How to Ship Large Vehicles: A Guide for Trucks, Lorries, and Vans

Shipping large vehicles like trucks, lorries, and vans takes a lot of planning and consideration, especially if you’re dealing with international transportation. Fortunately, with proper planning and an understanding of the shipping process, transporting your large vehicle can be a smooth experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shipping large vehicles, from preparing your truck, lorry, or van to choosing the right shipping method. If you want to read about what’s on the horizon for Vehicle Shipping, read our post on “The Future of Vehicle Shipping” here.

1. Understand the Types of Shipping Options

When it comes to shipping large vehicles, there are a few main shipping methods available, each suitable for different needs and budgets:

• Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Shipping: This is the most common and cost-effective method for shipping large vehicles. With Ro-Ro, vehicles are driven onto the shipping vessel and secured below deck for transport. This method works well for operational vehicles and is frequently used for trucks, lorries, and vans. The vehicles are simply rolled on at the port of origin and rolled off at the destination, making it a straightforward and efficient process.
• Container Shipping: For added protection, especially for more valuable or delicate vehicles, container shipping may be a better choice. In this method, the vehicle is loaded into a large container, either alone or with other goods. Container shipping offers better protection from the elements, which is especially important if your vehicle is being shipped overseas or across long distances.
• Flat Rack Shipping: If your vehicle is too large to fit into a container, flat rack shipping might be the best solution. In this case, the vehicle is secured onto a flat rack, which is loaded onto a cargo ship. This method is ideal for extra-large trucks or specialised vehicles that require more space.

2. Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping

Before shipping, it’s crucial to prepare your truck, lorry, or van properly. Taking the necessary steps ensures that your vehicle is transported safely and minimises the risk of damage:

• Clean the Vehicle: Thoroughly clean your vehicle to allow for a clearer inspection of its condition before and after transport. This also prevents the buildup of grime or salt during transport, which can damage the exterior.
• Remove Personal Items: While your vehicle is being transported, it’s best to remove all personal belongings and valuable items. This ensures they won’t be lost or damaged during transit.
• Inspect and Document the Condition: Before shipping, inspect your vehicle for any existing damage and take detailed photos of the exterior and interior to document its condition.
• Check Fluid Levels and Battery: Make sure your vehicle’s fluid levels are appropriate. Additionally, the battery should be fully charged, especially if you’re using Ro-Ro shipping.
• Reduce Fuel: Most shipping companies recommend having your vehicle’s fuel tank between 1/4 and 1/8 full.

3. Understand the Costs Involved

Several factors will influence the overall cost of shipping your vehicle. It’s important to be aware of these variables to budget accordingly:

• Distance: The farther the vehicle needs to be shipped, the higher the cost.
• Shipping Method: Ro-Ro shipping is typically the most affordable option, while container shipping and flat rack shipping will come at a higher cost.
• Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles may incur additional costs.
• Insurance: Most companies offer basic insurance coverage, but if your vehicle is of high value, consider purchasing additional insurance.
• Customs and Import Fees: If you’re shipping your vehicle internationally, don’t forget to factor in customs and import fees.

4. Choose the Right Shipping Company

Selecting a reliable shipping company is a critical step in the process. Ensure the company has experience transporting trucks, lorries, or vans, as shipping large vehicles requires specialised knowledge. Also, verify that the company is appropriately licensed and insured – this protects you in the event of damage or delays. And while it’s important to find a cost-effective option, remember that the cheapest rate isn’t always the best choice. Consider the company’s reputation and the level of service they provide

5. Prepare for Delivery

Once your vehicle reaches its destination, you’ll need to make arrangements for pick-up or delivery. If the vehicle is being delivered to a port, you may need to coordinate with customs to clear your vehicle and ensure all the necessary paperwork is in order. After delivery, carefully inspect your vehicle for any signs of damage or issues.

Shipping large vehicles doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the shipping options available, preparing your vehicle properly, and choosing a reliable shipping company, you can ensure a smooth and successful transport. Contact Andrews Shipping for a quote today.