Vans: Costs, Options, and Best Practices [Vehicles]

Vans are spacious, practical, and often used for families, commercial fleets, or cargo. But when it comes to auto transport, their large size can create challenges.

Whether you’re shipping a minivan, full-size van, or camper conversion, it’s important to understand how vans are handled differently in the auto shipping world.

Auto Transport for Vans

Unlike sedans and compact vehicles, vans often exceed standard dimensions in height, length, or weight. This makes proper quoting, trailer assignment, and space planning critical.

Why Vans Require Special Consideration

Here’s why transporting a van requires more planning:

• Larger size: Vans take up more space on a carrier—sometimes the space of two standard vehicles.
• Weight concerns: Heavier vehicles increase fuel use and limit how many cars a truck can haul.
• Modified interiors or roof heights: Conversion vans, camper vans, or high-roof models may exceed legal height limits for open trailers.
  

Cost Estimate for Shipping a Van

Here’s a basic example of a van shipping estimate:

• Vehicle: 2020 Honda Odyssey (minivan)
• Transport Type: Open carrier
• Route: San Diego, CA (92101) → Kansas City, MO (64101)
• Distance: ~1,600 miles
• Carrier Rate Estimate: $1,150–$1,400

Larger models such as Ford Transit vans, Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, or Ram ProMasters can cost significantly more due to their oversized nature. Some may even require flatbed transport if they don’t fit safely on a standard trailer.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport for Vans

Most standard minivans can be shipped via open transport, which is the most cost-effective and widely used method. However, if you’re transporting a custom van, vintage model, or RV-style camper, enclosed or specialty transport may be required.

Tips for Shipping a Van

1. Measure your van: 
   Length, width, height, and modifications should be known before quoting.
   
2. Empty out cargo: 
   Remove all personal items, tools, or equipment from inside.
3. Note high-roof or extended body models: 
   These may need special handling or flatbed carriers.
4. Be upfront about use: 
   Cargo vans used commercially may have different requirements.
   

Who Commonly Ships Vans?

• Families relocating: 
  Shipping daily drivers like minivans during cross-country moves.
• Small businesses: 
  Transporting cargo vans or fleet vehicles to new service areas.
• Camper van owners: 
  Moving conversion vans for travel or seasonal use.
• Dealerships & upfitters: 
  Delivering new or modified vans to clients or other locations.
• Military families: 
  Vans often serve as the main family vehicle during PCS moves.
  

Vans can be more expensive and complex to ship, but with the right preparation and carrier, the process is smooth and efficient. Knowing your van’s dimensions, condition, and special features is essential to receiving accurate quotes and safe delivery. 

For dependable van transport services nationwide, visit Viceroy Auto Transport, a trusted source for shipping minivans, cargo vans, and custom conversions anywhere in the U.S.