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Shipping a dually truck isn't like shipping a regular pickup. Your dual rear wheels, heavy-duty engine, and reinforced frame make your truck special. That means shipping it takes special planning.
If you've never shipped a dually before, you might be surprised to learn that most standard auto carriers won't handle your truck the same way they handle regular vehicles. Dually trucks take up more space, weigh more, and require carriers who understand heavy-duty equipment. This affects everything from pickup timing to final cost.
What You'll Learn
Why dually shipping cost more, and what affects the price
How to prepare your truck for transport
Ways to save money during shipping
Key Takeaways
Shipping a dually truck requires special planning because your dual rear wheels, heavy-duty engine, and reinforced frame take up more carrier space than regular trucks. Dually shipping costs more because most carriers charge extra space fees or require specialized flatbed carriers.
Fewer carriers handle dually trucks, so finding the right one can take longer than shipping regular vehicles. You may need special equipment like flatbed trailers if your dually is too big for standard car carriers. Getting a CDL might be required if you plan to haul vehicles with your dually for profit.
What Is a Dually Truck (and Why It’s Different)
A dually truck is a heavy-duty pickup with four rear wheels instead of two. The extra wheels add stability and strength, making these trucks ideal for towing and hauling heavy loads. They distribute weight more evenly, handle rough roads better, and offer greater control when pulling trailers or equipment.
Dually trucks include upgrades such as:
Larger, more powerful engines
Reinforced suspension systems
Stronger brakes
Durable, strengthened chassis
Popular models include the Chevrolet Silverado 3500, Ram 3500, Ford F-350 Super Duty, and GMC Sierra 3500. Depending on configuration, these trucks can tow up to 36,000 pounds with confidence.
Why Does Shipping a Dually Truck Cost More?
Several factors contribute to higher costs:
1. Size and Space
A dually’s extra wheels make it wider and longer than standard pickups. Since most carriers can fit about 9–10 cars, a dually may take up two spaces. That lost space increases your shipping rate.
2. Limited Carrier Availability
Fewer transporters accept dually trucks. They require more skill to load and handle, and many standard carriers won’t take the extra width or weight. With fewer available carriers, prices are often higher.
3. Equipment Requirements
Some dually trucks don’t fit on standard open carriers and may need a flatbed trailer. Flatbeds are pricier since they can only haul one to three vehicles and require more specialized handling.
4. Weight and Fuel Usage
Dually trucks weigh more than regular vehicles. When a truck weighs more, the carrier uses more fuel, and the trailer experiences more wear and tear.
Average Dually Shipping Rates (2026)
Carrier Options for Dually Trucks
Choosing the right carrier type is one of the most important steps in dually truck transport. Each option offers different levels of protection, cost, and availability depending on your vehicle's size and value.
Open Carrier
Most affordable option. Your truck is exposed to the weather, but shipped safely on standard trailers. Best for work or personal-use duallies that fit within width limits.
Enclosed Carrier
Offers full protection from weather and debris. Recommended for luxury or customized dually trucks. Costs about 30–50% more than open transport.
For a side-by-side comparison of enclosed and open carriers, read the open vs. enclosed carrier comparison guide.
Flatbed Carrier
Handles oversized or lifted duallies. Ideal for trucks that can’t fit standard carriers. More costly but highly secure.
How to Prepare Your Dually Truck for Shipping
Proper preparation prevents delays and damage:
Clean your truck: Document any scratches or dents with photos.
Remove personal items: The DOT prohibits shipping personal belongings inside vehicles unless arranged separately.
Secure or remove attachments: Fold mirrors, remove toolboxes, racks, or antennas.
Inspect mechanical parts: Check brakes, tires, fluids, and battery.
Leave 1/4 tank of fuel: Enough for loading/unloading without adding excess weight.
Keep documents ready: Title, registration, insurance, and contact details should be on hand.
Shipping Timeline and What to Expect
Most shipments take 7–14 days total. Expect:
3–7 days to match with a carrier
1–3 days per 1,000 miles of transit
Pickup and delivery usually occur at accessible locations (Location Permitting). Be present for inspection, sign the Bill of Lading, and review your truck before and after shipping.
Insurance and CDL Requirements
For personal transport, standard auto insurance usually covers the truck. Some carriers also include liability coverage ($100,000–$250,000 per vehicle). Optional gap protection plans are available.
If you plan to use your dually for commercial hauling:
You need a Class A CDL if the truck and trailer weigh over 26,001 lbs combined.
Commercial insurance is required ($750,000–$1,000,000 liability minimum).
Final Thoughts
Shipping a dually truck takes a bit more planning, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. With the proper preparation and a reliable carrier, your truck can be shipped safely and on schedule. Understanding your truck’s size, carrier options, and pricing factors helps you make informed decisions.
Get Started with Your Dually Truck Shipping with AmeriFreight Auto Transport
AmeriFreight Auto Transport specializes in heavy-duty and dually truck transport. Our experienced agents match your vehicle with the right carrier and guide you through every step.
What We Offer
Nationwide shipping across the continental U.S.
Open and enclosed carrier options for standard and luxury vehicles
Multi-vehicle transport for dealers and wholesale buyers
Flexible pickup scheduling coordinated with auction dates
Licensed and bonded auto transport broker (DOT MC-597401, USDOT-2238770)
Whether you're relocating your work truck, selling across the country, or starting a car hauling business, AmeriFreight Auto Transport has the experience and expertise to handle your dually.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to ship a dually truck?
Prices range from $925 to $1,850 for short-distance open transport. Enclosed and flatbed options cost more depending on distance and size.
How long does dually truck shipping take?
Most shipments take 7-14 days total, including 3-7 days to find a carrier and 1-3 days per 1,000 miles of transit time.
Can my dually fit on a standard car carrier?
Most standard duallies fit on regular carriers, but lifted or extra-wide trucks or vehicles over 6 inches higher than stock may need flatbed transport.
Do I need a CDL to ship my dually?
Not for personal shipping. You only need a CDL for commercial hauling operations.
What insurance covers my truck?
Personal policies cover non-commercial shipments, and AmeriFreight carriers include liability coverage. Optional gap protection is available for extra security.
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and does not provide legal, financial, or tax advice. Always consult with a licensed professional before making decisions related to vehicle sales or financing.
