Electric vehicle sales rose to 1.6 million in 2024, with expectations that a new yearly record will be set by the end of the year. That means auto shipping companies are now handling more electric vehicles than ever before, while new EV owners are learning the right way to transport their cars. The process of EV or electric vehicle transport might be similar to shipping a regular car, but many major differences are crucial to know. Owners also need to know the unique challenges involved in the process.
🔋 Quick Glance
- ✔ Electric vehicles require special handling, equipment, and trained personnel.
- ✔ EV shipping costs more due to added battery weight and hazardous-cargo protocols.
- ✔ Enclosed carriers are recommended to protect EV batteries from heat and road debris.
- ✔ Keep your battery at roughly 50% before transport and prepare your EV like a regular car.
How Does Electric Car Transport Differ?
The process of transporting electric vehicles shares some similarities with regular car shipping. In both cases, the vehicle owner will need to choose the appropriate shipping method and prepare their car for shipment.
However, electric vehicles are powered by battery packs containing dangerous, flammable materials, such as lithium-ion batteries, which emit toxic gases when damaged. That means carriers need to take extra caution when loading and transporting the car.
Another major difference between regular car shipping and EV transport is that electric vehicles are roughly 30% heavier than petrol cars. Let’s go through the preventive measures carriers take:
- Electric vehicles are labeled as hazardous to ensure proper handling while shipping.
- The vehicle’s battery pack is tightly secured to prevent it from moving during transport.
- Electric vehicles are covered to keep the battery cool and protect it from external elements.
- Shipping companies invest in carriers equipped to handle hazardous cargo and hire staff with experience handling such cargo.
It’s also best for electric vehicle owners to consider enclosed carrier transport rather than open carrier transport for added vehicle protection.
Costs of Transporting Electric Vehicles
Shipping electric transport vehicles usually costs more than shipping regular vehicles due to the added weight of their battery packs.
The cost of shipping an electric sedan is typically $0.5-$0.6 per mile with an open carrier and $0.8-$0.9 per mile with an enclosed carrier. Meanwhile, the price of shipping for an electric SUV is $0.7-$0.8 per mile with an open carrier and $1-$1.1 per mile with an enclosed carrier.
That said, electric vehicle transport costs may vary based on factors such as demand, time of year, vehicle weight, and more.
If you’re planning to ship electric vehicles overseas, there are additional steps, costs, and documents to consider. A few typical overseas shipping costs:
- $1,000 – $5,000 to the United States
- $850 – $5,000 to Europe
- $1,500 – $2,500 to West Africa
- $3,000 – $5,000 to Australia
Exact costs vary depending on your overseas shipping method, port fees, and import taxes. You’ll also need a Bill of Lading (BOL), proof of ownership, import permit, and other necessary documents.
Common Challenges in Shipping Electric Vehicles
EV transport presents unique challenges that many shipping companies and EV owners may not yet be aware of. And, with 12% of Americans intending to invest in EV cars this year, knowing what to watch out for when shipping will be important. These are mainly:
- Special adjustments and electric vehicle logistics planning are needed due to EV’s special components and weight.
- Electric vehicles pose fire safety concerns during shipping due to their flammable battery packs.
- Auto transport companies need to invest in special equipment and personnel experienced in transporting hazardous cargo.
Preparing Your EV for Transport
The process of preparing your electric vehicle for shipping is mostly the same as with a regular car. The major steps EV owners should follow include:
- Check Vehicle Conditions: Ensure all car components (brakes, lights, and signals) are in working order.
- Remove personal belongings: Not only is it safer, but auto shipping companies also restrict or prohibit personal items in your car during shipping.
- Check Battery and Fluid Level: It’s advisable to charge your battery to 50% to prevent damage and empty all your car fluids to prevent leaks.
- Clean Your Car: Cleaning your car makes it easier for carriers to inspect for nicks and scratches. Some ports and carriers also require it.
FAQs
Can Electric Vehicles Be Shipped Like Regular Cars?
No, the process of electric vehicle transport is different from regular car transport because it requires specialised equipment, personnel, and safety measures.
What is the Best Way to Ship Tesla?
The best method for Tesla car transport is enclosed carrier transport to protect the vehicle from the elements. Make sure your auto shipping company has experience handling hazardous cargo.
How Do Transport Companies Handle EV Batteries?
Transport companies use specialized tools and personnel when handling EVs to prevent battery damage. They also cover the car to keep the batteries cool.
Patrick Peterson is a passion-driven automotive expert with over 8 years of hands-on experience in car care, maintenance, and detailing. He combines practical, real-world advice with a friendly, easy-to-understand style—perfect for everyday car owners. When he’s not writing how-to guides or testing products, Patrick is most likely under the hood of his vintage Mustang or exploring scenic drives.