Fifth Wheel Transport – Reliable & Efficient Hauling Solutions
If you have an RV that you need to ship to a new destination, you may be wondering what’s involved with fifth-wheel RV transport. How does this work, and is it a good idea to have your fifth-wheel RV shipped using a moving service? Find out all of the details in this article from A-1 Auto Transport.
What Is A Fifth Wheel RV?
A fifth-wheel RV is a spacious, towable recreational vehicle designed for a specialized hitch called a "fifth wheel." This hitch, commonly found on semi-trucks, can be installed in pickup truck beds for stable towing.
Unlike conventional travel trailers that connect to a rear hitch, fifth wheels offer superior balance and smoother towing. They also differ from self-powered motorhomes, which don’t require a separate tow vehicle. With a fifth-wheel RV, you get the best of both worlds: plenty of living space and the flexibility to unhitch and use your truck for other travel needs.
How Does Fifth Wheel Transport Work?
• Fifth-wheel transport averages $2.00–$4.00 per mile; cross-country hauls weighing 7,000–14,000 lbs typically reach $4,000+ total.
• Tow-away service moves most fifth wheels in 3–7 days; flatbed hauling adds protection but extends scheduling lead times noticeably.
• Interstate fifth-wheel carriers must be FMCSA-registered, carry cargo insurance, and issue a bill of lading documenting pre-transport condition.
Hiring a professional fifth-wheel moving service ensures your RV reaches its destination safely and efficiently. Most fifth-wheel transport methods involve securing the RV to a heavy-duty pickup truck or a semi-truck equipped with the proper towing setup.
Your RV will be towed with its wheels on the ground for standard moves. However, you can opt for a flatbed or gooseneck trailer if you prefer added protection from road wear and tear. While fifth-wheel hauling using a flatbed costs more, it prevents unnecessary mileage on your RV.
Since fifth wheels are built for long-distance towing, their axles and suspension systems easily handle the journey. Unlike motorhomes with complex drivetrains that may require specialized towing methods, 5th wheel transportation is straightforward and stress-free.
Need reliable fifth-wheel movers? Whether you're relocating across states or need local fifth-wheel camper transport, professional towing services make the process seamless. Get a quick quote today!
Why Would I Need Fifth Wheel Transport Services?
Relocating your fifth-wheel RV can be necessary for various reasons:
Relocation: Moving to a new state or city may require transporting your fifth-wheel RV to your new residence.
New Purchase: After purchasing a fifth-wheel RV, you might prefer having it delivered directly to your doorstep rather than arranging personal pickup.
Sale Delivery: If you've sold your fifth-wheel RV, offering delivery can enhance the transaction by saving the buyer a potentially long trip.
In these scenarios, professional 5th wheel movers provide a convenient and efficient solution, ensuring your RV reaches its destination safely without needing personal towing.
How Much Does Fifth Wheel RV Transport Cost?
The cost of fifth-wheel transport varies based on several factors:
Distance: Transporting an RV less than 100 miles typically costs around $3.32 per mile. For distances between 100 and 1,000 miles, the rate decreases to approximately $1.05 per mile.
RV Size and Weight: Larger and heavier fifth-wheel RVs may incur higher transport costs due to increased fuel consumption and the need for specialized equipment.
Transport Method: Standard tow-away services, where the RV is towed with its wheels on the ground, are generally more cost-effective. Opting for flatbed hauling offers added protection but at a higher price point.
Fuel Prices and Tolls: Fluctuations in fuel costs and applicable road tolls can influence the overall transport price.
Insurance Coverage: While reputable 5th wheel towing services include basic insurance, verifying coverage limits is essential. For high-value RVs, purchasing additional insurance is advisable to ensure comprehensive protection during transit.
Relevant Statistics
- The fifth-wheel transport market has steadily risen, with RV ownership increasing by over 60% in the past two decades.
- Fifth wheels make up a growing percentage of RV sales, and there is a steady demand among retirees and younger adventure seekers.
- The average fifth-wheel trailer weighs between 7,000 and 14,000 pounds, depending on the model and amenities.
- Over 60% of fifth-wheel owners opt for diesel trucks for their enhanced towing power and fuel efficiency.
