Electric Vehicle Shipping Services – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I ship an electric vehicle using an open carrier?
Yes, electric vehicles can be shipped using an open carrier, which is the most cost-effective method. However, for higher-value EVs or customers seeking extra protection from the elements, enclosed transport is recommended.
2. Is it safe to ship an EV if the battery is fully charged?
We recommend shipping an EV with a charge between 30%–50%. A fully charged battery is not necessary and may not be ideal due to temperature sensitivities. SAC will guide you on the optimal charge level based on the length of transit.
3. What makes EV shipping different from shipping a gas-powered car?
EVs often weigh more, have specific loading requirements, and contain high-voltage components. Our trained drivers are experienced with these nuances to ensure safe and damage-free transport.
4. Will the driver need a special license or training to handle EVs?
Yes, SAC works with carriers who are trained specifically in electric vehicle protocols. While no separate license is required, we ensure our drivers understand the operational differences, safety precautions, and battery handling practices.
5. How long does it take to ship an electric vehicle across the country?
Transit times for electric vehicle shipping vary based on distance and route. On average, cross-country shipping takes 7–10 days. Your dedicated SAC representative will provide an accurate estimate based on your pickup and delivery locations.
6. Can I track my EV while it’s being shipped?
Absolutely. SAC offers tracking and real-time updates. Your account manager will provide updates during key milestones or on request, giving you peace of mind throughout the journey.
7. What happens if my EV is damaged during shipping?
Though extremely rare, if damage does occur, SAC’s comprehensive insurance ensures you’re covered. We also assist with documentation and claims processing to resolve the issue promptly.
Electric Vehicle Shipping Pricing Info: What Affects Your EV Transport Costs
One of the most common questions we receive at Ship A Car, Inc. is: How much does it cost to ship an electric vehicle? The answer varies depending on several key factors. As a trusted authority in electric vehicle shipping, SAC believes in full transparency. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into determining your EV transport quote:
1. Distance and Route
Naturally, longer distances result in higher transport costs. However, major city-to-city routes (e.g., shipping an electric vehicle from Los Angeles to New York) tend to cost less per mile due to carrier availability and traffic volume. Less common rural routes may result in a premium. That’s because carriers prefer high-traffic corridors where they can consolidate pickups and deliveries, improving route efficiency and reducing empty return trips. In contrast, rural or remote areas often require out-of-route mileage and additional time, which increases the overall cost for electric vehicle shipping.
2. Vehicle Make and Model
Electric vehicles vary significantly in size and weight. Transporting a compact Nissan Leaf will cost less than shipping a large Tesla Model X or Rivian R1T. Larger EVs require more space and often heavier-duty trailers, which can increase pricing. For example, a Nissan Leaf weighs around 3,500 lbs, while a Tesla Model X can exceed 5,400 lbs and a Rivian R1T pushes over 7,100 lbs. These heavier EVs may reduce the number of vehicles a carrier can transport on a single load due to weight limits, which directly impacts cost.
3. Transport Type: Open vs. Enclosed
Open carriers are more affordable and suitable for most electric vehicles, but for high-end EVs like the Lucid Air or Tesla Roadster, enclosed transport provides extra protection. Enclosed electric vehicle shipping can cost 30–60% more but offers peace of mind. Enclosed carriers shield your vehicle from road debris, weather exposure, and UV damage—making them ideal for new, luxury, or collector EVs. They also often feature lift gates or low-clearance loading, which is essential for EVs with performance suspensions or aerodynamic body kits.
4. Timing and Seasonality
Electric vehicle shipping rates can fluctuate based on the season. Summer is the busiest and most expensive time, with higher demand from families relocating and college students moving. Winter brings potential weather delays and increased demand for southbound routes due to snowbirds, which can also raise prices. Spring and fall are generally more affordable, with moderate demand and fewer weather-related issues. At Ship A Car, Inc., we help customers find the best seasonal pricing by planning ahead and offering flexible scheduling when needed.
5. Vehicle Condition and Modifications
The condition of your electric vehicle and any modifications can affect the cost and method of shipping. Inoperable EVs may require winching and special equipment, which can increase the price. Low ground clearance, aftermarket wheels, or suspension modifications may also require customized loading tools or enclosed vehicle transport. Features like roof racks or spoilers can affect height and space during transport. Ship A Car, Inc. evaluates all conditions and customizations ahead of time to ensure your vehicle is handled safely and efficiently.
