RV Transport for Every Type of Rig
RV transport is specialized shipping for motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and campers. RVs are larger, heavier, and more complex than passenger vehicles. As a result, they require specialty carriers, drivers experienced with oversized loads, and the right equipment.
At Xpress Auto Transport, we coordinate RV transport nationwide. Whether you bought an RV in another state, need to relocate your motorhome, or want to ship a travel trailer without towing it yourself, we have the solution.
Types of RVs We Transport
Different RV types require different transport methods. We handle every category. Below are the main RV transport services we offer.
Class A Motorhome Transport
Class A motorhomes are the largest RVs, often 30 to 45 feet long. They’re self-propelled and can be transported via two methods. The first is drive-away service, where a professional driver operates the RV to its destination. The second is flatbed transport for non-running motorhomes.
Class B Motorhome Transport (Camper Vans)
Class B camper vans are van-based motorhomes from brands like Winnebago, Roadtrek, and Airstream Interstate. They’re smaller and can ship on standard car carriers or via drive-away service.
Class C Motorhome Transport
Class C motorhomes are mid-size RVs built on truck or van chassis. They typically range from 20 to 30 feet. Transport options match Class A: drive-away or flatbed for non-running units.
Travel Trailer Transport
Travel trailers attach to a tow vehicle. For transport, we hitch them to specialized hauler trucks. Sizes range from small teardrops to 40-foot luxury trailers.
Fifth Wheel Transport
Fifth wheels connect to a pickup truck’s bed via a specialized hitch. They require carriers with the right hitch setup. Most fifth wheels range from 25 to 45 feet.
Pop-Up and Truck Camper Transport
Smaller campers ship via flatbed carriers or specialized trailers. We handle pop-ups, slide-in truck campers, and toy haulers.
Drive-Away vs. Flatbed RV Transport
The two main RV transport methods serve different needs. Understanding both helps you choose what works best.
Drive-Away Transport
A professional driver operates your RV to its destination. This adds mileage to your RV but saves money compared to flatbed transport. It works for running motorhomes only.
Benefits include:
- Lower cost than flatbed transport.
- Faster transit times.
- No risk of trailer-related damage.
- Available for Class A, B, and C motorhomes.
Flatbed RV Transport
Your RV travels loaded on a specialized flatbed trailer. The RV doesn’t accumulate any mileage. It also doesn’t require running. This method costs more but adds zero miles.
Benefits include:
- Zero added miles on your RV.
- Required for non-running motorhomes.
- Reduces wear on transmission and engine.
- Available for any RV type.
How Much Does RV Transport Cost?
RV shipping costs more than car shipping. Size, weight, and specialized equipment all add cost. Below are typical pricing ranges.
- Drive-away (motorhomes) — $1.50 to $3.00 per mile.
- Flatbed transport (smaller RVs) — $2.50 to $4.50 per mile.
- Flatbed transport (large Class A) — $4.50 to $7.00+ per mile.
- Travel trailer hauling — $2.00 to $4.00 per mile.
- Fifth wheel hauling — $2.50 to $4.50 per mile.
Cross-country RV transport can range from $3,000 to $15,000+ depending on size and method. Request a custom RV transport quote for accurate pricing on your specific rig.
What Affects RV Shipping Cost?
Several factors influence final RV transport pricing.
- Length and weight — the biggest pricing factors.
- Transport method — drive-away costs less than flatbed.
- Distance — longer routes cost more in total.
- Route accessibility — rural or remote pickup adds cost.
- Season — snowbird seasons see higher demand and prices.
- Permitting — oversized RVs may need special transport permits.
- RV condition — non-running motorhomes require flatbed (higher cost).
RV transport involves more variables than standard car shipping. We’ll walk you through the options and help you choose between drive-away and flatbed based on your specific situation.
Preparing Your RV for Transport
RV preparation is more involved than passenger vehicle prep. Use these steps before pickup day.
- Empty all holding tanks (fresh, gray, black).
- Remove personal items from cabinets, closets, and storage bays.
- Secure all loose interior items so they don’t shift in transit.
- Retract all slide-outs fully.
- Disconnect and store the propane tank where appropriate.
- Lock all doors, compartments, and access panels.
- Provide all keys and any access codes.
- Document the RV’s exterior and interior condition with photos.
RV Transit Times
RV transit times vary by method and route. Drive-away service is fastest. Flatbed transport takes longer due to specialized carrier scheduling. Below are typical ranges.
- Drive-away under 500 miles — 1 to 2 days.
- Drive-away cross-country — 5 to 7 days.
- Flatbed under 500 miles — 3 to 5 days.
- Flatbed cross-country — 10 to 14 days.
Why Choose Xpress for RV Transport?
RV shipping requires specialized knowledge and a real carrier network. Our team has coordinated thousands of RV transports across the country. We work with professional drivers experienced in handling motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels. Furthermore, we’ll give you honest advice about drive-away versus flatbed before booking.