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Transporting Your Truck in the United States
With A-1 Auto Transport, you will not have to worry about your truck shipping cost. We ship to all 50 states in the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. Truck and car hauling service is not an easy task, but after operating for 25 years, shipping for different types of customers, we have mastered it. We have skilled vehicle shipping professionals to move the trailer for you within the cities in the United States. We have industry-standard insurance coverage to guarantee protection for your trailer in the event of damage or an accident.
Our auto carrier company will determine the best trailer to transport your truck at the most affordable rate. Transporting requires a special permit from the car transport companies to ascertain safe moving, but we take care of it all for you.
Take a quick look at the types of large-size vehicles we can transfer even in the peak car shipping demand season:
- Classic trailer
- Pickup trailers e.g. Ford F-150
- Old, antique, and vintage trucks
- Tow lorry or heavy-duty dump trucks
- Garbage trucks or fire engines
- Box or platform vehicles
- Tank and dump trailer
- Work lorries
- Heavy duty lorries
- Commercial and semi-truck vehicle
- Cement mixer trucks
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Truck? Truck Shipping Rates Explained
Transporting a truck is not much different from shipping a vehicle, although it can cost more depending on the size and dimensions of the truck. The weight of the trailer is also an important factor since heavier vehicles are more costly to transport. Getting to ship your lorry on a budget is possible if you can just spend some time to research different companies and their services, and probably make your booking during an off-peak season.
At the bottom of this page, you’ll find some transport prices to give you a firm idea of what you’ll be facing during the process of transporting a truck. Several factors affect the shipping rate. Let's have a look at them.
Size/Type of Truck
Smaller trucks like pickups are pretty much in line with the rate of transporting a basic sedan. A pickup or midsize vehicle generally weighs in the neighborhood of 3,500 pounds, whereas a larger trailer can weigh between 4,000 and 6,000 pounds. Going beyond this, semi trucks and heavy equipment can weigh several times as much.
The size of the pickup is a major factor in determining how much a shipping business will charge to transfer your lorry. Moving a trailer requires careful consideration of its dimensions and weight. Due to the wide disparity in size and mass amongst trucks, there is no universally applicable answer. It is not like driving a pickup when you are towing a cement mixer.
Shipping Distance/Location
Just like the size of the truck, the rate of transporting is always contingent on the distance being shipped. It’s an industry-wide standard that more shipping distance equates with a lower per-mile cost, gas prices notwithstanding, but the overall car hauling costs will still be higher.
Another consideration is the specific destination the truck is being transported to. For example, any destination that does not lie along a major highway or artery isn’t accessible by direct routes, or requires other types of special services will cost slightly more.
Equipment Needed by the Auto Transport Company
Shipping of trucks requires different tools and equipment. However, the tools needed vary with the truck’s dimensions. Different types of trailers are used in the auto conveyance industry for the purpose of transportation, such as single-drop, double-drop, flatbed, etc. The approximate car transport cost depends on the type of trailer you are transporting.
Pickup and Delivery Locations
Like any other car transport, the pick-up and drop-off locations play a significant role in determining the average cost of shipping a truck. Carrier's gas mileage, fuel costs, and type of shipping services can influence how much it costs to ship a lorry per mile.
But what many don’t know is that the route can also determine the vehicle hauling prices. Some delivery routes are less expensive than others. You need to pay attention to this to save money, especially when you want to move a truck cross-country or long-distance.
Many auto transport companies provide a car shipping cost calculator so that you can check the average price to get your vehicle delivered to the destination.
Should I Ship My Truck or Drive It Myself?
Sure, shipping involves a lot of steps and causes stress. One of the primary reasons behind this is there are very few car hauling companies that ship trucks across the country or outside the border.
You must have bought a new truck and need to get it immediately to some other location. Shipping the trailer makes more sense than driving it all by yourself. Not only can driving the lorry be tiring, but it can also lead to tedious navigation. All these can add to your stress as a truck driver.
Still, wondering if you should ask a car carrier or drive it yourself? Take a look at the benefits of using open transport carriers.
Keeps the Truck in Better Shape
Driving from one location to another in your truck might sound like a lot of fun, but it is not. Not only will you have to drive your lorry across many jurisdictions, but you will cover the whole distance driving all by yourself.
Moreover, you will not be able to reverse the miles raked in the lorry. Apart from leading to wear and tear, it can add more mileage to the truck. So, if you try to resell it after it reaches the destination, the resale value will drop.
