Picture Car Glossary
low loader
What is a low loader?
Updated June 2026 · Revolution Picture Cars
Also called lowloader.
A low loader is a flat, low-height tow trailer used to carry a picture car at road speed during location driving scenes, most commonly found in UK and European productions.
The picture car is secured to the trailer's deck while actors perform inside or on the vehicle, and camera crews ride on or around the low loader to capture footage. The low loading platform height allows cameras to be positioned at or just below the level of the vehicle's door sills, creating compelling, immersive driving angles.
Example
A low loader carries a picture car at road speed with actors performing inside, the camera rigged to the trailer, and a driver in the tractor unit. Common in the UK and Europe where a process trailer would be called for in the US.
Figures are illustrative, chosen to show the mechanics rather than to quote market rates.
Where you'll see it
Booked from a specialist vendor, and the European counterpart to a process trailer.
Common mistake
Assuming a low loader and a process trailer are the same booking. The terms differ by region, and so do the rigs, the crews, and the road permissions they need.
Related questions
- Who drives during a low loader shot?
- The tractor unit's driver sets the speed and the line. The performer in the picture car acts, with their hands on a wheel that is not controlling anything.
- How does it differ from a process trailer?
- Largely regional terminology for the same principle. Specific rigs vary in deck height, camera mounting options, and how the picture car is secured.
Official sources
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