Ship Your Electric Vehicle with EV-Specialized Carriers
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Electric Vehicle Shipping – Tesla, Rivian & EV Transport
Shipping an electric vehicle comes down to charge level, weight, winter conditions and a few settings to change before pickup. We’ve been helping people ship vehicles since 1999, and EVs have become one of the fastest-growing categories we see — we put your shipment in front of vetted, licensed auto transport companies, and they compete with their best offers. You choose, and you can ask each one about its EV experience.
Why EV Shipping Is Different
Electric vehicles aren’t just cars with a different powertrain — they’re heavier, have unique thermal management requirements, and come with onboard software systems that need to be configured properly before transport. A Tesla Model Y, for instance, weighs roughly 4,400 lbs compared to a similarly sized Toyota RAV4 at 3,600 lbs. That 800-lb difference matters when it comes to carrier capacity and pricing.
Tesla’s own manual for transporters says a flatbed is the recommended method and that all four tires should be off the ground. Ask the company you book with how it loads and secures your model, and whether it has moved it before.
EV Shipping Prep Checklist
Before your carrier arrives, complete these steps to ensure a smooth pickup:
- Mid-range charge, not full and not empty — The car needs enough charge to be driven on and off the trailer and repositioned. Ask the company you book with what level it wants and follow your owner’s manual. Our blog post on shipping an electric vehicle in 2026 explains the reasoning.
- Turn off Sentry Mode and alarms (Tesla and others) — People walking around the car during loading can set them off, and they use charge. Turn them off before pickup unless the company says otherwise.
- Turn Off Summon & Auto-Park — Any feature that could cause the vehicle to move autonomously must be disabled. This includes Smart Summon, Auto Park, and similar features on Rivian, Lucid, and other brands.
- Fold Mirrors & Retract Handles — Most EVs have auto-presenting door handles and folding mirrors. Set these to manual or retracted mode to prevent damage during loading.
- Unplug and leave the cable in the car — Tesla notes that Tow Mode, used to winch the car onto a flatbed, is not available while the car is plugged in. Stow your cable in the frunk or trunk.
- Document Everything — Take dated photos of all panels, wheels, glass, and the dashboard SOC reading before the carrier arrives. This is your baseline for the condition report.
Electric Vehicles You Can Ship
Tesla
- Model 3 & Model 3 Highland
- Model Y
- Model S & Model S Plaid
- Model X
- Cybertruck
- Tesla Semi
Rivian, Lucid & Premium
- Rivian R1T & R1S
- Lucid Air & Gravity
- Porsche Taycan
- BMW iX & i4
- Mercedes EQS & EQE
- Audi e-tron GT
Mainstream EVs
- Ford Mustang Mach-E
- Ford F-150 Lightning
- Chevy Bolt EV & EUV
- Chevy Equinox EV & Blazer EV
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 & 6
- Kia EV6 & EV9
- Volkswagen ID.4
- Hummer EV Pickup & SUV
Don’t see your EV listed? Every electric vehicle on the market can ship, including plug-in hybrids. Call us at (800) 930-7417 or get a free quote online.
Electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid models by brand
The electric and hybrid models we cover, with what matters for each. A hybrid ships like the gas car it is based on; a plug-in hybrid or EV needs some charge left so it can be driven on and off the trailer. Hybrid pickups and SUVs are listed with their gas versions on the pickup and SUV pages. Each model opens to show its notes.
Models people request quotes for most
The electric and hybrid models people asked us for estimates on most often in the last two years, from our own estimate requests. It shows what people asked about, not what was shipped.
Audi
Audi e-tron (Q8 e-tron)
2019–2024
A large electric SUV. Heavy for its size; it may come with air suspension, so ship it at normal ride height with a partial charge.
BMW
BMW i3
2014–2021 (U.S.)
A small electric city car, some with a range-extender engine. Short range, so do not let it run low before pickup.