If you want your truck to be in better shape, you should go with a trailer moving company like A-1 Auto Transport. By doing so, you can cut down on the maintenance cost per mile and keep the trailer in better shape. The cost per mile ranges differently for enclosed and open carrier transport.
Avoids Health Complications
When you are driving long distances, you will have to drive the trailer for over 8-10 hours a day during the trip This can exhaust you and will take a toll on your health. Driving continuously for a long duration results in backaches, hand strains, or headaches. If you suffer neck or back strains, it might lead to long-term complications.
By hiring a shipping company to move your truck, you can save yourself such troubles and get your vehicle to arrive in the cheapest way without worrying about fuel prices. Door-to-door service will make sure you don't have any health problems due to exhaustive driving. You will also save your vehicle from damage due to inexperienced long distance driving on the highway.
Transporting Multiple Cars or Trucks
If you have to transport more than one truck, driving is not an option. Our company can transfer several trucks at once in an enclosed carrier, we ship vehicles anywhere by road. With the enclosed shipping method, you can rest assured that your trucks will be transported to their destination safely, and protected from the elements and weather. The total cost to haul a car per mile using enclosed trailers depends on the vehicle size.
Relevant Statistics
- The average cost to ship a truck cross-country is $1,850.
- Approximately 75% of shipping companies offer insurance coverage for trucks during transport.
- The cost to ship a standard pickup trailer within a state ranges from $500 to $800.
- On average, it costs $2 per mile to transport a truck using an open carrier.
- Around 90% of truck shipments are delivered within the estimated timeframe provided by the shipping company.
General Facts
- The cost to ship a truck depends on various factors, including the distance, size, weight, and carriage method.
- Shipping companies typically charge based on the mileage or distance traveled.
- The size and weight of the truck can impact the overall cost, as larger and heavier trucks require more resources for transportation.
- Different carriage methods, such as open-air conveyance or enclosed transport, have varying costs associated with them.
- Additional services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping may incur extra charges in the overall cost of shipping a truck.
Previous Prices For Shipping Trucks (In the U.S.)
Trucks don’t really cost more than shipping a vehicle if you’re taking a midsize, something like a Toyota Tacoma, Ford Escape, or Nissan Frontier, for example. However, if you’re shipping a larger truck or large SUV like a Toyota Tundra or GMC Sierra, the added weight will cost more. The prices below reflect car haulage prices for a midsize trailer, so you should adjust according if you’re shipping a smaller or larger truck in an enclosed trailer.
- Car transport cost from Los Angeles, CA to Bismarck, ND - $874
- Car moving cost from Philadelphia, PA, to Denver, CO - $1,043
- Cost to ship a truck from Seattle, WA, to Dallas, TX - $1,078
- Cost to ship a truck from Chicago, IL to Albuquerque, NM - $832
- How much does it charge to haul a truck from Atlanta, GA, to Sacramento, CA - $1,250
- What is the expense to move a truck from Minneapolis, MN to Columbus, OH - $631
One last thing to consider is the final car transport cost internationally. (To some extent, this also applies to transporting a trailer to Alaska and Hawaii.) Naturally, it costs to ship a truck per mile on a truck is more than to ship with a boat. There are also other options that are specific to overseas shipping and custom vehicles, which you can learn more about in our international shipping guide here.
If you’re considering shipping a truck, either in the U.S. or internationally, give us a call today at the number at the top of the page! Our prices are consistently among the lowest in the industry and we are happy to offer FREE estimates & answer your questions!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I ship my trucks?
With A-1 Auto Transport, you can ship your trailers to any one of the 50 states in the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska. If you want to know how much does it cost to ship trucks, fill our online form to get free quotes.
How long will it take for the truck to reach the destination?
The time it takes to ship your truck to your destination depends on the pickup date you have chosen and the destination. If you are shipping your lorries to a longer distance, it will require more time, such as a week. But shorter distances can take 2-4 days. The estimated delivery time is given out when you request a free quote for the transport.
What types of trucks do you ship?
You can use our shipping services to transport one truck or more. A1Auto Transport is in the business for more than 2 decades. We ship standard trucks, factory standard pickups, tow truck, pick-up trucks, box trucks, fire engines, flatbeds, and commercial vehicles. We provide all types of transporting solutions. If you need more space for your truck, choose enclosed transport.
How to prepare my truck for shipping?
No matter if you want to ship a car or truck, you should check the vehicle that it is in operating condition. Don’t forget to check for leaks. If there are any, get them repaired before shipping. Take out all your personal items and household goods from the enclosed truck. Use zip ties to secure the doors to make sure that they do not open during transportation.
