Shipping a Travel Trailer Across Country: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shipping a travel trailer across country can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. According to the average cost of shipping a travel trailer, you can expect to pay between $1,500 to $3,000 for a cross-country move.

First, you'll need to decide on a shipping method, which can be either open or enclosed transport. Open transport is the most common and cost-effective option, but it's not suitable for travel trailers with high-value items or large windows. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, provides added protection and security, but it's more expensive and often required for luxury travel trailers.

To prepare your travel trailer for shipping, you'll need to remove any personal belongings, clean the interior, and secure any loose items. This will help prevent damage during transit and ensure a smooth delivery process.

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The cost of shipping a travel trailer across the country can vary depending on several factors. The average cost to ship a travel trailer is $3.39 per mile under 100 miles, and $0.95 per mile under 1000 miles.

Distance is a major factor in determining the cost of shipping a travel trailer. The farther the distance, the higher the cost. For example, shipping a travel trailer from Los Angeles to New York could cost between $3,500 to $10,500, depending on the factors mentioned above.

The type of RV also affects the cost of shipping. Larger RVs, such as Class A motorhomes, typically cost more to ship than smaller RVs, like Class B camper vans. Shipping a Class A motorhome can cost between $1.00 and $1.50 per mile, while shipping a Class C motorhome can cost between $0.75 and $1.25 per mile.

The shipping method also plays a role in determining the cost. Open shipping is more economical, but your RV will be exposed to the elements during transport. Enclosed shipping provides more protection for your RV, but it is more expensive.

Here are some estimated prices for shipping a travel trailer across the country:

Keep in mind that these estimates are based on small sedans and are subject to change according to season, market fluctuations, and transport type.

Creating a shipment listing with details about your camper and pickup and delivery needs is the first step in finding the right travel trailer transporters.

Include the dimensions of your trailer, and any notable issues, to ensure the transporters know if they have the right equipment to safely move your camper.

You'll start getting trailer delivery cost estimates from professional carriers after your listing is posted, so be prepared to compare rates and services.

Remove any personal belongings and unnecessary items from the RV to reduce weight and potential damage during transport.

Secure all loose items inside the RV to prevent them from moving during transport.

Make sure the RV's gas tank is less than a quarter full and disconnect the battery before shipping.

Close latches of cabinets, doors, and windows.

If your RV has slide-outs, lock them and secure all your doors, windows, external pop-ups, and chains.

Check turn signals, indicator lights, parking brakes, and parking lights; make sure they are fully functional.

Check your tire air pressure and additional safety measures like airbags and emergency brakes.

Check fluid levels of engine oil, power steering fluid, brake oil, transmission fluid, and coolant.

Remove any personal items that are important for you or maybe needed while the vehicle is in transit.

Turn off and unplug all electronics. Don't forget to disconnect the gas and power supply.

Make sure that all times you are planning to ship inside the RV are properly packed and secured, so they will not damage the interior.

If your RV will be driven away or towed away, make sure that wheels, engine, fluids, brakes are in good condition.

Here's a quick checklist to help you prepare your RV for shipping:

Creating a shipment listing on uShip is a great way to get accurate and affordable shipping rates for your travel trailer. Include the dimensions of your trailer and any notable issues to ensure the transporters know what they're getting into.

You'll start receiving trailer delivery cost estimates from professional carriers after your listing is posted. It's a good idea to review the carrier's profile to see their services, rating, and feedback.

To compare rates, take a look at the quotes from each carrier and review the carrier's profile. You can also ask the transporters questions directly on the quotes they provide you.

Accepting a quote is the final step in booking your carrier. Once you've found a trailer transport company you like with a shipping rate that works for your budget, you're ready to book them.

Consider drive-away shipping if you want the easiest option, but be aware that it's not the cheapest way to ship a travel trailer.

There are different types of shipping methods to choose from, including drive-away, hauling, and more. Drive-away shipping is the most straightforward, where you hire an experienced driver to transport your trailer from your exact location to your exact delivery address.