BMW i4
2022–present
An electric four-door Gran Coupe, priced in the sedan class. Ship with a partial charge.
BMW iX
2022–present
A midsize electric SUV. Leave it with a partial charge; many owners choose enclosed for a new one.
Cadillac
Cadillac Lyriq
2023–present
A midsize electric luxury SUV. Ship with a partial charge; enclosed is common for a new one.
Chevrolet
Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV
2017–2023
A small electric hatchback and crossover. Bolts built through 2022 were covered by a battery recall; have the recall status handy, because some companies ask.
Chevrolet Equinox EV
2024–present
An electric compact crossover, priced in the SUV class. Ship it with the battery partly charged, not full.
Ford
Ford Mustang Mach-E
2021–present
An electric crossover, heavier than a gas SUV of the same size because of the battery. Priced in the SUV class.
Hyundai
Hyundai Ioniq (hybrid, plug-in and electric)
2017–2022 (U.S.)
A compact hatchback sold in three powertrains. The hybrid ships like a gas car; the plug-in and electric versions need some charge.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
2022–present
An electric crossover, priced in the SUV class. Leave it with a partial charge.
Jeep
Jeep Wrangler 4xe
2021–present
A plug-in hybrid Wrangler. Leave some charge and fuel, put the doors and top back on, and mention a lift.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz EQS
2022–present
A large electric luxury sedan (and SUV) on air suspension. Ship at normal ride height with a partial charge; most go enclosed.
Nissan
Nissan Leaf
Since late 2010
One of the first mass-market EVs, redesigned for 2018 and again as a small crossover for 2026. Older Leafs have short range; ship with a partial charge and do not let it drop near empty.
Polestar
Polestar 2
2021–present
An electric fastback sedan, priced in the sedan class. Ship with a partial charge.
Porsche
Porsche Taycan
2020–present
A low electric sports sedan. Most go enclosed on a liftgate trailer; leave a partial charge.
Rivian
Rivian R1S and R1T
2022–present
An electric three-row SUV and pickup, both heavy for their size. The R1T is priced like a pickup; give the exact model so offers come from companies with the weight allowance.
Tesla
Tesla Cybertruck
2024–present
A heavy, wide electric pickup. It is often moved on a flatbed or priced as oversize; give the exact model when you request your estimate.
Tesla Model 3
2017–present
An electric sedan, priced in the sedan class. Turn off Sentry Mode before pickup; if it cannot be driven, Tesla's Transport Mode lets it roll for winching.
Tesla Model S and Model X
S 2012–present, X 2016–present
The larger Teslas. The Model X and most Model S cars ride on air suspension: ship at normal ride height. The Model X falcon-wing doors need clearance to open, which the driver should know. Many owners choose enclosed.
Tesla Model Y
2020–present
The electric model people request estimates for most in our data. A compact crossover, priced in the SUV class. Turn off Sentry Mode, leave a partial charge, and hand over a key card.
Toyota
Toyota bZ4X
2023–present
Toyota's electric compact crossover, priced in the SUV class. Ship with a partial charge.
Toyota Prius
2001–present (U.S.)
The best-known hybrid, in its fifth generation since 2023. A regular hybrid ships exactly like a gas compact.
Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid and Prius Prime
Plug-in 2012–2015; Prime since 2017
The plug-in Prius. It falls back on its gas engine, so charge level matters less than for a full EV; leave some of both.
Toyota RAV4 Prime (plug-in hybrid)
2021–present
The plug-in RAV4, heavier than the regular hybrid because of its larger battery. Priced in the SUV class; leave some charge.
No models in this list match.
More electric and hybrid models by brand
Chevrolet
Chevrolet Volt
2011–2019
A plug-in hybrid with a gas engine that takes over when the battery is empty, so a low charge does not stop it loading. Leave some fuel and some charge.
Hyundai
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Sold since 2011
A regular hybrid: it charges itself and ships exactly like a gas Sonata.
Toyota
Toyota Prius c
2012–2019 (U.S.)
