Guide to Shipping Your RV
Share:
Proper recreational vehicle (RV) transport is essential. Whether you’re moving to a new home, selling your RV or transporting it for a fun adventure, there are a lot of logistical considerations.
This guide covers the most important factors for shipping your RV to ensure a smooth experience.
Types of Recreational Vehicles
There are two main categories of recreational vehicles — motorhomes and trailers. While motorhomes are independently operated vehicles, trailers need another vehicle to tow them.
You can ship the following types of RVs:
- Motorhomes: Motorhomes are classified as Class A, B or C. In terms of size, Class A is the largest, followed by Class C, mid-size, and Class B, the smallest. While Class As are often large coaches with features like larger bathrooms and kitchens, Class Bs generally have van chassis with fewer creature comforts. Class C motorhomes represent a midpoint with some comforts in a smaller footprint.
- Trailers: RV trailers have a range of features and sizes. Utility trailers can transport things like motorcycles, horses and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Larger and heavier than travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers have similar functions but often with more square footage and features.
- Campers: Campers fall under the trailer classification because they require towing but tend to be smaller. You can choose a truck camper that is installed in the bed of a pickup truck or a lightweight pop-up camper with a tent structure on top. These campers tend to be cost-effective and the easiest to tow.
How to Prepare Your RV for Shipping
There are many reasons you might need to ship an RV. The first thing you should do is consult your RV insurance — if your current policy doesn’t include shipping, consider updating your coverage. This step ensures you’re protected should something happen during transport. There are some key steps you need to take to protect your RV and ensure it reaches its destination safely.
5 Essential RV Preparation Tips
Follow these five steps to ensure your RV is ready for transport:
- Document everything: Ensure you have all relevant documentation on hand, including any necessary registrations, insurance and identification. Also, take photos or videos of the interior and exterior of the RV before you transport it — in particular, note any existing dents, scratches or interior damage.
- Clean and inspect: Dirt, dust and bugs can build up in the nooks and crannies of your RV, so give it a thorough interior and exterior cleaning. This will also help you spot any issues during your inspection. If you have a motorhome and haven’t run the engine in a while, do so to check for any operational issues. Also, be sure to close all windows and vents.
- Secure and remove belongings: Just like you would when preparing for a typical RV trip, secure loose items and latch doors, shades and cabinets. However, since you won’t be with your RV during transport, you should also remove personal belongings and decorations.
- Consider onboard fuel, propane and batteries: Many shippers require fuel levels to be no higher than a quarter tank. If there’s propane on board, remove the tank. If that’s not possible, turn it off and secure it. It’s also a good idea to disengage any batteries you have onboard, as these can drain during transport.
- Empty tanks: Be sure to fully empty all freshwater, blackwater and greywater tanks. It’s also a good idea to drain your antifreeze, which can also leak during transport.
Safety and Legal Regulations to Consider
When shipping an RV, your transport company will be well-versed in the legal requirements, but it’s a good idea to be aware of them. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re covered:
- Your vehicle title should be current, valid and in your name.
- Register your vehicle if it isn’t already.
- Have a copy of your proof of insurance.
- Keep the bill of sale or proof of purchase to verify your ownership.
- Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) is accurate on all documentation.
If you’re shipping your RV internationally, consider these additional regulations for international transport:
- Review the destination’s customs requirements for vehicles.
- Factor in any import taxes, duties and fees.
- Check if you require additional documentation, such as an emissions certificate.
- Ensure any vehicle modifications comply with the destination’s regulations.
Limited Time Offer
Need Expedited Transport?
When time is of the essence, our Expedited Transport Service ensure your vehicle gets where it needs to go – quickly sand safely. Whether you’re facing a tight deadline, unexpected move, or just want your car delivered ASAP, we’ve got you covered.
Seasonal Considerations for RV Shipping
Fall tends to be the best time for RV shipping. The peak shipping season tends to fall between August and December, and it’s a good idea to plan and schedule your shipment in advance to ensure you can get the delivery date you need.
Also, consider the climate of your origin, route and destination to figure out the best time of year — for example, you wouldn’t want to schedule your RV shipment for February in New England, as snow events tend to impact road travel.
However, random weather events can also impact shipping. Flooding, wildfires, hurricanes and strong storms can all impact travel, and these events aren’t always predictable. For the best shipping experience, work with an experienced company prepared to tackle the unexpected.
RV Size Restrictions and Regulations
The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) has regulations and limits for the size and weight of cargo transported on public roads. The federal weight limits for interstate travel include:
- 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.
- 20,000 pounds for single-axle vehicles.
- 34,000 pounds for tandem-axle vehicles.
Be sure to also review the rules for the states the RV will travel through, as they may set different limits.
Smaller campers and trailers will likely have fewer applicable restrictions, but larger trailers and motorhomes may need special oversized load permits or have to contend with route restrictions. Your shipping provider can walk you through any special size and weight considerations for shipping.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship an RV?
Shipping an RV across the country requires many logistical considerations, and you may wonder how much it costs. RV shipments are more complex than a flat rate. Factors like distance, fuel prices, route, complexity and destination contribute to the final cost of shipping.
