Shipping A Step Van Or Multi-Stop Truck


How To Ship A Step Van Or Multi-Stop Truck?
Step vans, sometimes also referred to as multi-stop trucks, are a type of vehicle designed for local deliveries. Examples of this would include things like dry cleaning services for businesses, a Fed Ex vehicle, or even an ice cream truck. Given the amount of cargo space in a step vehicle, they can also be a good candidate to convert into a camper.
Because of the size and dimensions of work vehicles, they require more expertise to transport than a standard vehicle would. Depending on the cargo vehicle's size, a unique carrier could be needed to haul it. While not every vehicle shipping company has the capability or equipment to handle the job, it’s pretty easy to tell those that do. They should either have a section on the website or an article (such as this one) explaining that it’s a service they offer and how the process operates.
Why Shift A Work Vehicle?
As with any type of vehicle, it can seem counterintuitive to move it to a place where you plan on then driving it. After all, it has wheels of its own, and if it’s in good working condition, it makes sense to drive it, right? That may make sense if it's a drive you can do in a day, but what about going all the way across the country? That’s where things can get a little dicey, and hiring a hauler starts to make sense.
Naturally, there’s the concern that mechanical issues may crop up while driving across several states. As we’re all aware, vehicle repairs can be a costly and time-consuming endeavor (bear in mind that food and lodging are costs along the way). So, let’s explore another option: renting a trailer and moving it yourself.
There are two main issues with renting a vehicle and hauling a van alone. The first is that you’ve likely not done it before and could miss something important that a professional transporter would be able to catch. The second is that insurance will not cover any damages caused by driver error if you do the job yourself.
Any company that moves work vehicles, multi-stop trucks, walk-in delivery motor, or any other type of vehicle, must have insurance that covers damages caused by the driver.
Shipping a cargo vehicle? Whether you’re going across the state or the country, we’re here to help! We operate throughout the United States and internationally and are happy to give our readers FREE ESTIMATES for dispatching to any location! Contact us today to learn more or if you have questions about shifting the step van!

Frequently Asked Questions
 How much does it cost to ship a step van? 
Shipping a step van typically costs between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on distance, vehicle size, and service type. Short regional routes can be on the lower end, while long cross-country or heavy multi-stop trucks require more specialized carriers and equipment. Costs also fluctuate with fuel prices and seasonal demand. To better understand pricing for your route, review A1’s detailed car shipping rates page.
 How long does it take to ship a step van or multi-stop truck? 
Most domestic step van shipments take 3–9 days depending on pickup location, delivery distance, and carrier availability. Door-to-door delivery adds convenience but may extend transit time slightly. Expedited or dedicated hauling options are available for faster turnarounds. For an overview of standard and express delivery timelines, see A1’s same-day auto transport service details.
 What factors affect the cost of shipping a step van? 
The main factors include vehicle dimensions and weight, transport type (open vs. enclosed), distance, and delivery urgency. Step vans are larger and heavier than standard cargo vans, requiring carriers equipped for commercial loads. Seasonal demand and rural routes can also affect pricing. Learn more about pricing influences in A1’s cost distance estimate guide.
 Can I ship an inoperable step van? 
Yes. A1 Auto Transport can move inoperable or non-running step vans using specialized winches and liftgate equipment. However, you’ll pay slightly more than for a running vehicle because extra handling and loading gear are needed. Review the process for similar heavy vehicles on A1’s heavy vehicle transport page.
 What’s the best way to prepare a step van for transport? 
Before shipping, remove personal items, check fluid levels, disconnect alarms, and ensure tires are inflated. For commercial step vans, secure shelving and interior equipment to prevent movement in transit. Clean the vehicle and take dated photos for inspection records. You can follow A1’s preparation checklist similar to that on their truck shipping service page.
 Do I need special permits to transport a step van or multi-stop delivery truck? 
Most step vans fit within standard commercial hauling limits, but oversized or heavy configurations may require DOT permits, especially for cross-state transport. A1’s logistics team handles all necessary documentation to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. More insights into compliance can be found in A1’s interstate car towing section.

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