9 Mins
Feb 3, 2025

Tesla Car Shipping: Everything You Need to Know

Tesla is by far the pioneer brand of electric vehic technology. Their vehicles like the original Tesla Model 3 and the new updated version Tesla Model 3 Highland, the original Tesla Model Y and the new updated version Tesla Model Y Juniper, and Tesla Cybertruck and it's powerful version Tesla Cyberbeast represent the pinnacle of electric vehicle innovation of United States. To ship these advanced machines requires expert transportation skills, precision, and a deep insight into their special kind of engineering. So, whether you are moving cross-country for your new Tesla or you buy a Tesla without being there, the guide avails all the factors to take into account during the Tesla car shipping—and why Bold Auto Transport can be the right partner so your EV arrives in mint condition.

Tesla Car Shipping - Valuable Tips from Bold Auto Transport

The revolutionary battery technology from Tesla demands special attention during Tesla car transport. This task would bring the different battery chemistries into perspective. Tesla uses a variety of battery technologies in powering its vehicles, employing Nickel-Cobalt-Aluminum (NCA) and Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt (NMC) batteries. While NCA batteries have a very high energy density suitable for the long-range and performance-oriented models, their charging should be limited to between 20 to 90 percent to maximize service life. NMC batteries are a further development of NCA cells that have opted for the lesser demand for cobalt on the grounds of economic feasibility, thereby slightly sacrificing performance. However, the Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery stands out.

The most up-to-date technology is being used in the LFP batteries. Found in newer Model 3 Highland and Model Y Juniper Standard Range models, they represent a significant leap forward in battery safety and durability. These batteries stand up very well against damagesmay incur during car transport. Most importantly, these batteries can be shipped without the concern of fire or explosion, adding extra confidence to the car transport company and the vehicle owner. Because of their robust chemical construction, they are inherently safer than other lithium-ion alternatives, which limit their risk of thermal runaway in an accident or under extreme conditions. These intrinsic safety features guarantee that the batteries are extremely well-suited for Tesla car shipping. It really doesn't matter what type of your battery your Tesla is equipped with, at Bold Auto Transport we demand your VIN number during your order placement, with that we take all the pre-cautions to ensure your Tesla is transported from point A to B with the safest equipments and practices. 

Pro Tip: Disable sentry mode and ensure your Tesla’s battery is charged to 20-30% before shipping. For LFP-equipped models like Model 3 Highland and Model Y Juniper, according to Tesla Service Department charging to 100% is safe and recommended for longer Tesla car transport periods.

Types of Tesla Car Shipping Options

Tesla Enclosed Auto Transport Services

Enclosed Tesla car carrier services offer premium protection for your Tesla; incredibly useful for all Cybertruck models, all Model 3, all Model Y, all Model X and and Model S along with any other high-valued performance models. The glaring advantage is that an enclosed transport shields the car from road debris, weather, or UV rays, very important during long hauls or harsher environments. In doing so, it prevents dust build-up on the sensors and cameras that would hinder the tech in a Tesla from functioning.

Owners prefer enclosed Tesla car transport due to its extra assurance. As an example, the stainless steel exoskeleton of the Cybertruck and the glass roof of Model 3s and the Model Ys require the shelter even that much more. With experienced hands-on, Tesla gets the best protection in an enclosed car shipping service.

Tesla Open Auto Transport Services

Open auto transport allows you to pay less to ship your Tesla while better for short haul distance or mostly for cost reasons. Open carrier Tesla shipping is about 60% cheaper when compared to enclosed transport. Open Tesla car carriers tend to be always available thanks to widespread carrier networks; therefore, faster pickup and delivery may be expected.

On the flip side, open transport exposes your Tesla to weather conditions, road salt, rain, and anything that could be seen flying. Open auto transport is quite secure from shock and vibration; however, what you do need to consider is the potential cosmetic wear to your car while having a Tesla car transport.

Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

Choosing between door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal shipping depends on your priorities.

  • Door-to-Door: Offers you maximum convenience: pickup and delivery are done at the locations you determine. This saves precious time and effort, which usually implies a heavier toll—perfect when things get too busy or the area is just too remote.

  • Terminal-to-Terminal: Requires dropping off and picking up your Tesla at designated terminals. This is the most economical choice but requires a little more work from you. Best for people with flexible timelines and those who live close to the terminals.

For example, when shipping the original Tesla Model 3 or the new Tesla Model 3 Highland from Los Angeles to New York, door-to-door saves you time; however, terminal-to-terminal transport can save you $200-$400. Choosing a reputable Tesla car carrier ensures your vehicle is transported with the utmost care, protecting its battery, sensors, and overall condition.

How to Choose the Right Tesla Car Shipping Service

  • Verify Carrier Expertise: Ensure the company has experience with Tesla shipping—ask about training for handling regenerative braking and transport mode. When shipping a Tesla cross country, it's crucial to select a transport provider that understands the unique requirements of electric vehicles, ensuring safe handling and timely delivery.

  • Check Insurance Coverage: Confirm $0 deductible coverage for structural battery damage and glass components.

  • Read Reviews: Search for testimonials specifically acknowledging success stories for Tesla shipping.

  • Compare Quotes: Enclosed Tesla shipping costs for a Cybertruck averages $1.50-$2.50 per mile, while open transport settles at $0.75-$1.50. Consider contacting Bold Auto Transport to ship a Tesla across country to ensure a safe and efficient Tesla auto transport process.

Benefits of Professional Tesla Car Shipping

Choosing professional Tesla car shipping offers key advantages:

  • Minimized wear and tear: Avoid unnecessary mileage that stresses tires, exacerbate any mechanical problems, or potential damage to the Tesla by road debris such as rock chips on a long-distance cross-country drive.

  • Time-saving: Get your valuable time and energy back from the real transportation process, letting experts do what they do best. You can then, after your Tesla is shipped, spend the latter part of your move or relocation tending to other important aspects, not wasting days behind the wheel.

  • Regulatory compliance: They are updating and adjusting the transport process accordingly to a very complex state-specific regulation regime existing to govern the transport of electric vehicles. They'll guarantee, for you, compliance and outta-scheduling, beyond saving you complications or delays.

If you need to ship a Tesla across country, trust Bold Auto Transport with your Tesla from the outset to the destination. With stress-free shipping and combining state-of-the-art logistics and EV expertise, our team gets your Tesla safely through its trip, be it the sleek lines of the new Model 3 Highland and Model Y Juniper or rugged innovation of the Cybertruck.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a Tesla car?

Tesla auto transport prices vary from $800–$2,500+, depending on distance, method of transport, and model. For example, due to its size, the Tesla Cybertruck is 15-20% more expensive to ship than most regular cars.

How does Tesla transport their cars?

They prefer to use enclosed carriers for factory delivery, employing combinations of rail and specialized trucks to deliver. Many third-party transport providers also offer Tesla car hauling services, ensuring secure and efficient vehicle delivery to dealerships and customers.

How are Tesla cars transported?

Tesla auto shipping is done through open carriers for cost-effectiveness, enclosed carriers for safety, or Ro-Ro ships and containers internationally.

How to transport a Tesla?

In order to transport Tesla cars, choose an experienced auto transport company. Get the quote and decide on door delivery or terminal shipping. You can use Bold’s Car Shipping Cost Calculator to get an instant quote.

Is enclosed shipping necessary for Tesla?

It is strongly recommended for Cybertrucks, matte finishes, severe weather routes, or any Tesla that is precious to you; however, open transport can work for your needs as well.

How long does Tesla shipping take?

Cross-country shipments typically take 5-14 days. Coastal-to-midwest routes average 7-10 days.

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