Shipping an electric vehicle across state lines sounds as an overwhelming task. Considering all the high-tech features, sensitive battery systems, and specific EV specifications, you might wonder: Is shipping electric vehicles cross-state safe at all?
Shipping electric vehicles across state lines is safe. Work with a quality shipping company. Take the necessary precautions. Only a few additional factors require consideration when shipping an electric vehicle, when compared to shipping a gasoline-powered vehicle. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about safely and securely shipping your electric vehicle (EV) from the experts.has the experience and equipment necessary to handle your electric automobile with care for cross-state transport.
Why Shipping an Electric Vehicle Requires Special Attention
There are certain special considerations that need made when shipping an electric vehicle that make the process a little bit different than a normal car. Let’s take a look at what extra considerations there are.
Battery Sensitivity:
The EV batteries constitute the core of the vehicle and therefore their SOC and temperature at low and high conditions need to be determined during the transport stage. Overcharging and undercharging may adversely affect the battery’s life and these vehicles warrant special treatment.
Charging Infrastructure:
EVs, unlike other vehicles, have to be taken to special charging stations for recharge. Ensure the destination has charging infrastructure in place where the EV will ship.
Weight and Size:
EVs are heavier than conventional cars because of battery weight, so loading them onto a transport vehicle, in comparison to conventional cars, needs special planning.
How to Safely Ship an Electric Vehicle Cross-State
To get everything in order for your move across state lines, and to ensure that your electric vehicle makes it to your new location in good condition, do a few things before pickup.
Step 1: Choose a Reliable, Experienced Transporter
Choose an experienced and EV-compliant auto shipping company among many. Not all auto transporters are acquainted with the procedures involved with shipping an electric vehicle or have the proper equipment. 1A Car Shipping, for example, specializes in shipping EVs and trains drivers and carriers on how to properly handle an electric vehicle during transport.
Look for companies that:
- Have experience handling electric vehicles specifically
- Use enclosed transport to protect the vehicle from weather and road debris
- Provide clear communication about safety protocols for EV shipping
Step 2: Choose Enclosed Transport for Extra Protection
The safest way to ship an EV is via enclosed transport. The EV completely shielded inside the enclosed carrier during its journey. It will not be affected by the weather, road debris or any other vehicle’s damage on the road throughout the transport process. Enclosed transport is ideal in regard to high-value electric cars, such as the Tesla or other luxury EV brands, where road wear and exterior damage during transit are a critical concern.
Straps and ramps for racked-in enclos carriers transporting EVs are selected for the weight and size to ensure proper securement and loading of the vehicle.
Step 3: Prepare Your EV for Shipping
Complete a few easy steps before electric vehicle transport for a journey ready for it.
Charge the Battery:
For electric vehicles, it is suggested to charge them to 30% to 50% of the battery capacity before shipping because keeping an EV battery at roughly half capacity can alleviate the stress from charging to 100% or completely depleting the charge.
Disable Security Systems:
If your EV is equipped with an alarm/security system that unintentionally triggered during transit. Ensure you disable it prior to transport for the purpose of avoiding delays.
Document the Condition:
Photograph the car from multiple angles before shipment to help lower the risk of damage during car transport. Noting any pre-existing damage on the car is also a good practice.
Remove Personal Items:
Personal items left inside the vehicle are typically not cover by most car shipping insurance. That is why it’s important to remove all personal items prior to the vehicle pick up. Leaving items in the vehicle adds weight too.
What Are the Potential Challenges When Shipping EVs Cross-State?
Even though electric vehicles are safe to ship. There are issues causing delay or the cost of shipping an electric vehicle to increase.
Limited Charging Infrastructure at Destination
One of the biggest roadblocks to shipping an EV across state lines involves making sure that the destination accommodates it with the necessary infrastructure. If you consider shipping an electric vehicle to where it gets deliver, you’ll want to make sure that someone can access a charging station at that spot.
Extended Shipping Times Due to Weight and Size
Where the carrier hauls fewer cars per truck, because EVs are heavier and take up more space. The transport of EVs in general requires more time than the transport of a conventional car. When shipping an EV cross-state, allow enough time for this longer transport window, to avoid delays.
Weather Conditions
Weather may also play a role on the timeline as cars and EVs may take longer or be subject to additional procedures during seasons with a higher number of tropical storms, hurricanes, floods, rain, snow, heat or extreme cold.
Extreme weather for example high heat can damage your battery and diminish your EV range. Ensure that your transport company, such as 1A Car Shipping, is prepar during bad weather to accommodate when they are transporting your electric vehicle.
What Should You Expect During the Shipping Process?
You can anticipate the following if you partner with a reputable auto transport broker like 1A Car Shipping:
- Clear communication throughout the process
- Accurate delivery estimates
- Comprehensive tracking of your vehicle’s progress
- Experienced drivers familiar with handling EVs
Your transporter will load your car onto their truck and pack it securely during transportation. They should keep you updated about where your ride is and when it will arrive near your location.
Shipping an Electric Vehicle Cross-State Is Safe with the Right Preparation
definitely yes. If you are precautious by doing things such as enclosing transport and preparing your EV for transport, and an experienced electric vehicle transport company such as 1A Car Shipping helps you, your vehicle will arrive at its destination safely and securely.
Shipping an electric vehicle requires additional planning, but is similar to shipping a regular car and is a safe process, especially if an EV specialist carrier is used. And make sure you follow the outlined preparation steps in this guide so that your vehicle arrives at its destination without a hitch.
