Published November 15, 2025

Why Do Some Auto Transport Companies Charge Extra Fees for SUVs and Trucks?

Shipping an SUV or truck? Learn why larger vehicles cost more to transport and how AMG Transport Co. ensures transparent pricing for your vehicle shipment.

Why Do Some Auto Transport Companies Charge Extra Fees for SUVs and Trucks?

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Why Do Some Auto Transport Companies Charge Extra Fees for SUVs and Trucks?\n\nAlright, let's talk about something many folks scratch their heads over. You get a quote to ship your car, and then you mention it's an SUV or a truck, and suddenly the price jumps. What gives? It's not some scheme to squeeze more money out of you. It's just how the auto transport industry works. And as a Logistics Manager here at AMG Transport Co., with my parent company AMG Endeavors being a carrier, I've seen it all. We understand both sides of the coin.\n\n## Size and Weight Matter on the Open Road\n\nThink about it Logically. A carrier truck has a finite amount of space and a limited weight capacity. It's not an infinite black hole. When you're shipping a compact sedan, it takes up less space and weighs less than, say, a Ford F-350 dually. This isn't rocket science. \n\n### How Space Impacts Pricing\n\nCarriers are trying to maximize their loads. More vehicles per run mean more profit. If an SUV or a large pickup takes up the space of one and a half or even two smaller cars, that's less money the carrier can make on that trip. They factor this into their pricing. It’s about opportunity cost. \n\nFor example, an open car carrier transport cost for a sedan from Houston to Los Angeles will be less than shipping a large SUV on the same route. The carrier can fit more sedans on that trailer. This impacts everything from car shipping services Texas to nationwide vehicle shipping door to door.\n\n### The Weight Factor\n\nWeight is even more critical. Every state has strict weight limits for commercial vehicles. Overweight loads mean hefty fines for carriers. Hefty fines mean disgruntled carriers and more expensive rates over time. An SUV or truck weighs significantly more than a standard car. This extra weight can quickly push a carrier close to or even over legal limits, especially when they're trying to haul a full load. \n\nSometimes, a carrier might even have to leave a space empty on their trailer to accommodate an extremely heavy vehicle. That’s lost revenue for them, and they cover that loss by charging more for the heavier vehicle. So, when you ask how much does it cost to ship a car cross country, the type of vehicle is a primary cost driver. Shipping an SUV vs. sedan cost difference isn't just a myth.\n\n## Fuel Efficiency Takes a Hit\n\nLarger, heavier vehicles also impact fuel economy. A truck hauling 8 large SUVs will burn far more diesel than one hauling 8 small cars. Fuel is one of a carrier's biggest expenses. These costs get passed on, plain and simple. What affects car shipping cost per mile? Fuel is a big one. \n\n## Maneuverability and Logistics\n\nLoading and unloading larger vehicles can sometimes be more challenging. They might require more careful positioning on the trailer, taking extra time. Time is money for carriers. Delays can push back schedules, which nobody wants when trying to ensure a smooth cross-country car transport from coast to coast.\n\n## What AMG Transport Co. Does About It\n\nAt AMG Transport Co., we're an auto transport broker focused on being a guiding light in a fraud-filled industry. We deal with these complexities daily. Our job is to bridge the gap between people like you and the carriers. Carriers, frankly, don't want to deal directly with the end-customer's problems. They're focused on the road. That's where we come in.\n\nWe provide the frontend sales, the coordinating, and the backend systems. All the things outside of maintaining and driving an 80,000-pound truck down the highway at 70 mph. And the truth is, carriers have enough problems. The roads are dangerous places, and they don't need the added headache of direct customer service.\n\n### Transparent Pricing, No Surprises\n\nWe understand that people don't like surprises. Especially when it comes to money. When you get a quote from us, whether it's for relocating to Florida ship car from Texas, or shipping a non-running vehicle what to know, we factor in these size and weight considerations from the start. We give you honest quotes. \n\nWe work with a network of vetted, insured carriers. These are the guys we have a relationship with. They're invested in taking care of our clients. When you're looking for an experienced car shipping broker you can trust, you want someone who understands how to negotiate these realities without socking you with hidden fees. Our goal is affordable car shipping without hidden fees.\n\n### How We Operate\n\nWhen you book with us, we make it smooth. We use Stripe for secure deposits. We verify details with VIN scans. We'll give you clear expectations on transit times, like how long does car shipping take cross country. We typically have a 72-hour pickup window, which helps carriers plan their routes efficiently for door pick-up and delivery car transport service.\n\nYou couldn't work with most carriers directly if you wanted to. They're set up for business-to-business. This is why working with an experienced auto transport broker Texas is not just a good idea, it's almost required for many people. We simplify what can be a very complex process.\n\nWhether you need enclosed auto transport for luxury cars, or open carrier car shipping pros & cons for your daily driver, we handle it all. From single-car transport vs multi-car load cost questions, to shipping a car from Houston to Los Angeles, we're your best auto transport company for out-of-state moves.\n\n## The Bottom Line\n\nYes, shipping an SUV or a truck generally costs more. It's not a scam. It's a logistical reality driven by space, weight, fuel, and labor. A good broker, like AMG Transport Co., anticipates these factors and includes them upfront. We build relationships with carriers, ensuring they're motivated to take care of your vehicle, whether it's a small car or a massive pickup. When you're comparing auto transport quotes how to compare, remember the value of a trusted car shipping broker reviews.\n\nIt'll never be cheap to get the job done right. But with AMG Transport Co., a Texas based auto transport broker nationwide, you get the right job done, with transparent pricing and less hassle.\n\nWhen people ask, 'how to choose a reliable auto transport broker,' the answer is simple: choose one that understands the carrier side, protects the customer side, and operates with integrity. Choose AMG Transport Co. We make vehicle logistics company Texas services simple.\n\nReady to get a solid, no-nonsense quote for your SUV or truck? Let's get it done.\n\nWritten by Mike Matthews, Logistics Manager at AMG Transport Co.

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