The small Prius, about subcompact size. One of the easiest cars to ship.
Toyota Prius v
2012–2017 (U.S.)
A larger, wagon-style Prius. Ships like a gas compact wagon.
No models in this list match.
EV Shipping Costs & Pricing
Electric vehicles can cost more to ship than their gas-powered equivalents. The reason is weight: EV battery packs add hundreds of pounds, and a loaded car hauler is held to a federal limit of 80,000 pounds, so a load of heavy EVs can mean fewer cars per trip. Our formula has no separate EV surcharge; it prices by vehicle class, and the company you book with prices the exact model. Here are current estimate ranges for a 2,500-mile move, by the vehicle class each model falls into:
| Vehicle | Approx. curb weight | Class used | Open, 2,500 mi | Enclosed, 2,500 mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 | 3,862 lbs | Sedan / coupe | $1,430 – $1,930 | $2,140 – $2,890 |
| Lucid Air | 4,536 lbs | Sedan / coupe | $1,430 – $1,930 | $2,140 – $2,890 |
| Tesla Model Y | 4,398 lbs | SUV / crossover | $1,600 – $2,160 | $2,400 – $3,240 |
| Tesla Model X | 4,766 lbs | SUV / crossover | $1,600 – $2,160 | $2,400 – $3,240 |
| Tesla Cybertruck | 6,843 lbs | Pickup / large SUV | $1,780 – $2,410 | $2,670 – $3,620 |
| Rivian R1T | 7,148 lbs | Pickup / large SUV | $1,780 – $2,410 | $2,670 – $3,620 |
Metro pickup and delivery, no strong north-south direction. Regional and short-distance moves cost less. See the full tables on the shipping cost estimator and how the numbers are built on How We Estimate.
Formula v2026.09.2 · EIA U.S. diesel $6.13/gal, week of Nov 9, 2026, 52-week average $4.97 · November pricing · road distance as stated.
Estimate, not a quote. Produced automatically by our published formula from public data; your price comes from the licensed auto transport partner you choose. How we estimate · Get your free estimate
Fuel: U.S. Energy Information Administration. Routing: © OpenStreetMap contributors (OSRM). ZIP locations: U.S. Census Bureau.
Questions about this estimate? Call (800) 930-7417
Winter Range, Weight and Battery Care in Transit
Winter range
The U.S. Department of Energy’s fueleconomy.gov reports that in mixed driving at 20°F an EV’s range can drop by about 41%, about two-thirds of the extra energy goes to heating the cabin, and with the cabin heater off range is about 12% lower. AAA’s 2019 test found over 40% with the heater on. A car on a hauler is not being driven, but it can sit cold for days, so charge soon after delivery and expect lower range on the first drive in winter.
Weight
Federal rules cap a loaded trailer at 80,000 pounds gross weight, and car haulers have told Congress and regulators that heavy EVs force them to split loads across more trucks. The Drive reported in 2022 that the F-150 Lightning weighs about 1,600 lb more than the gas F-150. That is why the same-size EV can price higher than a gas car, and why you should give the exact model and trim.
Temperature and handling
NHTSA notes that extreme temperatures can hurt EV battery performance and shorten battery life, and that a high-voltage battery should be treated as energized after damage. It also says towing can damage an EV through its drive axle, so check the owner’s manual for approved methods. Tesla’s transporter instructions call a flatbed the recommended method. If the car is in a very hot or cold place at pickup, tell the company.
What to Ask the Company You Book With
- Have you moved my make and model, and how do you load and secure a heavy EV?
- What charge level do you want at pickup?
- Which trailer will it ride on, and will it ride alone or with other cars?
- What is your cargo insurance limit per vehicle, and is there a deductible? Can I see the certificate?
- Does the price you gave include the weight of my trim?
