So you may be wondering, Are SUVs harder to transport than sedans? SUVs do have some special considerations. Transporting a car is not hard, as long as you choose the right car shipping company.
In the sections to follow we will describe SUV shipping and how it differs from other types of car shipping, we will give a side-by-side comparison of SUV transportation and sedan car shipping, and we will provide a glimpse into what you can expect with auto transport carrier services. Automobile Shippingsolves issues simply, reliably, and cost-effectively for SUVs and sedans.
Why SUVs Can Be Harder to Transport Than Sedans
Differences in size, weight, ground clearance, and other features of SUVs and sedans lead toward important differences in how these vehicles are loaded, tied down, and transported within.
Size and Height
- Sport utility vehicles have greater size and height.
- This also makes them more difficult to fit into standard transport spaces such as those of multi-car carriers.
- Some carriers require specific loading positions for taller vehicles. The goal is to avoid exceeding upper deck height restrictions.
Weight Differences
- SUVs are heavier in comparison to sedans.
- Heavier vehicles burn more fuel and might require reinforced equipment with additional trailers.
- This extra weight affects shipping prices because carriers must comply with weight regulations.
Ground Clearance
- Compared to other vehicles, SUVs can be had with a higher ground clearance for loading.
- SUVs that are modified through lift kits or larger tires can sometimes need specialized loading aids for ease of access.
Oversized or Modified Features
- Roof racks, larger tires, heavy-duty bumpers or other off-road accessories of this mode of transport make this mode of transport complicated.
- These features might need removal along with additional steps that might be needed.
- Shipping an SUV is usually more difficult for one to arrange than shipping a sedan, considering that shipping companies are more experienced with this type of shipping.
How Transporting an SUV Differs From Transporting a Sedan
The vehicle shipping procedure with SUVs, crossovers, and sedans is similar, with distinctions mainly in the areas of preparation, loading, and pricing.
Different Pricing Structure
SUVs prove to be heavier and larger. This makes them more expensive to transport than sedans for several reasons.
- More room is available on the carrier
- Additional weight increases fuel consumption
- Special handling requirements
Sedans are cheaper to load into ships and trains because they are smaller and lighter.
Specialized Loading Requirements
SUVs may require:
- Heavier-duty loading ramps
- Extra space available on the carrier
- Position assignments based on size of members
Sedans, on the other hand, are easier to load in addition and do not require specific adjustments.
Greater Insurance Considerations
SUVs cost more than sedans so SUVs might need more coverage too. Carriers consider:
- Overall vehicle value
- Modifications or accessories
- Weight-based insurance requirements
More Detailed Pre-Transport Inspection
Because they often have many external items upon them, such as roof racks, spare tire holders and bull bars, the driver should ensure that these are all secured so that none of these items are damaged or left dangling.
Steps to Prepare Your SUV or Sedan for Shipping
Prepare your vehicle whether shipping an SUV or a sedan.
Step 1: Clean and Inspect the Vehicle
- Can help identify pre-existing problems and damage while washing under the car.
- Photograph all sides and any dents/ scratches and show accessories or additional parts that come with it.
Step 2: Remove Loose Accessories or Modifications
- Remove removable roof racks, antennas, and aftermarket equipment from vehicles.
- Let your shipping company know about whether your SUV has a lift kit or larger tires.
Step 3: Check Vehicle Fluids and Battery
- Charge the battery. Inflate tires toward the correct pressure. Maintain vehicle fluids to the correct levels.
- Fuel tank levels must stay below a quarter. Most transporters ask for this.
Step 4: Secure or Remove Interior Items
- Remove your valuables and personal items.
- Transport items that could roll, fall, or shift during travel.
Step 5: Provide Accurate Vehicle Specifications
Some examples of these details for SUVs include:
- Height
- Weight
- Modifications
- Special features
This enables the transport company to select the right carrier and offer an accurate price.
How Auto Shipping Companies Handle SUVs and Sedans
Auto shippers that are professional can ship sedans and SUVs safely and securely to their destinations.
Carrier Selection
- Sedans: Usually transported upon open car carriers.
- SUVs: Cars sometimes fit with modifications. Otherwise needs to be enclosed if large or valuable.
Placement on the Trailer
- To improve stability, the heaviest vehicles like SUVs are stowed on the lower deck.
- Sedans may park on either deck to maximize available parking.
Safety Securing
- Stronger tie-downs
- Tighter securing angles
- Additional precautions due to a higher center of gravity
Sedans are smaller and do not require as much securing.
Specialized Equipment
- Extended ramps for taller SUVs
- Heavy-duty straps
- Customized liftgate equipment for low-clearance sedans
With a professional company like Automobile Shipping, everything is taken care of on how to ship every type of vehicle safely.
Final Thoughts: SUVs vs. Sedans—Which Are Harder to Transport?
In general SUVs take a little more work to ship than sedans, because of their greater overall size and weight, as well as handling characteristics. This leads to a higher industry cost, and requiring more space and accurate load balancing. It is possible to transport modified SUVs, but they can make this process more complicated. A reliable auto transportation service could make shipping a modified SUV as easy and low stress as shipping a standard sedan due to their experience with vehicle variations. If you want to transport your car or truck and want it to arrive safe and sound with reliable service and price, then prepare your car for pick up, and leave the rest to Automobile Shipping.
