We’ve all been there: you’ve got a new truck, a boat, or some other heavy equipment you need to get from point A to point B. But you’re not sure if it can be done. And if it can, you may not know how to estimate the cost.
This article will answer all your questions about shipping heavy equipment across the country.
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Why Is It Important to Know How Much It Costs To Ship Equipment Cross Country?
No one wants to be taken advantage of or swindled. So, if you’re in the market for a particular service, you must have an idea of baseline market costs so you can find a good deal.
Trucks, boats, and other heavy equipment aren’t cheap, and shipping this type of cargo across the country can be very expensive.
The more you know about what you need to ship heavy equipment to your desired location, the better off you will be. A clear understanding of the details and logistics will help you make all the right decisions when it is time to begin the shipping process.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship Heavy Equipment Cross Country?
Over 18 billion tons of freight are shipped within the United States by truck, rail, water, air, and more. Transport and logistics is a booming industry all over the country, and you can partner with a well-reputed company for all your shipping needs.
Shipping heavy equipment across the country can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The shipping rate and total expenses depend primarily on the distance you want to cross. Standard rates begin at $3.00 to $5.00 per mile for distances up to 200 miles. The final rate will still vary depending on the weight of the cargo, where it’s going, and what type of courier service you decide to use.
You can also include additional items in your shipments, such as trailers and other tools that came with your equipment.
What Factors Affect The Costs To Ship Heavy Equipment Cross Country?
1. The Type of Equipment You Own
The most important factor that will determine your expenses is the nature of the equipment you are shipping. Transport companies have different rates depending on what you want to transport.
For example, bringing a motorcycle across the country is much easier and more affordable than shipping a motorized boat. Hauling commercial hydraulic machinery across several states is an entirely different beast when compared to transporting a four-wheel truck.
2. Size
The size of the equipment also significantly affects the cost of transport. Larger equipment will require big truck beds and large containers to ensure a safe journey.
3. Destination
The distance between the initial location and final destination also has a significant bearing on your shipping costs. Average rates are between $1 to $5 per mile, with variations depending on the type of cargo, the shipping method, insurance, and other fees and charges involved in transporting the heavy equipment.
For example, shipping a tractor from California to Arizona will be much less expensive than sending it all the way to Florida.
4. Timing
You must also consider your schedule and the exact date you need your equipment to reach your destination. For example, if you have a construction project set to break ground within two weeks, you must complete all the necessary arrangements to get all your equipment to your location.
Booking your shipment several months in advance will be much cheaper than booking it two days before you leave town. In general, shipping companies are more lenient with prices when they have more than enough time to arrange logistics.
Express shipping usually comes with exorbitant fees. If you want to save some money, plan your shipment schedule and don’t wait until the last minute.
5. Market and Economic Climate
Finally, the state of the transport market affects shipping rates across the board. If the market is in good shape and there is more than enough demand for transport providers to make healthy revenue, their rates will be very client-friendly.
Expect higher rates during peak seasons such as the holidays, summer, and winter months. And if you schedule your shipment during these periods, factor in potential delays caused by congested ports all over the country.
In a time of economic recession and rising gas prices, expect costs to go up significantly as well. While it is impossible to truly time the market, it is another element you must consider before you decide to ship your heavy equipment across the country. If you will be incurring tens of thousands of dollars just for shipping, renting equipment in your location may be a better financial choice.
Where Can I Get a Shipping Estimate?
If you’re shipping a brand new piece of equipment to a new location, you should discuss the details with the manufacturer or dealer. Their shipping estimate will likely be less expensive than a third-party shipping company, and they will ensure that everything goes smoothly with your shipment.
The Bottom Line
Shipping heavy equipment across the country isn’t cheap. If you know all about the ins and outs of the industry and the expenses you will incur, you are sure to have a seamless shipping experience.
Discuss all the logistics and get an estimate from your service provider before you schedule your transport. Make sure your transport partner meets all of your shipping needs.
A1 Auto Transport will handle all the details and paperwork needed to get your heavy equipment on the road and to its final destination in no time. You will surely get a competitive quote and top-notch customer service for a smooth and hassle-free transaction.