Yes, you can easily track your truck during transport. We offer satellite tracking tool that will let you know about the real-time location of the truck.
Are there any additional fees by auto transport companies?
We give an accurate transport cost quote to our customers. The final price is all-inclusive. To determine the cost to ship a car or truck, we take into consideration the dimension, distance, route, fuel price, and fuel need. As our carrier bidding process is completely transparent, you don’t have to worry about any hidden costs. You can call us at the number posted on top of this page to get a custom quote.
Does the car shipping company offer 24/7 customer service?
We are committed to providing our customers with the best possible service. So, you will find a responsive and friendly customer support team always at your disposal. Always check company reviews online to learn more about the customer service.
How much will it cost to ship your large SUV or truck?
The cost to ship a large SUV or truck will vary depending on several factors, including:
- The distance being shipped
- The type of vehicle being shipped
- The time of year
- The pickup and delivery locations
- The shipping company you choose
Generally, you can expect to pay between $550 and $1,750 to ship a large SUV or truck nationwide. However, the price could be higher or lower depending on the abovementioned factors.
For example, shipping an SUV from Los Angeles to New York City in the summer is more expensive than shipping the same SUV in the winter. This is because there is more demand for shipping services in the summer, and the shipping companies can charge higher prices.
How much does it cost to ship a car, and what factors raise or lower the cost?
The cost to ship a car varies depending on several factors, including:
- Distance: The longer the distance the car needs to be shipped, the higher the cost.
- Type of transport: There are two main types of car transport: open and enclosed. Open transport is the most common and affordable option, but it leaves the car exposed to the elements. Enclosed transport is more expensive, but it provides protection from the weather and other hazards.
- Vehicle type: Some vehicles are more expensive to ship than others. For example, luxury, classic, and sports cars are typically more expensive to ship than standard sedans and SUVs.
- Time of year: Car shipping rates are typically higher during the peak summer months.
- Fuel prices: The cost of fuel can also affect car shipping rates.
According to a recent study by Move.org, the average cost to ship a car in the United States is $1,108. However, the cost can range from as low as $510 for a short-distance shipment on an open carrier to $1,580 for a cross-country shipment in an enclosed truck.
Here are some tips for lowering the cost of shipping your car:
- Be flexible with your shipping dates. You'll likely get a lower rate if you can avoid shipping your car during the peak summer months.
- Get quotes from multiple car shipping companies. Compare rates from different companies to get the best deal.
- Consider open transport. Open transport is the most affordable option, but weighing the cost savings against the potential risks of exposing your car to the elements is important.
- Ship your car during the week. Car shipping rates are typically lower during the week than on weekends.
If you need to figure out how much it will cost to ship your car, you can get a free quote from most car shipping companies.
Can I ship personal items in my car when shipping cars across the country?
It is generally allowed to ship personal items in your car when shipping it across the country. However, there are some restrictions and guidelines that you need to follow. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Check with the car shipping company: Before packing any personal items in your car, it is important to check with the car shipping company to see if they allow it. Some companies restrict or limit the amount or type of personal items that can be shipped in the car.
2. Insurance coverage: Check if your car insurance or the car shipping company's insurance covers any damage or loss to the personal items in your car during transit. It is also a good idea to document the condition of your car and the items inside before shipping.
3. Weight restrictions: There may be weight restrictions imposed by the car shipping company or the Department of Transportation. Exceeding these weight limits can lead to additional charges or even refusal to transport your car.
4. Secure the items properly: When packing personal items in your car, ensure they are securely packed and won't shift during transit. Use proper packing materials and secure the items in the trunk or backseat to prevent damage to your car or the items inside.
5. Prohibited items: Certain items may be prohibited from being shipped in your car, such as hazardous materials, firearms, illegal substances, or perishable items. Check the list of prohibited items the car shipping company provides to avoid any issues.
Discussing the specifics with the car shipping company is always recommended to ensure that you comply with their policies and guidelines regarding shipping personal items in your car.
What is the most cost-effective way to transport a car?
The most cost-effective way to transport a car is typically through open transport. Open transport is the most common and affordable option for car shipping. It involves transporting the car on an open carrier, a large truck that can transport multiple vehicles simultaneously. While open transport leaves the car exposed to the elements, it is a safe and reliable method of transportation. Open transport is the best choice if you want to save money on car shipping.
How much does out-of-state car shipping cost?
The cost of shipping a car out of state varies depending on several factors, including the distance, the type of car, the time of year, and the shipping company you choose. However, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for most out-of-state car shipments.
