SUV Transport
Door-to-door shipping for crossovers, midsize SUVs, and full-size family haulers. Carriers with the room and the tie-downs for larger vehicles, and no deposit.
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- Fully insuredYour vehicle is covered from pickup to delivery.
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Shipping the Family Vehicle
SUVs are the most common family vehicle in America, and they make up a large share of what we ship. Moving one is nearly as simple as moving a car. The differences come down to size. An SUV is taller, longer, and heavier than a sedan, and those dimensions decide where it rides on the trailer and what it costs.
A car carrier works within fixed limits. The loaded truck cannot exceed a legal height and weight, so the driver arranges vehicles carefully. A compact crossover fits anywhere. A full-size SUV with three rows of seats takes up more length and much more weight, and it may only fit in certain positions. That is why a small crossover is usually priced like a sedan while a large SUV costs somewhat more.
Accessories matter too. A roof-mounted cargo box, a bike rack, or a lift kit can add enough height to change where the vehicle fits, or whether it fits on a standard carrier at all. None of this is a problem as long as we know in advance.
Heartland Auto Transport ships SUVs of every size throughout Alabama and to all 50 states. We are an FMCSA licensed broker, and we match your vehicle with a vetted, insured carrier that has the right equipment for it. There is no deposit, and the price we quote is the price you pay. Give us the exact year, make, model, and any modifications, and your quote will be accurate the first time.
What You Get With SUV Transport
The same door-to-door service, sized for a bigger vehicle.
Carriers with room
We assign carriers that can place a tall or heavy SUV in a suitable position on the trailer.
Insurance included
The carrier's cargo insurance covers your SUV for the whole trip.
Door-to-door service
Pickup at your home and delivery to your new address, or a nearby spot if the street is tight.
Pricing by actual size
A crossover is not charged like a full-size SUV. Your price reflects your vehicle.
Timed to your move
We schedule around a household move so the vehicle arrives when you do.
Help at any hour
Dispatchers answer the phone day and night.
What It Costs to Ship an SUV
Start with the standard ranges in the table, which are based on a sedan. A compact or small midsize crossover usually falls in the same range. A full-size or extended SUV typically costs about $75 to $150 more, because it takes more of the trailer's space and weight allowance.
Lift kits, oversize tires, and roof accessories can add to the price if they limit where the vehicle can ride. Enclosed transport adds 60 to 80 percent, and a non-running vehicle adds $100 to $200.
| Route | Distance | Typical price | Transit time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short regional | Under 500 mi | $350 – $700 | 1–3 days |
| Mid-distance | 500–1,500 mi | $700 – $1,300 | 3–5 days |
| Cross-country | 1,500+ mi | $1,100 – $1,800 | 7–10 days |
Typical open-carrier prices for a standard sedan. Large SUVs usually cost about $75 to $150 more.
How SUV Shipping Works
Four steps, starting with an accurate description.
Describe the vehicle
Enter your route and the exact year, make, and model. Mention racks, cargo boxes, and any lift or larger tires.
Book a pickup window
We assign a vetted carrier with space for your SUV. You pay no deposit.
Pickup
The driver calls ahead, inspects the vehicle with you, and loads it in a position that suits its size.
Delivery
At the destination, inspect the SUV, sign the report, and pay.
SUVs We Ship
From the smallest crossover to the largest three-row hauler.
Compact crossovers
Models such as the RAV4, CR-V, and Rogue ride anywhere on a carrier and are priced like a car.
Midsize SUVs
Two- and three-row models such as the Highlander, Explorer, and Grand Cherokee ship with no special handling.
Full-size and extended SUVs
Tahoe, Suburban, Expedition, and similar vehicles need a lower or end position and cost somewhat more.
Luxury SUVs
For a high-end SUV, ask about a top-rack position or enclosed transport for added protection.
