Learn how auto transport companies handle RVs, motorcycles, and boats differently from standard cars. Insights on specialized equipment, pricing, logistics.

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How Do Auto Transport Companies Handle Special Vehicle Types Like RVs, Motorcycles, and Boats?

So, you've got an RV, a motorcycle, or a boat to move. You're probably wondering how that works. It's not like shipping your average sedan. Special vehicles need special attention. Trust me, we know. We're AMG Transport Co., a Texas-based auto transport broker nationwide. We deal with this stuff every day.

Why Special Vehicles Are Different

Standard car shipping services, like moving a car from Houston to Los Angeles, usually involve open car carriers. These are designed for cars and light trucks. RVs, motorcycles, and boats are a different beast entirely. They have unique dimensions, weights, and handling requirements. This changes everything from equipment to pricing.

When we talk about how much does it cost to ship a car cross country, standard cars are one thing. Special vehicles are another. The cost changes based on size, weight, and the type of carrier needed.

Shipping RVs

RVs are big. Really big. This is their main challenge. You can't just put an RV on a standard open car carrier. It won't fit. Not safely, anyway.

Specialized Equipment for RVs

Shipping an RV often requires a flatbed truck or a specialized lowboy trailer. These trailers are built to handle oversized vehicles. Some RVs can even be driven by a professional driver if that's the preferred method. But direct transport by trailer is usually safer and more efficient for long distances. Think about relocating to Florida, ship car from Texas, but make it an RV. That's a different project.

Factors Affecting RV Shipping Cost

Size and Weight: The bigger and heavier, the more expensive. It requires specific equipment and permits.
Distance: Cross-country car transport from coast to coast is always more costly, and RVs are no exception.
Route: Rural or difficult access points can increase the price.
Season: Peak moving seasons can drive up demand and prices.

At AMG Transport Co., we provide honest quotes. You'll know what affects car shipping cost per mile for your RV. No hidden fees.

Transporting Motorcycles

Motorcycles are smaller than RVs, but they have their own challenges. They're vulnerable to damage if not secured properly. Think about a classic car transport enclosed carrier. That same care applies to motorcycles.

Secure Motorcycle Shipping Options

Enclosed Trailer: This is the most popular choice for motorcycles. An enclosed auto transport for luxury cars or bikes protects them from weather, road debris, and theft. It's a premium service, but for a prized bike, it's worth it.
Open Trailer (with caution): Less common, but possible for shorter distances or if budget is the absolute priority. Requires extremely robust tie-downs and padding. We generally recommend enclosed for motorcycles.
Crates: For international shipping or ultimate protection, crating a motorcycle is an option. This is more of a shipping container solution.

When you're comparing open car carrier transport cost versus enclosed auto transport for luxury cars, understand that motorcycles often lean towards enclosed for safety. It's part of how to choose a reliable auto transport broker. Look for one that prioritizes safety.

Moving Boats

Boats are unique. They come in all shapes and sizes. From small fishing boats to large yachts, each presents a different logistical puzzle.

Boat Transport Solutions

Trailer Transport: Many smaller boats can be transported on their own trailers. The challenge then becomes the size and weight of the trailer itself, and ensuring it's roadworthy. Sometimes, a flatbed is still required.
Specialized Boat Carriers: Larger boats need specialized carriers designed to cradle their hulls. These carriers often require escort vehicles and special permits due to their oversized nature.
"Load and Go" vs. "Cradle and Carry": Smaller boats might be 'loaded' onto a flatbed. Larger ones will need a custom 'cradle and carry' system for safe transit.

Quick Comparison: Special Vehicle Shipping

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Shipping a non-running vehicle, whether it's a boat or an RV, adds another layer of complexity. We handle that too. It often requires winching or specialized loading equipment.

The Role of a Broker Like AMG Transport Co.

You might be thinking, "Why a broker? Why not go straight to a carrier?" Good question. Here's the deal.

Carriers are busy driving. They don't want to deal with the frontend sales, the coordinating, or the backend systems. They want to drive. Their primary value is moving vehicles. Our parent company, AMG Endeavors, is a carrier. So we know the ins and outs.

They also don't want to deal with individual customers' problems. The roads are dangerous. They have enough issues. That's why they rely on brokers to solve them.

Many people couldn't work with most carriers directly, even if they wanted to. Carriers prefer steady, high-volume work. They don't typically offer individual quotes to every Tom, Dick, and Harry with a single car to move, much less an RV. And honestly, often they don't even have the systems to do it efficiently.

That's where we come in. We are an experienced car shipping broker you can trust. We provide a stronger customer experience. We're a guiding light in a fraud-filled industry. We work to keep rates reasonable. We handle the headaches.

We provide nationwide vehicle shipping door to door. We vet our insured carriers. We offer 72-hour pickup windows. We use VIN scans for accuracy and Stripe deposits for security. We ensure your vehicle transport Texas to California, or anywhere else, is smooth.

Conclusion: Your Special Vehicle Deserves Special Care

Shipping an RV, motorcycle, or boat isn't a DIY job. It requires careful planning, the right equipment, and experienced hands. Attempting to deal directly with carriers for these specialized moves is often a losing battle. They might charge you more, or simply not be equipped to handle your specific needs efficiently. We connect you with the right carriers and coordinate every step.

At AMG Transport Co., we understand the nuances of special vehicle transport. We leverage our network of vetted, insured carriers. We ensure your valuable asset is handled professionally, safely, and efficiently. Our process is transparent, our quotes are honest, and our service is designed to take the stress off your shoulders.

Don't leave your special vehicle's transport to chance. Get a fast, free, no-obligation quote today. It's the best auto transport company for out-of-state moves for a reason.

Get started now, and let us handle the heavy lifting: https://amgtransportco.com/get-quote

Written by Mike Matthews, Logistics Manager at AMG Transport Co.

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