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Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Shipping (2026 Guide)
Shipping a hybrid or electric vehicle can feel overwhelming. These cars have complex batteries, extra weight, and unique electrical systems that require more than standard handling.
Unlike gas-powered cars, hybrids and EVs need extra care before, during, and after transport. Choosing an experienced transport company helps ensure your vehicle’s technology and safety systems are protected from pickup to delivery.
This guide explains the right way to ship your hybrid or electric vehicle safely and confidently.
What You’ll Learn
In this guide, we will answer:
What’s the safest way to ship a hybrid or electric vehicle in 2026?
How can you prepare your EV or hybrid before it’s picked up?
Is open or enclosed transport the better choice for your budget and vehicle type?
Overview
Why Hybrid & EV Shipping Needs a Slightly Different Playbook
Hybrid and electric vehicles don’t all work the same way, and that matters when it comes to shipping them safely. There are three main types of electrified vehicles, and understanding their differences helps explain why transportation companies handle them differently.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): These use both a regular gas engine and a small electric motor (think of the standard Toyota Prius). The battery charges itself while you drive, so there’s no need to plug it in.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): These models also combine a gas engine and an electric motor, but they feature a larger battery that must be plugged in to achieve the maximum electric-only driving range. Popular examples include newer models from Jeep, BMW, and Ford.
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs or EVs): These run completely on electricity with no gas engine at all. They utilize a large battery and electric motor, similar to those found in Tesla, Rivian, or Hyundai IONIQ models.
When shipping these vehicles, the differences in their design can affect:
Battery Charge Level: Large lithium-ion batteries must be shipped in a safe state of charge (SOC), typically around 50 to 60 percent, to prevent damage or safety risks.
Weight and Tie-Downs: EV batteries add significant weight, which affects the vehicle's balance when transported on a truck. Carriers must secure these cars using approved tie-down points to stay compliant with federal regulations.
Smart Features and Settings: Modern EVs often come with alarms, motion sensors (like Tesla’s Sentry Mode), or scheduled charging times. These should be turned off before shipping to avoid battery drain or accidental triggers during transport.
The Best Way to Ship a Hybrid Vehicle
One effective option for shipping a hybrid or electric vehicle is to work with an auto transport broker like AmeriFreight, which arranges shipments with licensed and insured carriers.
Shipping Recommendation
For optimal results, select a door-to-door service with EV-aware dispatching. Your vehicle will be handled by licensed carriers who confirm they understand proper EV securement practices..
Open vs. Enclosed Transport for Hybrid Cars (2026): Costs & When to Choose
Choosing between open and enclosed transport comes down to finding the right balance between cost and protection. The good news is that both methods are entirely safe for shipping your hybrid or electric vehicle.
When Open Transport Makes Sense
Open transport is the most common and affordable way to ship a vehicle. It’s an excellent fit for:
Every day hybrids or EVs, such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime or Ford Escape Hybrid.
Mild climates and shorter routes, where weather exposure is less of a concern.
Budget-conscious shipping, since open transport usually costs much less than enclosed transport.
When Enclosed Transport Is Worth It
Enclosed transport offers a fully covered trailer, protecting your car from weather, dirt, and road debris. It’s a wise choice if you’re shipping:
High-value or collector vehicles, especially those worth more than $50,000.
Luxury or classic hybrids/EVs, such as the Audi e-tron or high-end Lexus and Acura models.
Through harsh weather conditions, like snow, ice, or extreme heat.
On long-distance trips, your vehicle will be on the road for several days.
Cost Influences in 2026
When calculating the open vs enclosed transport cost for hybrid cars, keep these major factors in mind:
Distance and Lane Demand: The longer the distance, the higher the total cost. "Hot" lanes (high-demand routes, such as coast-to-coast) may cost more per mile.
Vehicle Size and Weight: EV and PHEV batteries add significant weight. Because transport carriers are federally regulated by weight, heavier EVs can sometimes increase the price compared to a similar-sized gas car.