- Most fifth-wheel users report high satisfaction with the stability and comfort these RVs provide, particularly for long-term travel.
General Facts
- 5th wheel moving involves hauling trailers using a specialized hitch installed in the bed of a pickup truck, ensuring greater towing control.
- The fifth-wheel hitch is known for offering a more stable and secure towing experience compared to traditional ball hitches.
- Fifth-wheel trailers remain a top choice for RV enthusiasts because of their spacious layouts, which often feature multiple levels and home-like amenities.
- The towing capacity for 5th wheel transport varies based on truck specifications, with heavy-duty pickups being the preferred choice.
- Thanks to their design, 5th-wheel trailers offer a tighter turning radius, making them easier to maneuver in campgrounds and other tight spaces.
Get Reliable Fifth Wheel Transport—Let A-1 Auto Transport Handle It
Regarding fifth-wheel transport, you want a company that knows the ins and outs of 5th wheel moving. At A-1 Auto Transport, we specialize in safely hauling fifth wheels across the country, whether you’re heading to a new home, an RV park, or a dealership.
With years of experience in fifth-wheel hauling, we’ve helped thousands of customers move their RVs stress-free. Whether you need a standard tow-away service or a more specialized fifth-wheel shipping solution, we have the equipment and expertise to do the job right.
Ready to move your fifth wheel? Call us today at (888) 230-9116 or request a free quote online. Let A-1 Auto Transport take the hassle out of your fifth-wheel transport needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fifth wheel and how does its hitch work?
A fifth wheel is a towable RV that connects through a kingpin to a large truck-bed hitch mounted in a pickup. This connection places part of the trailer’s weight over the tow vehicle instead of behind the bumper, which usually provides steadier handling than a rear ball-hitch trailer. The truck and hitch must still be rated for the trailer’s loaded weight. For the rear-hitch alternative, see A1’s travel trailer shipping service.
How does a fifth wheel moving service transport my trailer?
A fifth wheel moving service usually uses tow-away transport, with a heavy-duty pickup pulling the trailer on its own tires. An RV transport service may use a flatbed, step-deck, or lowboy when the trailer is not roadworthy, needs less road exposure, or requires different equipment because of its dimensions. Before departure, the driver checks the hitch connection, tires, lights, brakes, and breakaway system and records the trailer’s visible condition.
How much does it cost to transport a fifth wheel?
As of August 5, 2026, most standard fifth-wheel tow-away moves cost $1,000-$5,000 total, with common interstate rates around $2.00-$3.00 per mile. A move of about 300 miles often lands near $800-$1,100, while a 1,000-mile move commonly costs about $2,000-$3,000. Trailer dimensions, pickup access, route density, and transport method account for most quote differences. Flatbed or permit-required transport can exceed these ranges, so use the rate quote page for the specific trailer and route.
How long does fifth wheel transport take?
Fifth wheel transport commonly takes 2-5 loaded transit days for trips under 1,000 miles and 7-14 days for cross-country moves. Pickup scheduling occurs before loaded transit and may add several days while a compatible tow vehicle or trailer is assigned. Tow-away service is often easier to schedule than flatbed hauling, especially when the shipment requires permits or specialized capacity. Weather, route restrictions, and pickup access may change the estimated delivery window, so the quoted dates should not be treated as guaranteed.
Do I need my own truck to use a fifth wheel moving service?
You do not need to own or rent a truck when you hire a fifth wheel moving service. The assigned carrier supplies the compatible tow vehicle and hitch for tow-away service or the trailer and loading equipment for hauled transport. You must provide accurate dimensions, weight ratings, condition details, and pickup-access information so the carrier can match the equipment. Your own pickup matters only when you plan to tow the fifth wheel yourself, and its payload and towing ratings must cover the loaded trailer.
How should I prepare a fifth wheel for transport?
Prepare a fifth wheel by securing loose belongings and retracting all travel components, including slide-outs, awnings, steps, antennas, jacks, and stabilizers. Close the propane cylinder valves, disconnect shore power, and empty fresh-water and waste tanks unless the carrier gives different instructions. Check tire condition and cold pressure, wheel bearings, lights, brakes, the breakaway battery, and active safety recalls. Leave the required keys and operating instructions available, then photograph the exterior and record existing damage before pickup.
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