Travel trailers offer the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. They are perfect for road trips, camping, and even full-time living. However, moving a travel trailer from one place to another can be challenging, especially if you don’t have the right equipment or experience.
In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks for shipping your travel trailer safely and efficiently. We’ll cover everything from preparing your trailer for transport to finding the right shipping company, so you can have peace of mind and enjoy your journey without any hassles.
Preparing Your Travel Trailer for Transport
Before you ship your travel trailer, it’s essential to prepare it properly to prevent any damages during transit. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Clean Your Trailer
Make sure your trailer is clean inside and out before transport. This will help you spot any damages and make the inspection process easier. Additionally, it will prevent any debris from flying off and damaging other vehicles during transit.
Secure Loose Items
Remove any loose items from your trailer and secure everything that can’t be removed. This includes appliances, furniture, and any other fixtures that may move during transit. Use bungee cords, straps, or other types of fasteners to hold everything in place.
Check the Tires and Brakes
Make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition. Check the brakes and the electrical system, including the taillights and turn signals. If you’re not sure what to look for, have a professional inspect your trailer before transport.
Empty Tanks
Empty all tanks before transport to reduce the weight of your trailer. This includes the freshwater, gray water, and black water tanks. If your trailer has a propane tank, make sure it’s turned off and secured properly.
Choosing the Right Shipping Company
Once you’ve prepared your travel trailer for transport, it’s time to find the right shipping company. Here are some factors to consider:
Experience and Reputation
Look for a shipping company with experience in transporting travel trailers. Check their reputation online and read customer reviews to see what others are saying about their services.
Insurance and Licensing
Make sure the shipping company is properly licensed and insured. This will protect your trailer in case of damages or accidents during transport.
Price and Services
Compare prices and services from different shipping companies to find the best deal. Some companies offer door-to-door delivery, while others require you to drop off and pick up your trailer at a depot.
Customer Service
Choose a shipping company with excellent customer service. They should be responsive, informative, and willing to answer any questions you may have.
Travel Trailer Shipping FAQs
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Can I transport a travel trailer myself? | Transporting a travel trailer yourself is possible, but it’s not recommended unless you have experience and the right equipment. Hiring a professional shipping company will ensure the safety and security of your trailer during transport. |
How much does it cost to ship a travel trailer? | The cost of shipping a travel trailer depends on several factors, such as the distance, the size and weight of your trailer, and the services you require. On average, expect to pay between $1 and $3 per mile. |
How long does it take to ship a travel trailer? | The delivery time for your travel trailer will depend on the shipping company’s schedule, the distance, and the services you require. On average, it takes between 1 and 3 weeks for a travel trailer to arrive at its destination. |
Do I need insurance for my travel trailer during transport? | Most shipping companies offer insurance for your travel trailer during transport. However, it’s essential to confirm the coverage and the deductibles before you hire a shipping company. |
What should I do if my travel trailer is damaged during transport? | If your travel trailer is damaged during transport, notify the shipping company immediately and document the damages with photos or videos. The shipping company should have insurance to cover any damages or repairs. |
Conclusion
Shipping your travel trailer can be stressful, but with the right preparation and a reliable shipping company, you can move your trailer safely and efficiently. Remember to clean your trailer, secure loose items, check your tires and brakes, and empty your tanks before transport.
Additionally, take the time to find the right shipping company by considering their experience, reputation, insurance and licensing, price and services, and customer service. By following these tips and tricks, you can have peace of mind and enjoy your journey without any hassles.