Shipper Zone

How to Transport a Van

March 25, 2022

If you’re looking to transport a van, there are a few things you need to know first. The cost of transport can vary depending on the size and weight of your van, as well as the distance it needs to be transported. Whether it’s cargo vans, sprinter vans, step vans, or even your everyday mini van, VeriTread can help! Let’s look closer at the van transportation process and what to expect in terms of cost.  We make understanding how to transport a van affordable, easy, and available with peace of mind for buyers, dealers, and sellers.

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The more accurate information we can get about your van and the transport, the faster and easier the transportation process becomes. It is very important to get as much information about your van and your transport needs. You will need to provide the length, width, height and approximate weight of the van, as well as the status of the van – Is your van operable or inoperable? Is it coming from a dealer, auction, or private seller? Where is it being transported from? Where would you like it transported to? Please ensure that all dimensions, size and weight of the van are verified and confirmed to plan the move accordingly. The pickup and dropoff locations are key factors needed to transport a van. All of these factors are used in determining the best trailer to use and price to transport a van.

How Much Does it Cost to Transport a Van?

van transportVan shipping quotes can vary based on the vehicle’s weight, size, height, aftermarket modifications, speed of shipping and seasonal demand. To ship a mobility van, a wheelchair van, or even a commercial use van, there may be a higher cost, because of potential special handling requirements.

The key factors of transporting a van, are how the van is transported – on an open trailer, enclosed trailer, or car hauler and the flexibility of the delivery. Open deck trailers tend to be the best value for shipping your vehicle. Having the flexibility of a delivery date tends to allow for maximized value of your transport. Where the van is being transported to and from is also a key factor. As you can expect, the further the distance the higher the cost. Also keep in mind if the transport of the van involves special scenarios, that will be reflected in the cost as well.

What Types of Vans Can be Transported?

Cargo vans, sprinter vans, step vans, panel vans, and cube vans are available in many different sizes and styles. Let’s go over some characteristics of each of the 5 types of vans you may need to transport. Cargo vans are the traditional style of van, featuring a large open cargo area and raised roof for more headroom. Sprinter vans are more modern and have higher roofs, making them an ideal choice for transporting taller items. Steps vans offer more maneuverability with an extended wheelbase allowing for sharper turns and better control. Panel vans offer better aerodynamics and fuel efficiency due to their more rectangular shape. Lastly, cube vans provide a larger storage area than other types of cargo van, making them an ideal choice for bulk shipments.

van types

The standard Ford E-Series cargo van should fit on a standard car carrier, even though their size and weight are usually more than that of a standard car. Other cargo vans will not fit and will need a trailer better suited for their height, like a flatbed trailer. Those taller vans include Nissan NV’s, Ford Transit Connects and Mercedes Benz Sprinter. Step Vans are the delivery vans you see that FedEx and UPS utilize. These specific shaped vans are known for multi stop deliveries, and have walk in capacity for storage and efficiency. They will surely need an open trailer to accommodate their size for transport.

How is the Van Secured for Transport?

van on flatbed

Van transportation must be handled with special care. When moving a van via an open deck trailer, certain precautions must be adhered to. You will always want to make sure the Van is loaded on the trailer safely and put into Park. For further securement, always use straps or chains to keep the van attached to the flatbed trailer. Be sure to use soft straps if you will be placing them along painted areas. This sets you up for the best delivery experience for the shipper.

How do I choose a Van Transportation Company?

van transport

Let VeriTread Help You! VeriTread makes it easy to get reliable freight quotes from the experts in equipment transport. VeriTread moves thousands of machines every year and can quickly generate a reliable quote on the go. Our extensive specs and dimensions database of 60,000+ items, ensures you spend less time researching and more time putting your equipment to work. The VeriTread Shipper quote process is the simplest way to transport your machines. Follow these easy steps and you will receive a quote in under one minute:

  • Select Ready To Ship from the Freight Options Page
  •  Enter the Make and Model
  • Verify or Edit Your Van Dimensions
  • Enter Pickup & Drop Off Locations
  • Your Quote is Ready!

Getting started with VeriTread is easy.

You can visit our contact form or call (800) 880-0468.