If you have an RV that you need to ship to a new destination, you may be wondering what’s involved with fifth wheel RV transport. How does this work, and is it a good idea to have your fifth-wheel RV shipping using a Moving service? Find out all of the details in this article from A-1 Auto Transport.
What Is A Fifth Wheel RV?
A “fifth wheel” RV is an RV that’s designed to attach to a “fifth wheel.” This is a horseshoe-shaped coupling device that’s used on semi-trucks and can be installed in pickup trucks. Most commonly, fifth-wheel RVs are towed by pickup trucks that have a “fifth wheel” installed in the truck bed.
Fifth wheels are distinct from “camper” or “trailer” RVs, which typically attach to a standard trailer hitch, and are usually much smaller than a fifth wheel RV. They are also different from motorized RVs or “motorhomes,” which are not towed by a truck, but are completely self-contained, motorized units.
A fifth-wheel RV has some great benefits compared to other types of RVs and camper trailers. They’re very stable when towing, offer plenty of space, and are a great value. Not only that, you can disconnect your truck and leave the RV behind at a campground. This means that you can drive to some places that may be impossible to get to with a motorized RV, and you can save on fuel, too.
How Does Fifth Wheel RV Transport Work?
The process is actually quite simple. In most cases, your fifth wheel RV will simply be attached to a pickup truck or a semi-truck. Then, it will be towed to its destination with its wheels on the ground. However, in some cases, a flatbed trailer may be used. However, hiring a flatbed and driver is a lot more expensive than simply having your fifth wheel towed.
Transporting a fifth wheel is easy because these RVs are designed to be towed very long distances – their axles, wheels, and other components are reinforced and able to handle the process of being towed thousands of miles.
In contrast, a self-contained motorhome cannot be towed in this way, because this would put a lot of stress on the drivetrain and other motorized components. Fifth wheel RVs are not motorized, so they don’t have this issue.
All fifth wheel RVs can handle being towed, but if you would like to keep your RV off of the road and protect it from some minor wear & tear, a flatbed or gooseneck trailer may be used to tow the RV, in some cases. However, this will cost you more money.
Why Would I Need Fifth Wheel Transport Services?
You may need to move your fifth wheel RV if you’re moving to a new state or city. Or, if you buy a fifth wheel RV, you can have it shipped to your door instead of picking it up. Similarly, you can ship a fifth wheel RV that you’ve sold to avoid a long trip to the buyer.
These are all great reasons for shipping a fifth wheel. If you need to move your RV quickly and don’t want to drive it yourself, fifth-wheel Moving services are the best option for you.
How Much Does Fifth Wheel RV Transport Cost?
Like most other heavy hauling jobs, fifth wheel RV transport is typically charged at a per-mile rate. You’ll usually pay about $4 per mile for the first 100 miles, but longer trips will have a lower per-mile rate. For cross-country shipping, this may be anywhere from $1-3 per mile.
Beyond the per-mile rate and total distance of fifth Tire Moving, there are some other factors that can affect the cost of fifth wheel RV transport, such as:
- Pickup vs. semi-truck – Most fifth-wheel RV hauling companies use heavy-duty pickup trucks to haul your RV, but some larger RVs may need a semi-truck. Hiring a semi-truck will always be more expensive compared to a pickup truck.
- Size and weight of your RV – Regardless of whether it’s transported using a pickup truck or a semi-truck, the overall size and weight of your RV will affect fuel use during the trip, so a heavier, less aerodynamic, or larger fifth wheel RV will cost more to ship than a smaller model. Keep this in mind when getting a quote for a fifth-wheel RV Moving.
- Additional insurance – Your fifth wheel RV hauling company should tell you about their insurance coverage, and how much it covers. If your RV is worth more than their coverage limit, inquire about additional insurance coverage. This will cost you a bit more money, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.
Relevant Statistics
- The 5th wheel transport market has experienced a growth rate of 12% over the past five years.
- Approximately 1 out of every 10 recreational vehicles sold in North America is a 5th wheel.
- The average weight of a 5th-wheel trailer is around 9,000 pounds (4,082 kilograms).
- Around 65% of 5th wheel owners prefer using diesel trucks for towing.
- Over 90% of 5th wheel owners report their satisfaction with the maneuverability and stability of this type of Moving.
General Facts
- 5th wheel Moving refers to the towing of trailers using a specialized hitch connected in the bed of a pickup truck.
- The hitch used in 5th wheel Moving is called a "5th wheel hitch," and it provides increased stability and maneuverability compared to traditional ball hitches.
- 5th wheel trailers are popular for RVs and campers as they offer more interior space and usually have multiple levels within the trailer.
- The weight capacity for 5th wheel transport depends on the specific make and model of the truck and hitch being used.
- Due to their design, 5th wheel trailers have a tighter turning radius, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces compared to other types of trailers.
Need Fifth Wheel Transport For Your RV? Contact A-1 Auto Transport Now
At A-1 Auto Transport, we have a huge network of heavy hauling and shipping companies, and drivers in the United States, and we can help you ship just about anything – whether your RV needs to go a few hundred miles or across the country, we’re here for you. We have served several customers across the country and Canada with awesome testimonials.
Contact us online or give us a call at (888) 230-9116 to get a quote or inquire for more information, and see how A-1 Auto Transport can help you to Move your RV safely and securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fifth wheel travel?
A fifth-wheel hitch installed in the middle of the truck bed connects a fifth-wheel camper, sometimes referred to as a fifth-wheel trailer, to a vehicle. This arrangement is a well-liked option for long road trips and camping excursions since it provides a distinctive blend of roomy accommodations and luxury. At A1 Auto Transport, we are experts in fifth-wheel transportation. To transfer these massive automobiles securely, we use heavy haulers and heavy equipment shipping.
What is a 5th wheel vehicle?
A fifth-wheel vehicle is a recreational vehicle that provides some of the most opulent and roomy accommodations on the market. Fifth-wheel RVs are pulled behind a pickup truck or other vehicle, giving them more mobility and flexibility than motorhomes. They are, therefore, perfect for tourists who wish to have all the conveniences of home while traveling without having to tow a big RV. We at A1 Auto Transport take the utmost care while transporting fifth-wheel campers and trailers, making sure your mobile home arrives at its location without incident.
How are 5th wheels shipped?
The shipping process for fifth wheels is relatively straightforward. Typically, a fifth wheel RV is attached to a semi-truck or a pickup equipped with a fifth wheel hitch. This setup allows the RV to be transported with its wheels on the ground, providing a stable and secure transport method. In some cases, especially for longer distances or complex routes, a flatbed trailer may be used to transport the fifth wheel. A1 Auto Transport utilizes a range of heavy equipment and rapid auto shipping techniques to ensure safe and efficient fifth wheel trailer shipping across the United States.
What is a 5th wheel platform?
The U-shaped connection mechanism installed in the bed of the towing vehicle, usually a pickup truck or semi-truck, is referred to as the "fifth wheel". A safe connection between the tow car and the fifth-wheel trailer is made possible by this fifth-wheel hitch's connection to a matching kingpin on the trailer. This configuration offers more stability and mobility and is akin to that found on commercial semi-trailers. To guarantee that your trailer is handled with care and skill, A1 Auto Transport provides specialist wheel transportation services, including fifth-wheel shipping.