Sample Pricing Estimates for Electric Vehicle Shipping Services:
Route | Vehicle Type | Transport Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Los Angeles, CA to Miami, FL | Tesla Model 3 | Open Carrier | $1,200 – $1,450 |
Chicago, IL to Austin, TX | Nissan Leaf | Open Carrier | $900 – $1,100 |
New York, NY to San Francisco, CA | Lucid Air | Enclosed Carrier | $1,800 – $2,200 |
These figures are estimates. For a real-time, personalized quote, call us at (866) 821-4555 or use our online electric vehicle transport calculator.
Electric Vehicle Shipping Preparation Checklist
Proper preparation is essential to ensure a smooth and successful electric vehicle shipping experience. At Ship A Car, Inc., we’ve developed the ultimate Electric Vehicle Shipping Preparation Checklist to help our customers prepare their cars for transport and reduce potential delays.
✅ 1. Charge the Battery (But Not Fully)
Ensure your EV has a charge between 30%–50%. This is sufficient for loading, unloading, and any short-distance repositioning. A full battery can be sensitive to extreme temperatures during shipping, so it’s best to avoid overcharging. Overcharging can lead to unnecessary thermal stress on the battery pack, especially if the vehicle is exposed to fluctuating climate conditions in an open carrier. Additionally, many EV manufacturers recommend keeping the charge below 80% when the vehicle is stationary for extended periods, which aligns with best practices during transport.
✅ 2. Remove Charging Cables and Accessories (or Leave One if Necessary)
While it’s generally a good idea to remove portable charging cables, adapters, and accessories and pack them separately to prevent damage or loss, there are exceptions for electric vehicles. Sometimes the carrier may need to access a charging cable—for example, if the EV’s battery runs low or the vehicle arrives with little to no charge and needs to be powered for unloading. In these situations, leaving one portable charger with the vehicle (securely stowed and labeled) can be helpful. If you choose to do so, let your Ship A Car, Inc. account manager know in advance so the driver is informed and prepared. This added step can ensure a smooth delivery process and minimize delays.
✅ 3. Turn Off Alarm Systems
To prevent false triggers during transport, disable any alarm or anti-theft systems. This ensures a smooth loading and unloading process and avoids unnecessary delays. Alarms can be accidentally triggered by vibrations or movement on multi-vehicle carriers, which may cause unnecessary disruptions or battery drain during long hauls. Some EVs also feature motion-sensitive security systems or GPS immobilizers, so it’s important to fully disable these settings to prevent interference with the transport process.
✅ 4. Document Vehicle Condition
Take clear, high-resolution photos of your EV from all angles before pickup. Note any existing scratches, dings, or cosmetic issues. The auto transport truck driver conducts inspections at pickup and delivery, but your own records offer added peace of mind. Be sure to include close-up shots of wheels, bumpers, mirrors, and undercarriage if accessible, as these areas are most prone to incidental damage during loading or transit. We also recommend time-stamping your images and saving them in a secure folder—this documentation can be invaluable in the rare event a claim needs to be filed.
✅ 5. Lock the Car (After Loading)
Once your electric vehicle is loaded onto the carrier, you may lock it—but it’s important to note that in some cases, the driver may need access during the journey. Car transporters often carry multiple vehicles at once, and depending on the order of drop-offs and pickups, the driver may need to reposition or temporarily unload your vehicle to access others. For this reason, we recommend leaving a spare key with the driver and ensuring the vehicle is accessible if needed. Rest assured, Ship A Car, Inc. works only with vetted, insured carriers who handle all vehicles with the utmost care throughout the transport process.
✅ 6. Check Tire Pressure and Brakes
Properly inflated tires and working brakes help with secure loading and unloading. Make sure your EV is roadworthy to avoid delays or extra handling fees. Improper tire pressure can make it difficult for the driver to safely drive the vehicle onto or off of the transport ramp, especially for low-clearance EVs. Additionally, fully functional brakes are essential—not just for loading—but for stabilizing the vehicle once it’s secured on the carrier, ensuring it remains safely in place during transit.
✅ 7. Notify Your Account Manager of Any Special Instructions
If your vehicle has custom features like an air suspension system or digital access only, let your Ship A Car account manager know. This allows the driver to take proper precautions and bring necessary equipment. For example, some electric vehicles require app-based access or remote key activation, which may not function in areas with limited cellular service—our team can plan for this in advance. Additionally, vehicles with adaptive ride height or regenerative braking may require special loading techniques, so communicating these details helps us assign the most qualified carrier for your shipment.
By following this checklist, you’ll help ensure your electric vehicle shipping process is fast, efficient, and stress-free.
*All data and car shipping rates found in this article are accurate at time of publication and subject to change.
