Flatbed Car Transport: When and Why You Need It

When deciding to transport your vehicle from point A to point B, information is everything. So, if you are in the process of researching the different car shipping methods, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about flatbed car transport.

After reading this article, you’ll be able to decide if this is the right transportation method for your particular vehicle. Furthermore, you’ll learn how Move Cars can connect you with your ideal car transporter, so you can make the auto transport process fast, simple, and stress-free.

What Is Flatbed Car Transport?

Flatbed car transport is a specialized method of shipping vehicles that utilizes an open, flatbed trailer with no sides or roof.

Unlike standard multi-car carriers that can stack numerous vehicles, flatbeds typically transport only one to three cars at a time, making them safer and more exclusive than other methods.

The flatbed car transport cost tends to be higher than that of traditional carriers due to its lower vehicle capacity, which makes it more exclusive, and the specialized equipment and handling required.

However, as these trucks only ship a few vehicles, and provide a secure and stable platform, which minimizes movement during transit, they are the best choice for delicate cars, such as classics, luxury cars, or collector’s items.

Owners of oversized or unusually shaped vehicles also prefer this method because because these types of cars require the ample, unrestricted space of a flatbed.

Flatbed truck car transport stands apart from the more common open and enclosed car shipping carriers – due primarily to its versatility, safety for specific vehicle types, and its level of exposure.

When Should You Choose Flatbed Car Transport?

As explained above, shipping a car on a flatbed truck can be the ideal method for owners who are looking for security, versatility, and exclusivity.
Now, there are some other reasons one would consider booking their car’s journey with a flatbed carrier.

Non-operable vehicles

Since flatbeds have easy loading via ramps or winches, they are ideal for cars that cannot be driven onto a standard carrier due to mechanical issues or damage.

Heavily modified vehicles

These vehicles frequently possess unique dimensions, such as extra width or increased height from lifted suspensions., These increased size dimensions make it difficult for traditional carriers to ship. Yet, flatbeds can easily accommodate these non-standard sizes without risk of scraping, rubbing, or fitting issues.

Low-clearance vehicles

Some low-clearance cars, such as sports cars, luxury sedans, modified vehicles, and race cars, are not suitable for shipping with standard carriers, as these usually have a steep angle of the loading ramps. This can easily cause the undercarriage, front spoiler, or rear diffuser to scrape and sustain costly damage.

Construction vehicles

Due to their unique size and operational requirements, flatbed car transport is the ideal option for construction vehicles or heavy equipment. Vehicles such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, forklifts, and industrial machinery can be easily loaded and shipped on flatbed trucks, as they are specifically engineered to accommodate immense weights and oversized dimensions.

Luxury cars

While enclosed transport is one of the top choices for cherished vehicles such as luxury cars, flatbeds are a very good alternative as well, not to mention cheaper.
The single-level platform of a flatbed allows for careful winching and securement, and an exclusive experience you will not find in standard carriers.

How Does Flatbed Car Transport Work?

While the process for shipping a vehicle on a flatbed truck is simple, that vehicle must still be handled with the utmost security and care.

Booking a flatbed transporter

The process starts when you decide to move your car with a flatbed carrier. As this method is usually chosen by owners of special vehicles, such as luxury or oversized vehicles, before the booking, a personalized quote is requested. Once the quote is accepted, your shipment can be successfully booked.

Vehicle loading

After completing the booking process, the designated carrier arrives at the pickup destination to securely loadi the vehicle onto the flatbed truck. Though it may seem scary, the loading process is handled by professionals, and they carry out this task with precision and care.

For operable vehicles, they will slowly drive the car onto the flat deck with adjustable or hydraulic ramps. For inoperable or low-clearance vehicles, a winch will be used to pull the car onto the trailer safely.

Securing the vehicle

Once the car is loaded, the vehicle is meticulously secured using heavy-duty straps or chains at multiple anchor points to prevent any movement during transit. As this method is specially designed for special and heavy vehicles, you can rest assured that your car will be safe the whole way.

Transit

The driver will transport your vehicle along the planned route. With modern services, you can typically track your shipment in real-time via GPS and receive updates on its location.

Delivery

The flatbed car transport carrier will contact you before the delivery to confirm the exact time the car will arrive at your destination. Then, the vehicle is carefully unloaded, and the driver will carry out the final condition inspection to determine if any damage has been done to the vehicle.

Flatbed Car Transport Cost Breakdown

The cost of shipping your car on a flatbed varies depending on many factors, including distance, urgency, size of vehicle, pickup and delivery locations, and even the price of fuel.

