Shipping a travel trailer isn’t as simple as mailing a package. It requires careful planning, understanding of logistical challenges, and often, the involvement of specialized transport companies. Choosing the right shipping method hinges on factors like distance, budget, trailer size, and desired level of service, ultimately demanding a calculated assessment of your specific needs to ensure a safe and cost-effective delivery.
Understanding Travel Trailer Shipping Options
Moving a travel trailer across the country or even just a few states requires more than just hitching it up and hitting the road. While towing it yourself might seem like the obvious choice, it can be time-consuming, strenuous, and even dangerous, especially for long distances or inexperienced drivers. Thankfully, several professional shipping options exist, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Flatbed Shipping
Flatbed shipping is often the most economical choice for larger travel trailers, particularly those exceeding standard towing dimensions. Your trailer is secured directly to a flatbed truck and transported, allowing for the movement of oversized and unusually shaped cargo. However, your trailer is exposed to the elements, requiring thorough preparation and potential for minor cosmetic damage.
Step Deck Trailer
A step deck trailer, also known as a drop deck, is a type of flatbed trailer with a lower deck height, facilitating the transport of taller loads. This option is beneficial if your travel trailer has significant height and exceeds legal height restrictions on standard flatbeds. Similar to flatbed shipping, it offers affordability but exposes the trailer to weather conditions.
Enclosed Transport
For maximum protection, enclosed transport is the premium option. Your travel trailer is fully enclosed within a trailer, shielded from weather, road debris, and potential damage. This method offers the highest level of security and preservation, making it ideal for valuable or vintage trailers. However, it comes at a significantly higher cost.
Towing Services
Professional towing services offer a driver and vehicle specifically designed to tow travel trailers. This option allows you to avoid the hassle of driving yourself while maintaining the benefits of traditional towing, such as familiarity with the process and greater control over the route. It’s typically more expensive than flatbed shipping but less so than enclosed transport.
Preparing Your Travel Trailer for Shipping
Regardless of the chosen shipping method, preparing your travel trailer is crucial to ensuring a safe and damage-free journey. This involves a thorough inspection, securing loose items, and taking precautions to minimize the risk of accidents.
Interior and Exterior Inspection
Begin with a comprehensive inspection of both the interior and exterior. Document any existing damage with photos and notes, as this will be essential for filing any potential insurance claims later. Check tire pressure, inspect lights and brakes, and ensure that all doors, windows, and hatches are securely closed and locked.
Securing Loose Items
Inside the trailer, secure all loose items to prevent them from shifting or falling during transport. Empty cabinets and drawers, or at least secure the contents. Pad fragile items with blankets or bubble wrap. Consider using straps or ropes to secure larger items to prevent them from moving around.
Disconnecting Utilities and Appliances
Disconnect all utilities, including propane tanks, water lines, and electrical connections. Drain water tanks to reduce weight and prevent potential leaks. Secure or remove any exterior appliances, such as antennas or awnings, to prevent damage during transit. Turn off and unplug all internal appliances.
Choosing a Shipping Company
Selecting the right shipping company is perhaps the most critical aspect of shipping your travel trailer. Due diligence is paramount to ensure you partner with a reputable and reliable provider.
Research and Reviews
Thoroughly research potential shipping companies by reading online reviews, checking their ratings with the Better Business Bureau, and verifying their licensing and insurance. Look for companies with experience in shipping travel trailers and a proven track record of safe and reliable service.
Get Multiple Quotes
Obtain quotes from multiple shipping companies to compare pricing and services. Be sure to provide accurate information about your travel trailer’s dimensions, weight, and desired delivery location to receive an accurate estimate. Ask about additional fees, such as fuel surcharges or insurance costs.
Verify Insurance and Licensing
Confirm that the shipping company is properly licensed and insured to transport your travel trailer. Request copies of their insurance certificates and licensing documents for your records. This will protect you in the event of damage or loss during transit.
FAQs About Shipping Travel Trailers
Q1: How much does it cost to ship a travel trailer?
The cost varies depending on distance, trailer size, shipping method, and the chosen company. Expect to pay anywhere from $1.00 to $5.00 per mile for flatbed or towing services, and significantly more for enclosed transport. Shorter distances will generally have a higher cost per mile than longer distances.
Q2: What documents do I need to ship my travel trailer?
You’ll typically need the trailer’s registration, title, and proof of insurance. The shipping company may also require a bill of sale or other documentation to verify ownership. Provide the shipping company with contact information for both yourself and the recipient at the delivery location.
Q3: How long does it take to ship a travel trailer?
Transit time depends on the distance and the shipping company’s schedule. Generally, expect a few days for shorter distances and up to several weeks for cross-country moves. Discuss estimated delivery times with potential shippers before making a decision.
Q4: What are the size and weight restrictions for shipping a travel trailer?
Legal size and weight limits vary by state and can impact shipping costs. Generally, a standard travel trailer should not exceed 8.5 feet in width, 13.5 feet in height, and 40 feet in length. Weight restrictions typically depend on the type of trailer and the shipping vehicle. Any trailer exceeding these dimensions will require special permits and potentially more expensive shipping.
Q5: What if my travel trailer has modifications or accessories?
Inform the shipping company about any modifications or accessories, such as solar panels, satellite dishes, or custom racks. These additions may affect the trailer’s dimensions, weight, or the required shipping method. Ensure they are properly secured and protected.
Q6: What is “over-dimensional” shipping?
“Over-dimensional” shipping refers to transporting items that exceed standard size or weight limits. Travel trailers exceeding these limits require special permits, escorts, and potentially specialized equipment, which can significantly increase shipping costs.
Q7: Can I track my travel trailer during shipping?
Most reputable shipping companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor your travel trailer’s progress in real-time. This provides peace of mind and allows you to anticipate the delivery date.
Q8: What happens if my travel trailer is damaged during shipping?
Before the shipping company takes possession, document the trailer’s condition. If damage occurs during shipping, document it thoroughly with photos and immediately notify the shipping company and your insurance provider. File a claim with the shipping company and provide all necessary documentation.
Q9: What is a Bill of Lading (BOL)?
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is a crucial document that serves as a receipt for the shipped goods (your travel trailer). It outlines the shipping terms, the origin and destination, the description of the trailer, and the responsibilities of the shipper and carrier. Carefully review the BOL before signing it.
Q10: Should I winterize my travel trailer before shipping?
If shipping during cold weather, winterizing your trailer is highly recommended to prevent damage from freezing pipes. This involves draining all water lines, adding antifreeze, and taking other precautions to protect against cold temperatures.
Q11: Can I ship personal belongings inside my travel trailer?
While technically possible, many shipping companies discourage shipping personal belongings inside the travel trailer due to liability concerns. If you choose to do so, ensure that all items are securely packed and properly insured. The company may not be liable for damage to unsecured items.
Q12: How do I prepare the tires for shipping?
Ensure that the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. If the trailer will be sitting for an extended period, consider placing it on blocks to prevent tire damage. Have the shipper inspect the tires before transport, noting any existing wear or damage.