If you want to ship an RV overseas, you should factor in international shipping expenses, documentation and customs requirements. In many cases, it generally costs more to transport cargo overseas.
Transport Methods for RV Shipping
Shipping a camper, motorhome or trailer might necessitate different transport methods depending on the RV’s size, weight, dimensions and destination. In general, you’ll have two main options for RV shipping — open and enclosed carriers. Choosing between the two requires looking at the costs, travel considerations and your preferences.
Open Air vs. Enclosed Carriers
When deciding between open air or enclosed transport, consider the following:
- Cost: Enclosed transport usually costs more than open air, as it tends to be more complex.
- Weather: Open air transport will expose your RV to the elements. If you aren’t concerned about the impact of rain or other weather events, open air is often a perfectly acceptable option. However, if you’re traveling during seasons with frequent bad weather or have concerns about outdoor conditions, go for enclosed transport.
- Distance: While short distances may be fine for open air RV transport, enclosed carriers can provide peace of mind for longer journeys.
- Availability: Open carriers tend to have more availability than enclosed transport, which may translate to shorter waiting times.
- RV value: Consider the value of the RV you’re shipping against the transportation costs. Spending a lot of money to ship your pop-up camper might not be the most cost-effective option. Using an enclosed shipping container to ship your motorhome may be the right choice.
Trust AutoTransport.com for All Your RV Shipping Needs
As an industry leader in vehicle transportation, you can rely on AutoTransport.com for reliable and experienced RV shipping services.
We offer both open air and enclosed transportation options, and we operate locally and long-distance. Our door-to-door drive away and delivery sets us apart from the competition. Plus, we have customized transport experience and expert automobile handlers, so you can trust your RV will be in good hands.
For affordable rates with no hidden fees, reach out to our team for a service estimate.
Linked Sources
- https://www.supplychainbrain.com/articles/39870-peak-shipping-season-arrives-early-at-us-ports
- https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freight/policy/rpt_congress/truck_sw_laws/app_a.htm
- https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freight/sw/map21tswstudy/technical_rpts/vol1technicalsummary/01current_tsw_regs.htm
- https://autotransport.com/knowledge-base/how-to-ship-your-vehicle-cross-country/
- https://autotransport.com/services/
- https://autotransport.com/why-should-you-choose-us/
- https://autotransport.com/request-a-quote/
Cross-Country Car Transport FAQs
What is Driveaway Service?
A driveaway service involves hiring a professional to drive your vehicle from one place to another on your behalf. This is different from using a trailer or freight carrier because your vehicle is driven, not loaded onto a truck.
Driveaway services are often less expensive than most car shipping methods. This requires you to work with a reputable company with reliable, professional drivers like AutoTransport.com. The process of booking a drive away is easy.
You can speak with our car shipping specialist at AutoTransport.com to get an instant quote. (800) 757-7125
What Are The Benefits of a Drive Away Service?
Besides having someone else handle the stress of a long drive, a driveaway service has plenty of other benefits as well which include :
- Faster car shipping
- Delivered To Your Door
- Personalized Attention
- Transportation Flexibility
- Professional Driver Dedicated To Your Vehicle
These advantages make driveaway services an easy choice for those looking to transport their vehicles efficiently and safely.
Why Choose Us For Your Car Shipping Services?
When you choose AutoTransport.com for your driveaway service, you’re working with a top company that provides excellent car transportation. Here’s what you can expect:
- Safe and Easy Transportation: Our trustworthy drivers are dedicated to making sure your car is transported safely.
- Free Estimates: You can call us for a free quote to find out our reasonable prices and options that fit your needs.
- Reliable Service: We understand that letting someone else drive your car can feel risky, so we make sure to provide a dependable service.
- 24/7 Tracking: You’ll have access to auto tracking at any time, and we include insurance coverage in your quote.
With AutoTransport.com, you can feel confident knowing that we take all the necessary safety steps to ensure a smooth car shipping experience. Get your free driveaway shipping quote today!
Enclosed Car Transport vs. Driveaway Service?
When choosing between enclosed car transport and driveaway service, there are key things to consider.
Enclosed Car Transport:
- Protects from weather and road debris
- Better security since car is hidden
- Great for luxury or classic cars
- Usually costs more
Driveaway Service:
- Faster delivery
- More flexible and can handle larger vehicles
- May allow personal items in the car
- Adds mileage to your vehicle
In short, enclosed transport is good for cars that need extra protection, while driveaway service can be better if you want faster delivery and flexibility. The best choice depends on what you need and how valuable your car is. Both options have their advantages which can be discussed with a car shipping specialist.
Why is Auto Insurance Required For Car Shipping?
Car insurance for transport gives you peace of mind when shipping your car. You won’t worry if an accident occurs. This is because your car is fully insured while it’s being moved.
Most costs for damages or accidents are covered. You won’t have to pay for repairs or replacements. You also get protection for injuries to others in an accident with your car.
This insurance keeps your investment safe and protects you from legal problems. You can relax knowing your car and your peace of mind are protected. With the right insurance, you’re all set for worry-free car transport.
