Big loads do not ship like cars. RVs, boats, and other oversized vehicles need specialized trailers, sometimes permits, and occasionally escort vehicles. The right service depends on what you are moving and how big it is. Here is a quick map, with current 2026 cost ranges and links to the right Direct Connect service for each.
Anything wider than 8 feet 6 inches, taller than 13 feet 6 inches, longer than 53 feet, or heavier than 80,000 pounds is legally “oversize” and triggers state permits, which a good carrier arranges for you.
Shipping an RV or Motorhome
RVs ship one of two ways: drive-away, where a driver operates the unit to its destination, or flatbed and tow transport for units that cannot or should not be driven. Expect roughly $1.00 to $1.50 per mile for drive-away and $2.00 to $4.00 per mile for flatbed or towing. A 2,500-mile cross-country move runs about $2,500 to $5,000 drive-away and $5,000 to $10,000 by flatbed, depending on RV class. Travel trailers and fifth wheels are towed and typically land between $2,500 and $6,500 cross-country.
Class A motorhomes and tall rigs often exceed height limits and need oversize permits, usually $15 to $150 per state. Peak summer months (May through September) run 15% to 20% higher, so book three to four weeks ahead.
See full details and get a quote on our RV shipping services page.
Shipping a Boat
Boat transport is priced by size and width. A boat under 30 feet usually runs $1.50 to $3.00 per mile, while larger vessels climb to $3.00 to $6.00 or more per mile. A 2,500-mile overland move typically costs $3,000 to $8,000 depending on the boat and trailer.
Width is the factor that surprises owners. The moment your boat’s beam clears 8 feet 6 inches on the trailer, it becomes an oversize load: permits run $15 to $150 per state, and very wide loads may need a pilot car or front-and-rear escorts. Your transporter handles the permits and folds the cost into your quote.
Shipping an Oversized or Non-Standard Vehicle
Lifted trucks, extended vans, equipment, and other oddly shaped vehicles that will not fit a standard carrier ride on a flatbed or open carrier built for the load. Pricing depends on dimensions and weight, and anything over the oversize thresholds adds permit and possible escort costs. Non-running units need a winch or specialized loading, which adds to the rate.
For these, flatbed and open transport is the usual answer. Our how it works page covers the flatbed option, and for high-value or specialty vehicles, enclosed transport adds full protection.
Quick Comparison
| What you’re shipping | Typical method | 2026 cross-country range | Oversize permits? |
|---|---|---|---|
| RV / motorhome | Drive-away or flatbed | $2,500 to $10,000 | Often, if tall or long |
| Travel trailer / 5th wheel | Tow-away | $2,500 to $6,500 | Sometimes, by length |
| Boat under 30 ft | Overland trailer | $3,000 to $8,000 | If the beam is over 8’6″ |
| Oversized/non-standard vehicle | Flatbed/open | Varies by size | If over the limits |
Why Direct Connect Auto Transport
Direct Connect is veteran-owned, founded in 2001, and led by John Costelac with more than 24 years of experience and an A+ BBB rating. We coordinate vetted, licensed carriers for standard and oversize loads, handle the permit legwork, and tell you straight which service fits your rig.
Not sure where your load lands? Get a free quote or call 800-980-2222 and we will point you to the right service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as an oversized load?
Anything wider than 8 feet 6 inches, taller than 13 feet 6 inches, longer than 53 feet, or heavier than 80,000 pounds. Loads over these limits need state oversize permits, which your carrier arranges.
How much does it cost to ship an RV cross-country?
Roughly $2,500 to $5,000 for drive-away service and $5,000 to $10,000 for flatbed, depending on RV class and distance. Summer rates run higher.
Do I need a permit to ship my boat?
If your boat’s width on the trailer exceeds 8 feet 6 inches, yes. Permits run $15 to $150 per state, and very wide loads may require escort vehicles. Your transporter handles this.
Can you ship a non-running RV or oversized vehicle?
Yes. Non-running units ship by flatbed with winch loading, which adds to the cost. Disclose the unit’s condition at booking so we assign the right equipment.