Method Choice: Open transport is the baseline. Requesting top-load placement is a small premium, while enclosed transport can add 40 to 70 percent to the cost.
Seasonality: The peak summer moving season and holidays typically result in higher prices.
How to Prepare a Hybrid for Transport
Preparing your vehicle for transport is one of the most crucial steps, especially for hybrids and electric vehicles with large battery packs. Follow this checklist to make sure your car is safe and ready to go:
Charge the Battery: Keep the battery charge between 50 and 60 percent. This helps prevent damage during transport. Do not ship the vehicle with a completely full or empty battery unless your manual or carrier says otherwise.
Turn Off Smart Features: Turn off motion sensors, alarms, GPS tracking, and Tesla’s Sentry Mode. These features can drain the battery while your vehicle is being shipped.
Remove Personal Items: Take out all personal belongings and portable charging cables. Only factory-installed parts are covered by insurance.
Take Photos: Before pickup, take clear, dated photos of the car from all sides. Include the dashboard (to show mileage and battery level) and the underbody if possible. This helps with any future insurance claims.
Check Tires and Battery: Make sure the tires are properly inflated and the 12-volt battery (which powers locks and alarms) is in good working condition.
Provide Keys: Give the driver your main key or key fob and tell them about any special steps for starting or charging the car.
Be Present at Pickup and Delivery: You or a trusted person must be there for the Bill of Lading (BOL) inspection when the car is picked up and when it’s delivered. This document shows the condition of your vehicle before and after transport.
Is It Safe to Transport Your Hybrid Car?
It is safe to ship a hybrid car when you choose a licensed, professional carrier with experience. Professional auto transport is a highly regulated industry. Reputable carriers:
Follow Tie-Down Points: They use manufacturer-recommended securement points on the chassis, not on suspension or body components, to protect the battery housing and frame.
Adhere to Weight Limits: They load vehicles carefully to comply with federal and state axle-weight limits, taking into account the added weight of large battery packs.
Manage Protocols: They are aware of the battery SOC guidance and the need to disable smart features.
Addressing Common Concerns
Why Choose AmeriFreight for Hybrid & EV Shipping
Choosing AmeriFreight Auto Transport means selecting an auto transport broker dedicated to a straightforward process and high service standards, particularly for modern vehicles.
Door-to-Door Service (Location Permitting)
We coordinate pickup and delivery as close to your chosen location as possible, subject to legal and safety requirements.
Final Thoughts: Ship Smart, Drive Easy
Shipping your hybrid or electric vehicle doesn’t have to be stressful. With careful planning and an experienced transport company, your car will arrive safely and ready to drive. Knowing what to expect makes the process simple and gives you peace of mind.
Ready To Ship Your Hybrid or Electric Vehicle With Confidence?
For more than 20 years, AmeriFreight Auto Transport has established a strong reputation as a trusted auto transport broker, assisting thousands of customers nationwide in moving their vehicles safely and efficiently.
We work with a carefully vetted network of licensed and insured carriers who understand the specific needs of hybrid and electric vehicles. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Get your free, no obligation quote now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What charge level should I leave in my EV or hybrid?
Keep the battery at 50 to 60 percent charge. Most manufacturers and carriers recommend this range for safe transport.
Can I leave the charging cable or personal items in the car?
No, per DOT regulations. Remove all personal belongings, including electronics and clothing. Charging cables should be secured in the trunk or removed, since carrier insurance does not cover personal items.
Is it safe to ship a hybrid car on a truck?
Yes. Licensed carriers use approved tie-down points and adhere to federal safety standards to properly secure hybrid and electric vehicles.
Do I need to be present for pickup/delivery?
Yes. You or an authorized representative must be present to sign the Bill of Lading (BOL) and confirm the vehicle’s condition at pickup and delivery.
What is the Bill of Lading, and why does it matter?
The BOL is the official inspection and legal document that records the condition of your vehicle before transport. You must sign it, and it’s required for any damage claim.