SUV Size and What It Means for Shipping
Where your vehicle falls determines how it is loaded and priced.
| Size class | Examples | Shipping notes |
|---|---|---|
| Compact crossover | RAV4, CR-V, Rogue, Equinox | Fits any position. Usually priced like a sedan. |
| Midsize SUV | Highlander, Explorer, Pilot, Grand Cherokee | Fits most positions. Priced at or slightly above a sedan. |
| Full-size SUV | Tahoe, Expedition, Sequoia, Armada | Heavier and taller. Typically $75 to $150 more. |
| Extended or lifted | Suburban, Expedition MAX, lifted 4x4s | May need a specific position or carrier. Give exact height. |
Getting an SUV Ready for Transport
An SUV has more places to stow things than a car, which makes preparation a little more involved. A few minutes of attention will prevent problems on pickup day.
Start with the roof. Remove cargo boxes, ski and bike racks, and kayak carriers if you can. They add height, and a vehicle that is too tall may not fit where the driver planned to put it. If a rack cannot come off, measure the total height from the ground and tell us.
Empty the cargo area. It is tempting to fill the back of an SUV with boxes when you are moving. Please do not. Carrier insurance does not cover household goods, loose items can shift and damage the interior, and added weight can put the truck over its legal limit. A few light items below the window line may be acceptable, but ask your dispatcher first.
Fold in the mirrors and retract or remove the antenna. Take out toll transponders, garage door openers, and anything valuable.
Check the basics. The vehicle should start, steer, and brake. Tires should be properly inflated and the battery charged. Leave about a quarter tank of fuel. If the SUV has air suspension, leave it at normal ride height unless the driver asks otherwise, and mention it at pickup.
Tell us about modifications. A lift kit, oversize tires, running boards, or a brush guard changes the dimensions. We would much rather know when you book than have a driver discover it at your curb.
Finally, wash the vehicle and take photos of every side, the roof, and the wheels. Large panels show marks clearly, and a good record makes both inspections quick.
SUV Transport Questions
How much does it cost to ship an SUV?
A compact crossover is usually priced like a sedan: $350 to $700 under 500 miles, $700 to $1,300 up to 1,500 miles, and $1,100 to $1,800 cross-country. A full-size or extended SUV typically costs about $75 to $150 more.
Why do large SUVs cost more to ship?
They are heavier and take up more room. A carrier has a fixed limit on weight and height, so a big SUV can reduce the number of vehicles the truck is able to carry.
Can I leave my roof box or bike rack on?
It is better to remove them. If you cannot, measure the total height and tell us, so the carrier can plan a position where the vehicle will fit.
Can I pack the cargo area with my belongings?
We advise against it. Insurance covers the vehicle, not its contents, and extra weight can cause problems for the carrier. Ask your dispatcher before leaving anything inside.
Can you ship a lifted SUV?
Yes. Give us the lift height and tire size. Very tall vehicles may need a particular position on the trailer or a different type of carrier.
Should I ship my SUV open or enclosed?
Open transport suits nearly all SUVs. For a luxury or collector model, enclosed transport or a top-rack position adds protection.
How long does it take?
After pickup, 1 to 3 days under 500 miles, 3 to 5 days up to 1,500 miles, and 7 to 10 days for cross-country routes.
Can you ship two family vehicles together?
Yes. Vehicles from the same address can usually travel on one carrier and arrive the same day. Include both in your quote request.
Does four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive affect shipping?
No. The vehicle is secured at the wheels and is not driven far. Leave it in its normal drive mode, and let the driver know if it has a low-range setting or locking differentials that are currently engaged.
Will a three-row SUV fit on a regular car carrier?
Yes. Full-size and extended SUVs ship on standard open carriers every day. Because of their height and weight they are usually placed on the lower deck or at the rear, which is why they cost a little more.
Is there a deposit?
No. You pay on delivery, and the price matches your quote.
Ready to Ship Your SUV?
Get a price for your exact model in under 60 seconds, or call and talk through the details with a dispatcher.