For example, longer distances generally mean higher total costs, but the per-mile rate might decrease slightly over very long hauls. As for vehicle sizes, exceptionally heavy vehicles require specialized equipment and extra effort to load and secure, which can lead to higher prices.

However, you can expect the price to stay in its typical $1.50–$3.00 per mile range, which is significantly cheaper than enclosed carriers, while still offering security and exclusivity during the entire journey.

Though flatbed car transport is more expensive than traditional methods such as open carriers, (as these commonly transport 7-10 vehicles at a time), it is still a cost-effective option for owners who want to make sure their vehicle will arrive safely and in pristine condition to their destination.

Pros and Cons of Flatbed Transport

While flatbed car transport is an excellent option, it is still worth considering some of its pros and cons before booking your trip.
Some of its most positive attributes are its flexibility, as it allows a wide range of vehicles to be transported easily and securely, regardless of their size and operability. Additionally, it is a cheaper option compared to enclosed carriers, yet it still offers exclusivity and safety.

On the other hand, fewer carriers offer this option, which can lead to difficulty when booking the shipment, and, to requiring more time in advance for booking your trip. Also, it tends to be more expensive than traditional open carriers, as they offer a more personalized service.

Flatbed vs Enclosed vs Open Transport

If you’re still unsure which option to choose, enclosed, open, or flatbed car transport, we will provide you with a full, detailed table, so you can analyze your options thoughtfully.

Open Transport

• Most economical. Lowest price per mile due to high capacity.
• Vehicles are exposed to the elements.
• Ideal for standard, everyday vehicles.
• Typically carries 7-10 vehicles at a time.

When to choose: When budget is your top priority and you’re shipping a common vehicle that doesn’t require special protection or handling.

Enclosed Transport

• Significantly more expensive than open, often more than flatbed.
• Vehicles are fully enclosed within a trailer, shielding them completely from elements.
• Best for luxury cars, classic cars, antique vehicles, custom builds, exotic cars, or high-value vehicles that demand pristine condition on arrival.

When to choose: When preserving the vehicle’s condition is crucial, regardless of cost.

Flatbed Transport

• Generally more expensive per mile than open, but often less than enclosed.
• Vehicles are exposed to the elements, but transported on a single, stable platform.
• Ideal for oversized vehicles, inoperable vehicles, heavily modified vehicles, and low-clearance vehicles.

When to choose: When your vehicle’s condition prevents it from being safely transported by standard carriers and you still want maximum protection, or when you want exclusivity without the cost of enclosed carriers.

How to Book Flatbed Car Transport Through MoveCars.com

Now, if you’ve decided to book your shipment, the rest of your journey can be a seamless and simple process. How? With Move Cars.

At Move Cars, we strive to make auto transport an easy, secure, and stress-free experience by allowing you to compare different quotes from trusted, licensed car shipping companies from our vast network of auto transporters.

You can easily filter your options to find the option that suits you best, such as flatbed carriers.

Choosing a verified transporter offers numerous critical benefits like reliability, on-time delivery, accountability, transparency, clear communication, professionalism, and expertise.

With Move Cars, you don’t have to worry about choosing a verified auto transporter, as each one has been carefully selected to meet the highest standards.

Tips for Preparing Your Vehicle for Flatbed Shipping

Lastly, before shipping your vehicle, it is crucial to make the right preparations, as this will ensure a smooth trip.

Remove personal items

Thoroughly clear out all personal belongings from your vehicle, including the trunk, glove compartment, and under the seats, as transport insurance typically covers only the vehicle itself, not its contents.

Document vehicle condition

Take clear, high-resolution pictures and videos of your vehicle from all angles, paying close attention to any pre-existing dents, scratches, or cosmetic issues.

Communicate if the vehicle is non-running

This is vital to communicate upfront when booking, as it allows the carrier to dispatch a flatbed equipped with a winch or the appropriate loading tools, ensuring a safe and efficient pickup.

Ensure keys and documentation are ready.

Have a set of working keys readily available for the driver and prepare all necessary documentation, including vehicle registration, title, and the signed Bill of Lading.

FAQs

How do I choose a flatbed transport company?

Choosing the right flatbed transport company is crucial for a secure and smooth shipment, especially given the specialized nature of these services.

At Move Cars, we can help you compare different quotes, so you can choose what fits your needs best.

Our directory features only the most reputable auto transport companies, so you can be confident and have peace of mind throughout the whole process.

Find Flatbed Car Transport Companies Now!