If you have a smaller RV, consider flatbed shipping as it can be more affordable.

You can also choose between open transport and enclosed transport, with open transport often being cheaper than enclosed transport.

At Interstate Haulers, they take pride in providing safe and efficient trailer shipping services, so you can rest assured that your trailer will arrive securely and on time every time.

Drive-Away is probably the easiest shipping method for travel trailers.

You'll hire an experienced driver to transport your vehicle from your exact location to your exact delivery address, which can be anywhere.

This method is not the cheapest option, but it's a convenient choice for those who want a hassle-free experience.

The driver will take care of the logistics, so you can sit back and relax while your trailer is delivered safely to its destination.

With drive-away, you don't have to worry about loading or unloading your trailer, as the driver will handle everything.

You can expect to pay a premium for this service, but it's worth it for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your trailer is in good hands.

Choosing a shipping method can be overwhelming, especially if you're shipping a trailer or RV. Our team at Compare the Carrier has done the research for you, so you can make an informed decision.

We collaborate with top companies from all corners of the country, so you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget. Our team checks the company on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to make sure they are registered, bonded, and have active insurance on file.

We also check how long the company has been in business, and whether its drivers have clean driving records. And of course, we look through their reviews on Transport Review, TrustPilot, Google, Yelp, and others.

Our service is absolutely free, and you don't need to pay anything to simply request a quote on our website. You only need to provide the zip-codes for pick up and drop off location, the vehicle details, and your email and/or phone number.

Drive-away is probably the easiest type of shipping, but it's not the cheapest one.

You can hire an experienced driver to drive your vehicle from your exact location to your exact delivery address, which can be anywhere.

Consider open transport, it's often cheaper than enclosed transport.

Flatbed shipping can be more affordable for smaller RVs.

Specialized RV transporters are a good option for larger RVs, they have the equipment and expertise to handle them.

Compare The Carrier collaborates with top companies from all corners of the country, so you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

Our team checks the company's registration, bonding, and insurance on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to ensure they meet the necessary requirements.

Shipping a travel trailer across the country can be a complex process, but understanding the basics can make it more manageable.

First, you'll need to get an estimate of trailer shipping rates from a reputable trailer shipping company, which will depend on the trailer size and weight.

The cost of shipping will also vary depending on the trailer type, with different types of trailers requiring different types of rigs, such as tractor-trailer rigs for larger semi-trailers.

Safety is a top priority when shipping a trailer, and trailer shipping companies must adhere to mandatory measures to ensure the trailer arrives safely at its destination without damage or theft risk.

Trailer shipping companies typically consider trailer size and weight factors when providing service quotes, as well as the distance between pick-up and drop-off locations.

In addition to these factors, they may also consider any possible obstacles that might prolong delivery times or complicate the process further.

All relevant state laws must be followed for legal purposes related to cross-country transportation of goods, including those transported via trailers.

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Tracking and communication are crucial aspects of shipping a travel trailer across country. You should maintain open communication with the shipping company to ensure a smooth experience.

Road transport, which is often the most convenient method, can be affected by local regulations and tolls, so it's essential to stay informed about any changes.

Ideally, the shipping company should keep you updated on any problems the driver encounters, and you should be able to reach out to the driver if anything changes on your end, like a travel delay.

Tracking your trailer's journey can be a stressful experience, especially if you're shipping it across the country. You can expect regular updates on its status, but the frequency of these updates may vary depending on the shipping method you choose.

Road transport is often the most convenient method, but it's also the most expensive due to distance, local regulations, and tolls. With rail transport, you can expect longer transit times and multiple stops along the way.

Sea freight is usually the least expensive option, but it's also the slowest since it requires port-to-port shipping by boat.

Establishing communication with the shipping company is crucial to ensure a smooth RV transport experience. The shipping company should inform you of any problems the driver encounters, as this can prevent errors.

You should know exactly when and where you're meeting with the driver to drop off your RV at the end of the journey. This is where clear communication comes into play.

