How to Ship an Electric Vehicle

The year on the old URL is historical. The steps are not. An electric vehicle ships like other cars, with a short extra checklist.

Before you quote

Confirm the car goes into the transport or tow mode the automaker specifies, if it has one. Confirm it can roll, steer, and brake. If it cannot, mark inoperable. Note approximate state of charge and any low splitter or air suspension that must be raised. Those notes prevent a failed load. Differences from a gas car are spelled out in EV versus gas.

Take personal chargers and cables with you if you will need them at the destination. Do not assume the trunk is a shipping container. The general rule is prepare your car.

Booking

Get A Quote with the real model. Open transport is normal unless you select enclosed. You approve the carrier before the card is charged. Booking is $0: your card is authorized and saved. Cargo coverage is the carrier’s certificate, discussed in carrier insurance.

At pickup

Show the driver anything that must not be strapped through, such as a charge-port door left open or a panel that scratches easily. Photograph the underside and the wheels if you can do it safely. Walk the same areas at delivery.

Questions people ask

Do I leave it plugged in until the driver arrives?

Unplug before loading. A car cannot be tied down while it is connected to a charger. Have it ready to roll when the window starts.

Should the battery be at a specific percent?

Use the automaker’s guidance if you have it. This site will not invent a required percent. Avoid a completely dead car that cannot be moved.

Are EVs required to ship enclosed?

No. Choose enclosed for the vehicle, not because of the powertrain. The add-on is $380.