What Special Steps Are Needed When Shipping Electric Vehicles (EVs)?
Shipping an electric vehicle? Expect hurdles gas cars don't face. Batteries add weight. Safety rules tighten. Carriers limit options. As a Texas-based auto transport broker, we've handled plenty of EVs nationwide. AMG Transport Co. knows the drill. We vet carriers for EV experience. No surprises with our honest quotes and 72-hour pickup windows.
Why Do EVs Often Cost More to Ship Than Gas Vehicles?
EVs aren't cheap to move. Batteries pack pounds. A Tesla Model 3 weighs 4,000 pounds. Compare that to a Honda Civic at 2,900. Extra heft hikes costs.
How Does Extra Battery Weight Impact Pricing?
Carriers charge by deadhead miles and load weight. Heavier EVs strain trucks. Fuel burns faster. Ramps creak under load. Expect 20-50% more than gas cars. Cross-country from Houston to LA? Gas sedan might run $1,200. EV? $1,500-$2,000. Factors like SUV vs. sedan widen the gap. Our open car carrier transport costs stay fair with vetted insured carriers.
What Route or Timing Factors Affect EV Transport Costs?
Rural routes lack chargers. Carriers detour for power. Winter slows lithium batteries. Cold drops range 40%. Summer heat risks fires. Peak season jacks rates. Ship from Texas to California? Add $300 for charging stops. Door-to-door car shipping how it works: we plan routes smart. No hidden fees.
What Battery Safety Measures Must Carriers Follow?
Lithium-ion packs ignite easy. FMCSA mandates rules. Disconnect 12V battery. Tape terminals. Secure high-voltage cables. No jump-starts. Inspect for damage pre-load. Leaks? Reject the load. Brokers like us enforce this. VIN scans confirm condition.
Are Temperature Controls Required During Transit?
Not always. But extreme heat over 140°F or cold under 32°F? Risky. Enclosed trailers buffer better. Open carriers expose to elements. High-end EVs like luxury vehicles demand enclosed auto transport. We match your EV to the right rig.
Can Standard Open or Enclosed Carriers Handle EVs Safely?
Most can. But not all. Older flatbeds balk at weight. Some carriers flat-out refuse EVs. Liability scares them. Open works for daily drivers. Enclosed for exotics—paint safe, temp stable. Pros of open: cheaper. Cons: weather hits batteries. Our Texas-based auto transport broker uses nationwide vehicle shipping door to door with EV pros.
| Carrier Type | EV Suitability | Cost | Best For |
|--------------|---------------|------|----------|
| Open | Good for most | Lower | Daily EVs |
| Enclosed | Excellent | Higher | Luxury/Premium |
What Documentation or Certifications Do You Need?
Owner's manual. Battery spec sheet. MSDS for lithium cells. Proof of charge level. Non-running? Disclose upfront—towing modes vary. Tesla needs key fob access. We handle paperwork. Stripe deposits secure your spot.
How Do Pickup and Delivery Logistics Differ for EVs?
EVs roll to ramps. But low charge? Won't budge. 20% minimum advised. Chargers at terminals rare. Delivery: plug in ASAP. Heavy weight needs winch-ready trucks. Multi-car loads? EVs tip scales—fewer per trailer. Families shipping SUVs vs. sedans pay more for bulk. Relocating to Florida from Texas? We sync with moves.
Door pick-up and delivery car transport service shines here. No public lots. Direct to your spot. How long does car shipping take cross country? 7-14 days. EVs match that with planning.
EVs demand extra steps. Skip them, face delays or damage. Brokers buffer this mess. Carriers focus on roads. We handle sales, coords, headaches. Most won't touch retail anyway—too risky. Partner with an experienced car shipping broker you can trust.
Choose AMG Transport Co. Vetted carriers. Honest quotes. No games. Texas auto transport broker nationwide. Get your EV quote today.
Written by Mike Matthews, Logistics Manager at AMG Transport Co.