Do you have a hard time getting your cat or small dog into a pet carrier? Here is what I do for my very frisky, fully clawed, full grown tabby..
Put the cage on its back end so that the door is facing the ceiling, open the door wide. Do this away from your pet so they do not get suspicious. Find your pet, say hello kitty or puppy or whatever cute words you use with them. Pet them, love them, and gently pick them up, keep petting and talking so they are distracted. Then bring them into the room with the cage and lower their body into the cage- back legs first. So you are essentially gently dropping them in so they land on their hind legs. quickly close and lock door and put cage slowly on the correct side.
Voila! You are ready for your car ride!