What is a Motor Mover, and do You Need One?

If you’ve ever wrestled with positioning a caravan or trailer in tight spaces, a motor mover might feel like a luxury, until you try one. Simply put, a motor mover is a device fitted to a caravan’s chassis which engages rollers against the wheels so you can manoeuvre the caravan using a remote control, without needing to push or rely on your towing vehicle.

How It Works

A motor mover’s mechanism typically consists of one or more electric motors, drive rollers, and brackets to clamp onto the caravan’s chassis. When activated, the rollers press against the caravan tyre and rotate it moving the vehicle forward, backward, or even rotating it on the spot. Most are powered by a 12V leisure battery and controlled via a handheld remote.

Do You Need a Motor Mover?

A motor mover isn’t essential for every caravan owner, but for many, the benefits are clear:

• Ease of handling in tight spots: perfect for garages, storage yards or small pitches.
• Single-person operation: no need to rely on someone guiding or pushing.
• Reduced risk: less chance of bumps, scrapes or strain.
• Time & effort saved: accurate positioning in moments.

That said, movers do add weight, require installation, and work best with a healthy battery.

Buyer’s Checklist: What to Look For in a Motor Mover

Before investing, consider these factors to make sure you choose the right unit:

• Weight capacity: check the mover is rated to your caravan’s MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass).
• Manual vs. automatic engagement: some models require you to physically engage the rollers, while premium versions do this electronically.
• Single-axle vs. twin-axle compatibility: ensure the mover is designed for your caravan type.
• Battery requirements: confirm your leisure battery has sufficient capacity (often at least 85Ah).
• Control system: look for intuitive, responsive remote controls with good range.
• Warranty & support: reputable brands offer solid aftercare, which is valuable if issues arise.
• Weight of the unit: additional weight reduces your payload, so factor this into your caravan limits.
• Installation: check whether professional fitting is included or needed.

A motor mover can transform the way you handle your caravan, taking the stress out of tricky manoeuvres and giving you greater independence. For many owners, it’s not just a convenience but a long-term investment in safety and ease of use.