are our custom carts with pneumatic tires! These versatile transport carts turn the job from a headache into a smooth process.
To The Point:
- Box trucks, Transit vans, and trailers all work well for transporting portable mini golf courses.
- A lift gate measuring 72 inches deep by 88 inches wide is recommended for box trucks.
- Long cargo ramps (126 inches preferred) make Transit van loading easier and safer.
- Each Milco course section weighs about 45 pounds, which makes modules easier to move and set up.
- Transport carts with large pneumatic tires simplify loading, unloading, and moving across different surfaces.
Transporting Portable Mini Golf Courses with Box Trucks
Box trucks are a top choice for moving larger setups. They have the space to carry full 9-hole or 18-hole courses along with obstacles, putters, and scorecards. A 9 Hole Express fits neatly on one cart. An 18 Hole Express takes up two carts. Premium layouts, like the Crossover Classic, may require three or four carts depending on the package.
A lift gate sized at 72 inches deep by 88 inches wide gives operators a solid platform. The wider deck makes a difference when raising carts loaded with multiple modules. Real-world feedback from Milco’s Portable Mini Golf Pros group confirms that this setup works smoothly in the field. Operators consistently note that wider gates cut down on balancing issues during loading.
Using Ford Transit Vans for Smaller Courses
A Ford Transit van is a smart option for smaller packages. A 3-hole or 6-hole setup fits comfortably, and operators often use this method for rentals and local events. Daniel Millar shared a demonstration where a 6-hole course loaded directly into a Transit van without issue.
Ramps make or break the process. The Link LB20 Bi-Fold Cargo Van Ramp, at 126 inches long and 36 inches wide, offers the right angle for easy rolling. The LSR90 Swivel Ramp is another choice, but it measures only 117 inches in length. That shorter distance increases the incline, which can mean heavier lifting. Operators often recommend the non-swivel option because the extra length saves time and strain.
For everyday use, longer ramps reduce steepness and create a safer loading experience. When the course needs to be in and out of a van multiple times a week, the right ramp pays for itself quickly.
Transporting with Trailers and Ramp Doors
Trailers with ramp doors are another popular solution. Many operators already own enclosed trailers for event equipment, so adding mini golf to the load feels natural. The challenge comes with the hinge area. Gaps and slight elevation shifts at the ramp hinge can cause carts to catch or tilt.
Workarounds include placing a secondary ramp or stabilizer plate over the hinge to create a smooth surface. Some operators angle the trailer carefully to reduce the gap height. With modules weighing around 45 pounds each, individual sections can also be lifted by hand if needed. The lightweight aluminum construction gives flexibility, so even if the ramp setup isn’t perfect, the course can still be loaded quickly.
Why Milco Courses Are Easier to Transport
Milco builds courses with transport in mind. Each section weighs about 45 pounds, so lifting and sliding panels takes little effort. A complete 9-hole course sets up in 10 to 20 minutes, and even larger layouts move quickly with the right vehicle.
Aluminum frames give the modules strength without adding bulk. They don’t chip, warp, or demand ongoing maintenance like wood. That means every panel keeps its shape after years of loading and unloading.
Transport carts add another layer of convenience. Large 10-inch pneumatic tires roll smoothly over lift gates, ramps, and even grass. The carts hold modules securely, and moving a full set feels more like pushing a loaded dolly than heavy equipment.
Layouts stay flexible. A 9-hole Express fits on one cart, while an 18-hole Premium uses four carts. Distributing panels across carts keeps loads balanced and prevents damage in transit. Rubber safety trim protects every edge, so repeated handling doesn’t wear down the course.
Tips for Smooth Loading and Unloading
- Use the longest ramp available. A 126-inch ramp cuts the incline and makes rolling carts easier.
- Match the ramp width to your panel size. A 36-inch ramp provides enough space for stable movement without adding extra weight.
- Secure modules with straps once they’re inside the vehicle. Straps keep carts from shifting during sharp turns or bumpy roads.
- Load carts first, then add obstacles and accessories. That order saves time and keeps weight evenly distributed.
- Plan ahead for space. A 9-hole Express fills one cart, but Premium or Classic layouts need two or more. Knowing the cart count avoids surprises when loading.
Accessories and Obstacles in Transit
Obstacles bring the fun factor, and Milco’s aluminum pieces travel well. Powder-coated finishes keep them scratch-resistant and durable. Windmills, ramps, loops, barns, castles, and bridges all fit neatly in padded bins or hard cases.
Pack obstacles separately to avoid scratches or dents. Smaller pieces like tunnels and wedges can be grouped together, while larger ones deserve their own storage.
Transport carts handle the hole modules, keeping them slotted in place. With panels stacked securely, the carts prevent shifting and make unloading simple at the next setup site.
Get Started with Your Own Portable Mini Golf Course Today!
Transporting a portable mini golf course becomes straightforward with the right setup. Box trucks, vans, and trailers all handle Milco’s modular panels with ease. Lightweight aluminum construction, smart layouts, and custom carts turn what could be a heavy job into a quick task.
Milco designs courses to travel as well as they play. Durable edges, strong frames, and easy handling mean your investment moves safely from one event to the next.
Explore portable courses built for transport and performance at Portable Mini Golf.
FAQs: Transporting Mini Golf Courses
How can a portable mini golf course fit in a Ford Transit van?
A portable mini golf course can fit in a Ford Transit van by using a cargo ramp such as the Link LB20 Bi-Fold Ramp. A 6-hole course is a practical size for this vehicle.
What size lift gate works best for transporting a mini golf course in a box truck?
A lift gate that is 72 inches deep by 88 inches wide is recommended for box trucks moving portable mini golf courses.
How much does each section of a Milco mini golf course weigh?
Each section weighs about 45 pounds, making it easy for one or two people to move.
Can portable mini golf courses be transported in trailers?
Yes, trailers with ramp doors can be used. Some operators add a secondary ramp or stabilizer to bridge the hinge gap and elevation.
What makes Milco’s portable mini golf courses easier to transport than others?
Milco’s courses are built from lightweight aluminum, designed to fit into custom carts, and include rubber trim for protection during handling.