You can check any company’s operating authority and insurance on file in FMCSA’s Licensing and Insurance system.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport for EVs
The same rules that apply to gas vehicles apply here — the choice comes down to value and peace of mind:
- Open Transport — The standard choice for mainstream EVs (Model 3, Model Y, Bolt, Ioniq 5 and similar). Your EV rides on a standard multi-car carrier alongside other vehicles. Affordable and the most common choice. Learn more about open auto transport.
- Enclosed Transport — Worth considering for higher-value EVs and new paint, such as a Model S Plaid, Model X, Lucid Air, Porsche Taycan or Rivian. Full protection from weather, road debris, and UV exposure. Read more about enclosed auto transport.
Not sure which option is right for your EV? Read our complete open vs. enclosed comparison guide.
EV Shipping FAQs
An EV can cost more to ship than a comparable gas car because the battery pack adds weight and a car hauler has a fixed weight limit. The cost table on this page shows current estimate ranges for a 2,500-mile move by vehicle class, built from our published formula. Enclosed transport adds 50% in that formula. The companies that make offers price the exact model, so give the make, model and trim when you request your estimate.
A mid-range charge is the common advice: well above empty so the car can be driven on and off the trailer and repositioned, and not at 100%. Many shippers ask for roughly a quarter to a half of a charge, but companies differ, so ask the one you book with what it wants and check your owner's manual. A car hauler has no charging, so the charge you leave is the charge you have at delivery.
Turn it off unless the company you book with tells you otherwise. Sentry Mode keeps cameras and alarms active, which people walking around the car during loading and unloading can set off, and it uses battery charge. Tesla's owner's manual page for transporters does not mention it, so treat this as a practical tip and ask the company.
Enclosed is worth considering for a high-value EV such as a Model X, Rivian R1S, Lucid Air or Porsche Taycan, or a new car with fresh paint. A mainstream EV can ship open for less. The deciding factor is the car's value and finish, not the powertrain.
Yes. Electric trucks and SUVs ship regularly. They are big and heavy, so the company you book with may price them as oversize or need a particular trailer. Give the exact model and any accessories when you request your estimate.
It depends on the car, but the U.S. Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov says range can drop by about 41% in mixed driving at 20°F with the heater running, and about 12% with the cabin heater off. AAA's 2019 test found a similar pattern. On a hauler the car is not being driven, so the bigger practical point is arriving with the charge you left: plan to charge soon after delivery in cold weather.
Ask whether it has moved your model before, how it loads and secures a heavy EV, what charge level it wants, whether the car will ride alone or with others, what its cargo insurance limit is, and whether the limit covers the car's value. Ask for its certificate of insurance and look the company up in FMCSA's Licensing and Insurance system.
Ready to Ship Your EV?
Tell us the make, model and route, and licensed auto transport companies compete with their best offers. You never pay us a cent.
Get your free estimateOr call (800) 930-7417
Sources
- fueleconomy.gov: Fuel Economy in Cold Weather — EV range about 41% lower in mixed driving at 20°F; 12% lower with the cabin heater off.
- U.S. DOE: The Effect of Cold Temperatures on Fuel Economy (FOTW #1164) — All-electric vehicles may lose nearly 40% of fuel economy in cold temperatures.
- Fox Business: AAA study confirms cold weather can sap electric car ranges (Feb. 7, 2019) — Range down more than 40% at 20°F with the heater on, 12% with it off.
- NHTSA: Electric and Hybrid Vehicles — Extreme temperatures and battery life; towing can damage an EV through its drive axle; treat damaged high-voltage parts as energized.
- Tesla Model 3 owner's manual: Instructions for Transporters — Flatbed recommended; all four tires off the ground; Tow Mode unavailable while plugged in.
- The Drive: EVs Are Too Heavy for Current Road Weight Limits, Car Haulers Say (Oct. 5, 2022) — 80,000 lb federal trailer cap; F-150 Lightning about 1,600 lb heavier than the gas F-150.
- FMCSA: Where to look up a carrier, broker or freight forwarder — Licensing and Insurance system carrier search.