Home / Blog / Top 10 Tips for Shipping a Brand-New Electric Vehicle
Car ShippingJuly 14, 2026 • Auto Shipping Expert
Purchasing a brand-new electric vehicle (EV) is an exciting milestone. Whether you've ordered a Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, or another electric model, ensuring it arrives safely at your destination is just as important as choosing the right vehicle. Unlike traditional gas-powered cars, EVs have unique features such as high-voltage battery systems, regenerative braking, and specialized charging components that require extra care during transport.
Whether you're moving across the country, buying an EV from a dealership in another state, or relocating for work, following these best practices can help ensure a smooth, damage-free shipping experience.
Not every auto transport company has experience handling electric vehicles. EVs are often heavier than gasoline-powered vehicles due to their battery packs, which requires proper loading techniques and equipment.
When comparing transport providers, look for companies that:
Working with an experienced carrier reduces the risk of handling errors and transportation delays.
The transport method you choose significantly impacts your vehicle's level of protection.
Open auto transport is the most affordable and widely available option. Your EV is securely loaded onto an open carrier along with several other vehicles. While exposed to weather and road debris, modern auto carriers are designed to transport vehicles safely across long distances.
Best for:
Enclosed auto transport provides maximum protection by shielding your vehicle from weather, dust, road debris, and potential damage.
Recommended for:
One common misconception is that your EV should be fully charged before shipping.
In reality, most manufacturers recommend leaving the battery at approximately 30% to 60% charge. This level provides enough power for loading and unloading while reducing unnecessary stress on the battery during transport.
Avoid shipping your EV with:
Moderate charge levels are considered the safest option.
Most auto transport companies prohibit personal items inside the vehicle during shipment.
Extra belongings can:
Before shipping, remove:
Keeping the interior empty makes the shipping process safer and more efficient.
5. Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly Before Pickup
Perform a complete inspection before handing your EV over to the carrier.
Take clear, high-resolution photos of:
Record any existing scratches, dents, paint chips, or imperfections.
These photos become valuable documentation if you ever need to file a damage claim.
Modern electric vehicles often include advanced security systems such as:
Some of these features may activate while the vehicle is on the carrier, potentially draining the battery or causing unnecessary alerts.
Ask your transport company whether any features should be temporarily disabled before pickup.
Protect external parts by preparing your vehicle before transport.
Secure or fold:
Removing detachable accessories minimizes the risk of damage during loading and transit.
Before booking your shipment, ask for proof of cargo insurance.
Understand:
If your new electric vehicle has a particularly high value, consider purchasing supplemental transport insurance for additional peace of mind.
Never assume every type of damage is automatically covered.
Electric vehicle shipments can require specialized carriers, especially if you request enclosed transport.
Booking several weeks in advance provides benefits such as:
Last-minute bookings often result in higher costs and fewer transport options.
Once your vehicle arrives, carefully inspect it before signing the delivery paperwork.
Check:
Compare the vehicle with the photos you took before shipment.
If you notice any damage:
Prompt reporting makes resolving claims much easier.
If this is your first electric vehicle shipment, keep these additional recommendations in mind:
Avoid these common shipping mistakes:
Taking a little extra time before shipment can help prevent costly issues later.
Electric vehicles represent a significant investment, and transporting them requires careful planning. Best car transport companies understand the unique handling requirements of EVs, from their heavier battery systems to their advanced electronic features.
By selecting a reputable transporter, preparing your vehicle correctly, and documenting its condition, you can significantly reduce the risk of delays, damage, or unexpected complications.
Shipping a brand-new electric vehicle doesn't have to be stressful. With the right preparation and a trusted transport company like auto shippings, your EV can arrive safely and in excellent condition. Whether you choose open or enclosed transport, following these ten practical tips will help protect your investment throughout the journey. From maintaining the proper battery charge to inspecting the vehicle upon delivery, each step plays an important role in ensuring a smooth shipping experience. Planning ahead and working with experienced professionals gives you confidence that your new electric vehicle will reach its destination ready for the road.
