Shipping a van across the United States can feel like a big challenge. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying or selling a van online, or need to move a commercial vehicle to another state, van transport services are the safest and most convenient solution. Instead of putting miles on your van or dealing with the stress of a long road trip, professional auto transport companies handle the entire process for you—ensuring your van arrives securely and on time.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about van transport services, including how they work, the different types of van shipping, benefits, costs, and tips for choosing the right transport company.
Van transport services are specialized vehicle shipping solutions designed to move vans safely from one location to another. These services are commonly used by:
Families moving to a new state
Businesses needing to relocate work vans or fleet vehicles
Car dealerships transporting vans to buyers
Individuals buying or selling vans online
Vacationers or snowbirds relocating for seasonal stays
Unlike driving your van across the country yourself, professional van shipping saves time, reduces wear and tear, and provides peace of mind with insurance coverage.
The process of van shipping is simple and straightforward:
Request a Quote – You provide details such as your van’s size, type, pickup location, and destination.
Book the Service – After comparing quotes and transport options, you schedule your shipment.
Vehicle Pickup – A carrier arrives at your designated location (or a nearby terminal) to load your van.
Transport in Transit – The van is securely hauled by a professional driver using the chosen shipping method.
Delivery – Your van arrives at the destination, inspected, and handed over in the same condition.
Most companies provide tracking and customer support throughout the journey, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.
Not all vans are the same, and transport companies offer different options to meet your needs:
The most common and cost-effective option.
Your van is shipped on an open trailer along with other vehicles.
Ideal for standard passenger vans or smaller commercial vans.
Provides full protection from weather, road debris, and external damage.
Best for luxury vans, customized vans, or brand-new vehicles.
More expensive but worth it for high-value vans.
The van is picked up from your home, business, or other specified location and delivered directly to your chosen address.
Maximum convenience, especially for busy schedules.
You drop off and pick up your van at designated shipping terminals.
A budget-friendly option but less convenient.
Perfect if you’re on a tight schedule.
Guarantees faster pickup and delivery times.
Choosing a professional service offers multiple advantages:
Time-Saving – No need to spend days on the road driving long distances.
Reduced Wear and Tear – Your van avoids unnecessary mileage and potential breakdowns.
Safety and Security – Experienced drivers handle your vehicle with care.
Insurance Coverage – Most companies include insurance for peace of mind.
Convenience – From scheduling to delivery, everything is handled for you.
Flexibility – Multiple transport options based on your budget and needs.
The price of shipping a van depends on several factors, including:
Distance – Longer routes cost more but may reduce cost per mile.
Van Size and Weight – Larger, heavier vans may require special trailers.
Transport Type – Enclosed carriers cost more than open carriers.
Pickup and Delivery Locations – Remote or hard-to-access areas can increase prices.
Season and Demand – Prices may be higher during peak moving seasons.
Expedited Services – Faster delivery typically costs extra.
On average, van transport costs vary for cross-country shipping, but it’s always best to request a free quote for accurate pricing.
Before shipping your van, a little preparation goes a long way:
Clean the Van – Helps with inspection and ensures accurate condition reports.
Document the Condition – Take photos from multiple angles.
Remove Personal Belongings – Transport companies usually don’t allow items inside.
Check for Leaks or Mechanical Issues – Ensure your van is road-ready for loading.
Reduce Fuel Level – Leave only about 1/4 tank of gas to reduce weight.
Disable Alarms – Prevent unnecessary interruptions during transport.
With many auto transport providers out there, selecting the right one is crucial. Here are key factors to consider:
Experience – Look for companies with expertise in van shipping.
Insurance Coverage – Ensure they provide adequate protection.
Customer Reviews – Check online ratings and testimonials.
Transparent Pricing – Avoid companies with hidden fees.
Licensing & Registration – Verify that the company is registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and FMCSA.
Customer Support – Responsive service is essential in case of delays or concerns.
Book your service early, especially during peak moving seasons.
Be flexible with pickup and delivery dates to secure better pricing.
Compare multiple quotes before making a decision.
Ask about insurance details before finalizing the booking.
Stay in communication with the transport provider for updates.
Van shipping isn’t just for individuals—it benefits multiple groups:
Families relocating across the country
Businesses with delivery or service vans
Car dealerships and online sellers
College students moving to a new state
Military personnel on assignment
Travelers heading to seasonal destinations
Q1: How long does van shipping take? A: Transit times depend on distance. Short routes may take 2–4 days, while cross-country transport can take 7–10 days.
Q2: Is my van insured during transport? A: Yes, most carriers include basic insurance, but you can ask about additional coverage for extra peace of mind.
Q3: Can I ship a non-running van? A: Yes, but it requires special equipment, which may increase the cost.
Q4: Can I put personal items inside my van during transport? A: Most companies recommend against it for safety and insurance reasons.
Q5: What types of vans can be shipped? A: Passenger vans, minivans, commercial vans, cargo vans, camper vans, and customized vans can all be transported.
AutoStar Transport Express provide a stress-free, secure, and reliable way to ship your van anywhere in the USA. Whether you need open or enclosed shipping, door-to-door convenience, or expedited delivery, these services save you time, protect your vehicle, and ensure peace of mind.
Instead of worrying about long drives, high fuel costs, or unexpected breakdowns, trust professional van haulers to handle the job for you. The process is simple, the benefits are clear, and getting a free quote is just a click away.
If you’re planning to relocate, sell, or buy a van, now you know everything you need to make an informed decision about van transport services.