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Car Turntable Types: Residential, Commercial, and Specialized Models

Zachary Waldroup

Updated: Mar 6

Car turntables offer a practical and innovative way to manage vehicle movement in both residential and commercial settings. Whether you're a homeowner struggling with a tight driveway or a dealership looking to improve your car sales, a turntable can provide convenience, safety, and an impressive visual appeal.


Understanding the differences between residential and commercial car turntables is essential when deciding on the best option for your needs. From space-saving residential models to heavy-duty commercial applications, this guide explores the various types of car turntables, their installation methods, specialized uses, and key customization options.

 

A person sits in a bright yellow off-road vehicle indoors. "Toy Barn" sign on rustic wooden wall in the background. Bright, industrial lighting.
A bright yellow off-road vehicle is displayed on a mirror-finished CarTurner at the "Toy Barn"
 

Residential vs. Commercial: The Key Car Turntable Types


Residential Car Turntables

For homeowners dealing with limited driveway space or tricky exit routes, residential car turntables provide an easy solution. They eliminate the need for complex maneuvering by allowing the vehicle to rotate effortlessly, ensuring forward-facing departures.


Commercial Car Turntables

Businesses such as car dealerships, car shows, and automotive showrooms benefit greatly from turntables designed to enhance customer experience with eye-catching movement and dynamic viewpoints of the vehicle.

 

Above-Ground vs. In-Ground Installations


Above-Ground Turntables

Above-ground turntables are mounted directly onto an existing surface, making installation quick and cost-effective. Additionally, these turntables do not require permits so you can save yourself a headache and more money.


In-Ground Turntables

For a seamless, flush appearance, in-ground turntables are embedded into the ground. While this installation method requires excavation, permits, and is quite costly; it provides a fully integrated look.

 

Specialized Turntables for Unique Applications


Heavy-Duty Turntables

Heavy-duty turntables cater to larger vehicles such as trucks and buses. These require high weight capacity and durable materials.


Motion Control & Photography Turntables

For automotive photography, photo booth turntables allow for controlled rotation, ensuring comprehensive imaging from all angles.

 

Customization Options


Surface Finishes

Turntables can be finished with various materials, from hardwood and tiles to concrete and stainless steel, which CarTurner offers in brushed, mirror, and powder-coated stainless steel finishes.


Size

The size can vary depending on the manufacturer you choose, typically the turning surface will be 12' to 20' with some needing to be much larger for commercial applications.


CarTurner offers two primary turntable sizes to accommodate different vehicle dimensions:

  • CTS Standard Model: Features a 13'4" turning surface with a total footprint of 15'4".

  • CTEX Extended Model: Features a 16'4" turning surface with a total footprint of 18'4", designed for extended wheelbases.


Weight Capacity

The same can be said for weight capacity in commercial settings, however the majority of turntables have a limited capacity of around 10,000 lbs


Each CarTurner turntable is engineered for high load capacity:

  • Can withstand up to 10,000 lbs driving over it.

  • Comfortably rotates vehicles up to 7,000 lbs.

 

Why CarTurner Is the Best Choice


  1. Fast & Simple Installation – Unlike traditional turntables that require multiple contractors and weeks of work, CarTurner turntables can be installed and used within hours.

  2. Durability – Stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to harsh weather conditions.

  3. Advanced Technology – Six-motor redundancy system ensures reliability, and the 24V DC motors provide safe, efficient operation.

  4. No Permits Required – CarTurner’s 24V system eliminates the need for special permits, making the installation hassle-free.

  5. Load Distribution & Weight Capacity – CarTurner turntables can withstand up to 10,000 lbs driving over them and comfortably spin vehicles up to 7,000 lbs.

  6. Adaptability – CarTurner’s surface-mounted models allow for easy relocation, while in-ground options provide integration for permanent installations.

  7. Aesthetic Customization – With brushed, mirror, and powder-coated stainless steel finishes, CarTurner’s turntables blend effortlessly into any setting.

  8. Ease of Use – Wireless remote control operation ensures a seamless user experience, whether for residential driveways or high-end automotive displays.

 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right car turntable depends on your specific needs, whether it’s optimizing residential space, enhancing a showroom display, or streamlining vehicle photography. With its innovative design, quick installation, and high durability, CarTurner stands out as the leading choice for turntable solutions.


Need help selecting the best turntable for your space? Contact CarTurner today to explore your options!


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