Renting an RV and driving it across the country is a popular summer vacation choice for many Americans. But what if you are moving across the country but don't want to drive your RV the whole way? Having your RV shipped by an auto hauling company is the perfect solution!
Here are some tips for safely shipping a RV.
How to find a good company to ship your RV
If you're considering transporting your RV cross country, there are a few things you need to know first.
There are many different RV hauling companies out there, and it's important to do your research before choosing one. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an RV transporting company:
- For starters, you'll need to find a reputable RV hauling company. Many companies out there offer this service, so take some time to research your options. Make sure to read reviews and compare prices before making your decision.
- Make sure the company is insured and licensed. This is important in case of any accidents or damage during moving.
- Ask about their experience. Find out how long they've been in business and how many RVs they've transported.
- Once you've found a company you're comfortable with, the next step is to get your RV ready for transportation. This means ensuring all of your belongings are packed up and secured so they don't shift during transit. You'll also want to disconnect any utilities and make sure everything is turned off.
- When the day of shipment arrives, be on hand to answer any questions the driver may have. Once everything is loaded up, you'll be on your way to your final destination.
Advantages of using RV transport companies
- One advantage of using an auto-hauling company to move your RV is that you won't have to worry about gas prices. Gas prices can fluctuate, and if you're driving your RV cross-country, it's important to budget for gas. With an auto hauling company, you'll know the price upfront, and you won't have to worry about unexpected increases in gas prices.
- Another advantage is that auto transporting companies have specialized equipment for transporting RVs. This means that your RV will be safe and secure during transport. You can also rest assured knowing that your RV will be handled by professionals who know how to load and unload vehicles properly.
- Finally, using RV shipping companies can give you peace of mind. You won't have to worry about driving your RV for long periods, and you'll know that it's in safe hands. This can be a huge relief, especially if you're moving cross-country.
An all-inclusive RV Hauling company
A-1 Auto Transport is America's top RV transportation company and the best company to ship an RV at no additional cost. We offer transportation services for RVs and motorhomes across the country.
Our services include transportation of RVs and caravans, including travel trailers, 5-wheel trailers and camper trailers.
A-1 Auto Transport has accumulated over a decade of experience transporting motor homes and RVs. We are a reliable shipping agent that you can count on.
Seven methods of RV shipping
1) RV tow-away services
If you're planning on towing your Recreational Vehicle (RV) behind a truck, you'll need to make sure you have the proper equipment. Truck tow away services use special trucks and trailers that are designed to move RVs.
These services can be used to move your RV from one location to another or to store it while you're not using it simply. In addition, truck tow away services are a great way to keep your RV in good condition and to make sure it's always available when you need it.
2) Flatbed services
Flatbed services are a type of tracking service that uses a flatbed truck with a level truck bed rather than a traditional trailer. Flatbed trucks are used for a variety of purposes, including hauling oversized or bulky loads.
A variety of trucking companies can provide flatbed services, and the cost of these services will vary depending on the company you choose and the size and type of load you need to move.
3) Driveaway services
Driveaway services are a hassle-free way to get your RV to its destination. Consider using a drive-away service. A driver will be dispatched to personally drive and send your RV with this type of service. No additional equipment or vehicles are required.
4) Step-Deck Trailers
If you're considering transporting your RV with a step-deck trailer, there are a few things you'll need to keep in mind. First, make sure the trailer is adequately equipped to handle the weight and size of your RV. Second, be aware of the clearance height of your RV when loading and unloading it onto the trailer. And finally, make sure you secure your RV properly before transportation.
When loading your RV onto the step deck trailer, it's essential to consider the trailer's weight capacity and length. The last thing you want is for your RV to become overloaded and cause damage to the trailer or, worse, injure someone. So make sure to distribute the weight of your RV evenly across the length of the trailer so that it doesn't become unbalanced.
Once your RV is loaded onto the trailer, you'll need to make sure it is properly secured. The last thing you want is for your RV to come loose during transporting and cause an accident. So make sure all the straps and tie-downs are secure and that the RV is firmly attached to the trailer.
