Cheapest Way to Ship ATVs and UTVs
What is the Cheapest Way to Ship ATVs and UTVs?
All-terrain and utility vehicles are in a class all their own in the auto transport industry. Not all companies are equipped to handle shipping these unique vehicles, even those who do not always feel comfortable doing so. Because these vehicles are not street-legal, you never have to struggle with driving or hauling your vehicle to a new location because only one option is available. However, the ability to shop around and find the lowest rate with the best shifting service is still essential to the relocating process.
Find a Company Specializing in Shipping
Sure, many companies will assure you they can handle your specialty vehicle, whether it be a motorcycle, ATV, or UTV, but only an elite few have extensive experience in this specialized field. Because every ATV and UTV is different, complete with specific components making it unique, the transport drivers must be well-schooled in power sports vehicles to properly and safely load and unload your vehicle.
Make sure to contact at least three specialized transportation companies for quotes before deciding. This should give you a good idea of what to expect to pay for moving and also allow you to form your opinion of each company’s professionalism and competency.
Determine the Best Carrier and Method
Again, every ATV is unique, so your off-road vehicle will not have the exact specifications as someone else’s, meaning every car also has different requirements during the relocating procedure. You may think it’s worth spending the extra money on an enclosed equipment carrier, but in most cases, an open trailer works just fine for any size or weight of these rugged outdoor specialty vehicles, especially when the distance is not far. It is often unnecessary to create, drain fluids, and disconnect batteries on your ATV before pickup, so it can arrive at the final destination ready to go. Any transporting company worth its salt will be able to give you a consultation based on a verbal description of your vehicle and its specifications over the phone, letting you know the best way to ship with peace of mind based on your make/model/style.
Price Shop Smartly
A good rule of thumb in the auto transport industry is if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you have one company that manages to lowball the others by a significant margin in prices, buyer beware: it is perhaps not worth the risk. Use your best judgment in this situation as you would in all dealings. If you see or hear any red flags during the initial quote, skip that company and move on to the next. Unfortunately, this industry is riddled with unsavory companies and less-than-reputable individuals. Seek out a professional company with good references and an unbeatable track record with specialty sports vehicles like ATVs and UTVs. Exercising common sense is indispensable; saving a few dollars while risking losing your prized possession entirely is never justifiable.
Do you still have questions about hauling your ATV and other items? Talk to A1 Auto Transport for more details. We provide professional relocating services to and from anywhere in the United States and beyond. We have over two decades of experience shipping vehicles for customers from one place to another. Call us today at the number at the top of this page, and let's get the steps started toward meeting your needs.
Relevant Statistics
- Moving via freight train can save up to 35% on transportation costs.
- Utilizing specialized carriers for shifting results in a less than 0.5% damage rate.
- Relocating in bulk containers allows a staggering 45% reduction in shipping fees.
- By using optimized routing systems, it is possible to achieve a 25% decrease in delivery times for shipped ATVs and UTVs.
- Implementing advanced packaging techniques can reduce fuel consumption during shipping by 18%, leading to cost savings.
General Facts
- Shifting can be cost-effective if you choose the correct method.
- Freight shipping is often the most affordable option for transporting these vehicles long distances.
- Utilizing shared or consolidated shipping services can help reduce costs by combining multiple shipments.
- Some shipping companies offer special rates or discounts for shipping.
- Properly packaging and securing the vehicle can minimize the risk of damage during transit, reducing potential expenses.
Related Information.
- What you need to know about shipping rates
- International shipping
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to ship an ATV or UTV?
The lowest-cost method is usually open carrier transport, which offers the best price-to-distance ratio for powersports vehicles. Rates are influenced by route demand, carrier availability, size/weight, and the ability to load the unit easily. Pricing is generally lower on long, well-traveled corridors and during non-peak seasons. Booking early also avoids short-notice surcharges. For deeper cost breakdowns, see the car shipping cost guide at car shipping cost guide.
How much does it cost to ship an ATV?
Most ATVs ship for $400–$900 on domestic routes. Costs rise with longer distances, heavier models, low-clearance quads, remote pickup locations, or premium timing. Open carriers keep costs lowest, while enclosed transport adds protection but typically increases the rate by 30–50 percent. Flexible pickup windows and urban pickup points often produce the cheapest results.
How much does it cost to ship a UTV or side-by-side?
UTVs often cost $500–$1,200 because they are larger and heavier than standard ATVs. Price is shaped by dimensions, weight, wheelbase, pickup location, and whether the carrier needs liftgate access. Off-season (late fall through winter) usually brings the best pricing as carrier demand dips. When weather protection is important, consider enclosed auto transport at enclosed auto transport.
What affects the price of ATV/UTV shipping the most?
The biggest factors are vehicle size, distance, shipping season, trailer type, and how accessible your pickup or delivery address is. Rural or hard-to-reach locations raise costs because carriers detour off primary freight lanes. Providing flexible dates and choosing open transport generally produce the lowest quotes.
Is open transport safe for ATVs and UTVs?
Yes. For most recreational units, open carriers provide a secure, cost-efficient option. ATVs and UTVs are strapped and wheel-chocked in place, and carriers must meet FMCSA safety and insurance requirements. Protection is suitable for the majority of stock units unless you’re transporting a high-value, custom, or newly restored model, in which case enclosed transport may be preferred.
How can I get the lowest possible quote for ATV or UTV shipping?
You’ll typically save the most by choosing open transport, scheduling early, avoiding peak seasons, and selecting door-to-door pickup on major routes. Carriers also offer better pricing when loading and unloading is straightforward, especially for running units. To compare options, start with a fast quote at rate quote.
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