Transporting Your Camper: Interstate Travel Tips

Transporting a camper to another state can be a stressful process, but there are several options to make the move as seamless as possible. One option is to hire an auto transport company, which can be a safe, convenient, and affordable choice. Alternatively, you can tow your camper using a tow dolly or trailer, but this option is best for those with experience and comfort in towing. If you're renting a moving truck, you may also be able to hitch your camper to it, which can be both affordable and convenient. For those on the East Coast, shipping your camper by train is another possibility, although it can be costly and time-consuming. Finally, you can always drive your camper to your new state yourself, but this option may not be feasible for longer distances.

Hiring an auto transport company

Finding a Reputable Company:

Firstly, you need to find a reputable auto transport company. You can start by asking for referrals from local camper or RV dealers, as they often hire transport companies to deliver vehicles to their dealership. Another option is to search online for "camper transport companies" or "RV transport companies". When searching online, be cautious of "middleman" services that mark up transport services and outsource the work to contractors. Look for companies with their own team of licensed drivers and positive reviews from customers. You can also use websites like uShip.com, where independent contractors specializing in hauling campers and RVs can bid on your job.

Getting Quotes and Comparing Services:

Get quotes from at least three transport companies to compare prices and services offered. Consider the cost, but also the company's reputation, experience, and ability to meet your specific needs. Ensure they have the necessary licenses and insurance for interstate moves. Check their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and read online reviews from previous customers.

Preparing Your Camper for Transport:

Before handing over your camper to the transport company, there are several things you should do to prepare it for shipment:

• Ensure your insurance coverage is adequate for the transport. Contact your insurance company to confirm that your policy covers damage, loss, or theft during transit.
• Document the condition of your camper by taking high-quality photos from multiple angles, both interior and exterior. This will help in case there is any dispute about existing damage.
• Remove all personal belongings and valuable items from the camper. The transport company's insurance does not cover personal belongings, and items may get damaged or lost during transit.
• Check the fuel level and ensure it is no more than a quarter to half full, as recommended by the transport company. A nearly empty tank reduces the weight of the vehicle.
• Secure or remove any loose items on the exterior of the camper, such as decorations, extra antennas, or modifications. Tape down anything that cannot be removed.
• Inform the transport company of any special requirements or instructions, such as the exact pickup and delivery times and locations.

During and After Transport:

• It is recommended to be present or have a trusted representative at the pickup and delivery of your camper. This will allow you to inspect the camper for any damage during transit and ensure it is delivered as expected.
• If there is any damage to your camper upon delivery, document it with photos and report it to the transport company immediately. Follow their claims process to seek reimbursement for any necessary repairs.
• Once you have confirmed the safe delivery and inspected your camper, be sure to sign any necessary paperwork and provide feedback on your experience.

Towing or trailing your camper

Renting a Moving Truck

If you don't own a truck, you can rent a moving truck to hitch your camper to using a car trailer or tow dolly. This option may be allowed by truck rental companies, but it is essential to check with them beforehand. Keep in mind that towing a trailer or vehicle can be challenging and stressful if you don't have the necessary skills and experience.

Owning a Truck

If you own a truck, you can kill two birds with one stone by hitching your camper to it with a rented car trailer or tow dolly. Ensure that you are comfortable with towing and have the necessary equipment to do so safely.

Experience and Skills

Towing a camper can be dangerous if you don't have the proper skills and experience. It is crucial to be confident in your ability to handle the additional weight and size of the camper while driving. Practice driving with a trailer beforehand to get a feel for the differences in handling, turning, and braking.

Safety Considerations

Always put safety first when towing a camper. Use the proper equipment, such as safety chains, lighting, and braking systems, to ensure compliance with legal requirements and your own peace of mind. Regularly inspect your towing setup to identify any potential issues and address them promptly.

Planning Your Route

When planning your route, consider the weather, road conditions, and any weight restrictions on roads or bridges. Allow for extra time and take it slow, especially when navigating tight turns or backing up. Be mindful of low-clearance areas, such as drive-thrus, gas stations, and parking garages, and choose alternative routes or stops to avoid them.

Maintenance and Emergencies

Before embarking on your trip, perform a thorough maintenance check on both your truck and camper. This includes checking tire pressure and wear, ensuring all lights are functional, and verifying that the hitch and safety chains are secure. Have a toolkit and emergency supplies on hand in case of breakdowns or other unforeseen events.

Shipping by train

Shipping a camper by train is a viable option if you are located near a train depot at both the drop-off and arrival points. This option is only available for those on the East Coast of the United States. Amtrak's Auto Train allows you to transport your camper with a passenger train through the direct-to-consumer freight train option. However, you need to be on the train with your camper. This option can be more time-consuming and costly than flying, with one-way tickets costing around $150.

When preparing your camper for transport by train, you should ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage and document the condition of your camper with high-quality photos from multiple angles, both interior and exterior. Most train shipping companies will require you to have no more than a half tank of gas in your camper, and some may prefer a quarter tank to reduce the weight of the vehicle. Remove any personal items and valuables from the camper, as they are not typically covered by the train company's insurance.

Overall, shipping your camper by train can be a convenient and cost-effective option, especially if you are located near train depots and want to avoid the potential wear and tear of shipping by truck.

Shipping by boat

Shipping a camper by boat is a viable option, especially if you are transporting it to Hawaii or Alaska. There are a few things you should consider if you are thinking of going down this route.

Firstly, you will need to decide whether to ship your camper in a container or using the roll-on, roll-off (RORO) method. The RORO option is more secure and less likely to result in damage, but it is also more expensive. If you opt for a container, you will have the added benefit of being able to ship other belongings inside the container with your camper.

Next, you will need to find a reputable shipping company with experience in transporting vehicles. Look for a company with positive reviews and high ratings, and ensure they have the proper insurance and licenses to transport your camper.

Before handing over your camper to the shipping company, there are several steps you should take to prepare it for transport. These include:

• Inspecting your camper for any damage and taking pictures for your records.
• Cleaning your camper to prevent dirt and debris from causing scratches during transport.
• Securing or removing loose items, such as seat cushions, boat covers, and gear.
• Draining all fluids, including fresh water, sewage, drainage water, and fuel.
• Disconnecting electronics from power sources to protect them during transport.
• Ensuring your alarm system is disabled.
• Removing personal items and valuables from your camper.
• Checking your tires and battery to ensure they are in good condition.

Finally, keep in mind that shipping a camper by boat can be more expensive than other transport methods, and there may be limited options available. It is important to get quotes from multiple companies and compare their services and prices before making a decision.

Driving it yourself

Driving your camper to its new state yourself is a great option if your move is just a few hundred miles. Beyond that, the costs of driving yourself may not be in your favour. Here are some things to consider when deciding whether to drive your camper to another state:

Gas Costs

How much gas will you need to get to your destination? This will depend on how far you're travelling and the fuel efficiency of your camper.

Time

How many hours can you realistically drive in a day? Will the drive take one day or five? If it's going to take more than a day, you'll need to factor in the cost of overnight stays.

Food

How much will food for the journey cost? If your camper has cooking facilities, you may be able to save money by shopping at a grocery store and preparing your meals.

Breakdown

Will you have the money and time to handle an unexpected breakdown? Make sure you have a plan in place should this happen.

Weather

Where are you moving to and what time of year are you travelling? Driving in the northern states during winter can be treacherous.

Wear and Tear

How much wear and tear will the trip put on your camper? A long journey will add miles to your vehicle, which could lead to more maintenance and repairs.

Frequently asked questions