5) Low Boy Trailers.
An RV lowboy trailer is a specialized type of trailer that is designed to move RVs, campers, and other large vehicles. Lowboy trailers are typically lower to the ground than standard trailers, making them ideal for transporting RVs and campers that are too tall to fit on a standard trailer.
Lowboy trailers can be either open or enclosed, and they typically have a ramp or liftgate that can be used to load and unload the RV or camper. Most lowboy trailers also have air brakes and suspension systems that help to keep the RV or camper secure during transportation.
6) Extendable Drop Trailers.
These trailers are designed specifically for hauling RVs, and they make the task much easier.
Extendable drop trailers have a long ramp that extends down from the trailer bed. This ramp allows you to drive your RV right up onto the trailer, making loading and unloading a breeze. And because the ramp is extendable, you don't have to worry about clearance issues – the ramp will clear any obstacles in its path.
Once your RV is loaded onto the extendable drop trailer, it will be securely fastened in place. Then you can simply hitch the trailer to your car and be on your way.
7) Vessel Trailers.
Vessel trailers are designed specifically for hauling RVs and can be a great option for those who want to move their RV long distances.
How much does it cost to move an RV?
The cost of transporting an RV can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the distance of the move, the size and weight of the RV, and whether you need to hire professional movers.
However, you can get a free quote from a number of different RV hauling companies to get an idea of how much it will cost to move your RV. Additionally, many companies offer discounts for long-distance moves.
Will my RV get damaged during shipping?
If you're worried about your RV sustaining damage during shipping, you can do a few things to help protect it.
First, make sure to choose a reputable and experienced shipping company.
Ask for references and check online reviews to get a sense of what others have said about their experience with the company.
Once you've selected a shipping company, be sure to go over the details of your insurance policy with them. Make sure you understand what is and is not covered if something happens to your RV during shipping.
In most cases, the shipping company will have its own insurance that will cover any damages that occur during transit. However, it's always a good idea to double-check and make sure that you're fully covered.
Finally, do a thorough inspection of your RV before it's loaded onto the shipping truck. Take pictures or videos of any existing damage so that you have a record of it. Then, if something happens during shipping, you'll have documentation to back up your claim.
Checklist for your RV transport preparation
- All doors, windows, and cupboards should have secure latches.
- Any items hung on the walls should be secured or removed.
- All appliances and devices should be turned off.
- Turn off the power and turn off the gas.
- Make sure the RV is free of any loose items or items hanging from the outside of the vehicle.
- Make sure that all of the parking, braking, turn signal, and indicator lights are working.
- All cargo doors, chains, and pop-ups should be latched and secured.
- If your RV has slide-outs, be sure they're locked.
- Check for leaks and fluid levels.
- The tow bar and hitch must be secure.
- Examine the battery.
- Check the pressure in all of your tires, and look for cracks and severe tread wear.
- Check that the service and parking brakes are working properly.
Wrap-up
Shipping your RV is an easy and practical way to move your RV across the country. If you'd like more information, please contact us at A-1 Auto Transport anytime. We'll be happy to answer your questions and give you a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a travel trailer across the country?
Shipping a travel trailer across the country can vary significantly in cost. For cross-country transport within the United States, prices typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more. While the cost per mile might decrease for long-distance moves, additional expenses like fuel and specialized equipment can impact the overall price. For shorter distances within a local area, you might expect to pay between $150 to $300. Many transport companies provide quotes based on these factors to ensure you get the best rate for your travel trailer’s journey.
How do I prepare my RV for transport?
Preparing your RV for transport involves several key steps to ensure it arrives safely. Here’s what you need to do:
- Remove any items hanging on the walls or loose items inside the RV.
- Disconnect all power supplies, including gas and electricity.
- Check the cargo compartments for loose items and secure them.
- Ensure that the RV is clean and free from any personal belongings.
Following these steps will help your RV move smoothly and avoid any issues during transport. Many transport companies will provide additional instructions based on your RV's specific requirements.