Here are some of the factors that affect the cost of shipping a car out of state:
- Distance: The longer the distance, the more expensive the shipment.
- Type of car: Larger cars and cars with special features, such as luxury or sports cars, are more expensive to ship.
- Time of year: Car shipping rates tend to be higher during summer when demand is higher.
- Shipping company: Different shipping companies have different rates. It's important to get quotes from multiple companies before you choose one.
In addition to the base shipping cost, other fees may be associated with shipping a car out of state, such as pickup and delivery fees, fuel surcharges, and insurance fees.
Can I pack items when shipping my truck?
Yes, you can pack items when shipping your truck. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
1. Check with the truck shipping company: Before packing any items in your truck, it is important to check with the truck shipping company to see if they allow it. Some companies restrict or limit the amount or type of items that can be shipped in the truck.
2. Weight restrictions: There may be weight restrictions imposed by the truck shipping company or the Department of Transportation. Exceeding these weight limits can lead to additional charges or even refusal to transport your truck.
3. Secure the items properly: When packing items in your truck, ensure they are securely packed and won't shift during transit. Use proper packing materials and secure the items to prevent damage to your truck or the items inside.
4. Prohibited items: Certain items may be prohibited from being shipped in your truck, such as hazardous materials, firearms, illegal substances, or perishable items. Check the list of prohibited items provided by the truck shipping company to avoid any issues.
Discussing the specifics with the truck shipping company is always recommended to ensure that you comply with their policies and guidelines regarding packing items in your truck.
How to calculate out-of-state car shipping costs?
Calculating out-of-state car shipping costs can be done by considering several factors. Here is a step-by-step guide:
1. Determine the distance: Measure the distance between the pickup and delivery locations. The longer the distance, the higher the shipping cost will likely be.
2. Choose the type of transport: Decide whether you want open or enclosed transport. Open transport is usually more affordable, while enclosed transport provides greater protection but costs more.
3. Consider the type of car: Larger or heavier vehicles may cost more to ship than smaller ones. Luxury cars or specialty vehicles may also incur additional fees.
4. Check the time of year: Car shipping rates can vary depending on the season. Rates are typically higher during peak summer months when demand is greater.
5. Research shipping companies: Request quotes from multiple car shipping companies to compare prices. Different companies may offer different rates, so shopping around is essential.
6. Additional fees: Be aware of any additional fees that may apply, such as pickup and delivery fees, fuel surcharges, or insurance fees.
You can calculate the estimated out-of-state car shipping costs by considering these factors and obtaining quotes from different shipping companies.
How much is it to ship a car overseas from the United States?
The cost to ship a car overseas from the United States varies depending on several factors, including:
- The distance between the origin and destination ports
- The size and type of vehicle
- The shipping method (RORO or container)
- The time of year
- The shipping company
On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $5,000 to ship a car overseas from the United States. However, getting quotes from multiple shipping companies is important to get the best price.
How much does shipping a truck from the West Coast to the East Coast cost?
You can expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,500 to ship a standard-sized truck from the West Coast to the East Coast using open transport. Enclosed transport will cost more, typically between $2,000 and $3,000.
How can I save money on my car shipping quote?
Here are some tips to save money on your car shipping quote:
1. Be flexible with your shipping dates: If you can be flexible with your pickup and delivery dates, you may be able to secure a lower rate. Shipping during off-peak or weekdays is often cheaper than peak seasons or weekends.
2. Compare quotes from multiple companies: Get quotes from different car shipping companies and compare their rates. This will help you find the best deal and negotiate a lower price.
3. Choose open transport: Open transport is generally more affordable than enclosed transport. While it may expose your car to the elements, it is a safe and reliable option for most vehicles.
4. Opt for terminal-to-terminal shipping: Door-to-door shipping is convenient but can be more expensive. If you're willing to drop off and pick up your car at a terminal, you can save money on your quote.
5. Remove unnecessary items from your car: Car shipping companies may charge extra for personal items left in the car during transport. Remove any non-essential items to avoid additional fees.
6. Book in advance: Planning ahead and booking your car shipping services in advance can often result in lower rates. Last-minute bookings may be more expensive due to limited availability.
7. Consider consolidated shipping: If your car is not time-sensitive, you can save money by opting for consolidated shipping. This means your car will be shipped along with other vehicles heading in the same direction, reducing costs.
Remember always to do your research, read customer reviews, and choose a reputable car shipping company that offers competitive rates and quality service.
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