Faulty communication is the primary cause of shipping errors, which can be easily avoided. In fact, the majority of shipping errors stem from this issue.

If you need to make changes to your travel plans, reach out to the driver and let them know. This will help prevent any misunderstandings or delays.

Shipping a travel trailer across the country can be a daunting task, but with the right precautions, you can ensure a safe and successful journey. Always ensure your trailer and loose items are securely fastened onto the carrier using quality straps or chains before transport.

Checking the straps and chains frequently for signs of wear or tear is crucial to prevent accidents. Make routine vehicle maintenance checks before departure to avoid any issues on the road.

Inspecting all hitch components before attaching your trailer is essential to avoid any damage. Keep a copy of all pertinent documents, including insurance papers, with you at all times.

Being mindful of weather conditions when planning trips is vital to avoid any potential hazards. Inform your carrier of any special instructions to ensure a smooth transport.

Here are the key safety tips to keep in mind:

By following these simple safety tips, you can ensure a safe and successful journey for your travel trailer.

Shipping a travel trailer across country can be a daunting task, but with some planning and knowledge, you can save yourself a lot of headaches and money.

First, choose the right trailer for the job. A lightweight trailer with a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) under 5,000 pounds is ideal for cross-country shipping.

Consider hiring a professional shipping company to handle the logistics, as they often have experience with oversized loads and can provide a more reliable service.

Before hiring a shipping company, get multiple quotes to compare prices and services. Some companies may offer discounts for military personnel or students, so it's worth asking about any available promotions.

Make sure to also research the company's insurance options and liability policies, as you'll want to be protected in case of any damage or loss during transport.

Be prepared to pay anywhere from $1 to $3 per mile, depending on the size and weight of your trailer, as well as the shipping company's rates and services.

Keep in mind that shipping a trailer can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more, depending on the distance and shipping method chosen.

It's also essential to check the trailer's condition before shipping, as any existing damage may be exacerbated during transport.

Shipping a travel trailer across the country requires careful planning and research. You'll want to choose a reputable company that specializes in RV transportation.

AutoStar Transport Express is a top choice, offering customized shipping plans and real-time updates throughout the process. They use the latest technology and equipment to ensure safe and secure transportation.

Compare The Carrier is another great resource, connecting you with top RV hauling companies and providing free quotes with no obligation to pay. Simply submit your zip codes, vehicle details, and contact information to receive quotes from multiple companies.

Tow-away trailer transport services are often the cheapest option, but may result in more road wear on your camper's tires. Flatbed camper hauling provides more protection, but can be more expensive.

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Interstate Haulers is a reliable option for transporting your RV or travel trailer. They have trucks equipped with the latest safety features and are inspected by a certified third-party inspector before hitting the road.

Their team of experienced drivers is trained to handle any trailer load, ensuring your trailer arrives safely and on time. They understand the importance of prompt delivery for businesses and offer expedited shipping options for those with urgent needs.

Their 24/7 customer service representatives can help you plan and schedule your shipment accordingly. Interstate Haulers also offer a range of trailer options, including step deck trailers, which are ideal for transporting tall campers.

These trailers are closer to the ground, allowing for safe transportation without worrying about being over the maximum height under bridges and overpasses.

Ask for discounts or promotions that the car shipping company may offer. This can help you save money on RV shipping.

Compare rates and services from different shipping companies to use as leverage in your negotiation. This will give you a solid foundation to make an informed decision.

Be open to negotiating the pick-up and delivery dates to find a more affordable option. This flexibility can help you save money without sacrificing the quality and safety of the service.

To find the right shipping company, compare the carrier's RV hauling benefits. They'll work with top companies to find the one that suits your needs and budget.

Before choosing a company, check if they're registered, bonded, and have active insurance on file with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This ensures they're a reputable and safe choice.

A company's longevity in business and clean driving records are also important factors to consider. Look for these details when researching potential shipping companies.