A modified truck, lowered sports car, lifted sport utility vehicle, or full-blown show car cannot be shipped as a standard car using a standard auto transport carrier. Special equipment, training and a carrier with the experience to transport a non-factory built car are essential. This is one reason many owners ask, Are there custom vehicle shippers?
The short answer is yes, although not all custom vehicle shippers are created equal, nor do they cover the United States equally with their services. In this section, we will discuss how nationwide availability works, what carriers can transport your custom cars, and how to find a partner for your vehicle transport needs if you are using a website like Shipping-Your-Car.com that connects you to reliable providers from across the country.
Step 1: Understand What “Custom Vehicle Shipping” Really Means
Before determining whether services are available nationally, it is helpful to understand how to identify a custom vehicle. A carrier may consider a vehicle to be “custom” if it has modifications that may affect:
- Size
- Weight
- Ground clearance
- Tie-down needs
- Loading angles
- Height restrictions
- Vehicle value
Examples of custom vehicles include:
- Lifted trucks or Jeeps
- Lowered sports cars
- Air-bagged vehicles
- Classic cars with extensive upgrades
- Off-road rigs with oversized tires
- Wide-body sports cars
- Show cars with fragile bodywork
- Custom-painted or wrapped vehicles
Because of the special care needed for these vehicles, only a few of the country’s carriers have the equipment and expertise.
Step 2: Learn How Nationwide Coverage Works for Custom Transport
American custom carriers will also ship you anywhere in the country, but they may not be evenly spread. There may be carriers everywhere willing to ship your car, but custom shippers may be concentrated in certain areas with high demand:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- Georgia
- New York
- Arizona
- Nevada
Also, other sites such as Shipping-Your-Car.com have a network of thousands of professional car carriers that cover all areas of the U.S., even in remote areas or rare shipping zones.
- A large carrier network with custom-ready equipment
- Regional partnerships with specialty transporters
- Flexible routing that adapts to your vehicle type
- Nationwide enclosed trailer availability
However, if you live in a small town, the carrier may either have a pickup hub within driving distance or may need to drive a small truck instead.
Step 3: Know What Types of Carriers Handle Custom Vehicles Nationwide
Not all auto transport companies specialize in custom vehicles, but several types of carriers do:
1. Enclosed Transport Carriers
These are the most common choice for custom vehicles. They offer:
- Full protection from weather and debris
- Liftgate loading for low-clearance cars
- Soft-strap tie-downs
- Climate control in some trailers
2. Specialty Flatbed Services
Best suited for large or irregularly-shaped custom vehicles.
3. Multi-Car Enclosed Haulers
Useful for showing teams, clubs, or dealerships carrying several custom cars to one location.
4. Custom-Rig Transporters
- Designed for high-value or modified vehicles.
- These nationwide carriers may cover anywhere in the country, regardless of its geographical location.
Step 4: Understand Why Nationwide Availability Matters for Custom Vehicles
Custom vehicles cannot be treated the same as standard cars, so full coverage across the country is more important than expected.
You need a carrier with:
- Experience handling modifications
- Proper insurance for high-value builds
- Equipment that accommodates height or clearance challenges
- Drivers trained in specialty loading and securing
- Routes that ensure minimal risks
For example, a slammed sports car may require a hydraulic lift gate or a lifted truck may require an enclosed trailer with sufficient height. Only nationwide specialty carriers can consistently transport and protect such vehicles.
Step 5: Learn How to Book Nationwide Custom Shipping the Right Way
Information is provided so the shipper can send the right equipment.
1. Describe Your Vehicle Honestly and Fully
Include details such as:
- Height after modifications
- Additional width (wide-body kits)
- Stretched frames
- Oversized tires
- Custom paintwork
- Ground clearance measurements
Accurate info ensures the shipper sends the proper equipment.
2. Request Enclosed Transport When Possible
This is essential for high-value or delicate builds.
3. Ask the Carrier About Their Custom Vehicle Experience
Questions you should ask include:
- How many custom vehicles have you shipped?
- What equipment do you use for low-clearance cars?
- Do your drivers have custom vehicle handling training?
4. Confirm Nationwide Availability and Routing
Some routes may have flexible pickup windows.
5. Verify Insurance Coverage
Keeping adequate carrier protection is needed in this case to maintain resale value.
You can find carriers that specialize in this type of shipment when you visit Shipping-Your-Car.com, making this a simple process.
Step 6: Look for Signs of a High-Quality Nationwide Custom Transport Provider
A reliable custom car carrier should offer:
- Enclosed shipping options
- Liftgate or low-angle loading ramps
- Detailed inspection reports
- Protective soft straps
- High insurance limits
- Up-to-date DOT and FMCSA credentials
- Real customer reviews showing successful custom vehicle transports
If the company cannot describe its custom-handling process in detail, then that may signal that the company is not a good fit.
Why Using Shipping-Your-Car.com Makes Nationwide Custom Shipping Easier
Platforms like Shipping-Your-Car.com streamline the process by matching customers with carriers who:
- Have experience with all types of modified and specialty vehicles
- Operate on nationwide routes
- Provide enclosed and specialty transport
- Offer high-value insurance protection
- Deliver clear communication and scheduling
- Understand the needs of luxury, show, and collector vehicles
Instead of spending time calling multiple carriers to check availability, you are matched with carriers that meet your specifications.
Final Thoughts
only when you deal with a carrier that transports modified, high-value, or specially built vehicles.
Nationwide car shipping can be eased via transporters trained and equipped for transport of custom vehicles. Understanding the transport requirements for your vehicle, ensuring the transporter has appropriate equipment, and using a reputable car carrier service like Shipping-Your-Car.com helps ensure your car is well protected during transport.
For full peace of mind, ensure you hire movers that understand the details of moving custom-built machines.
