How to Safely Ship an Electric Vehicle in 2025: Regulations, Costs & Pro Tips
Shipping an electric vehicle (EV) in 2025 isn’t as simple as calling and reserving a spot on a car carrier. We see new federal regulations in place, battery safety requirements, and we know the unique needs of EVs during transport. Car owners should be prepared to ensure a smooth and challenges-free electric vehicle shipping process.
Whether you’re relocating, buying or selling an EV, or shipping your personal Tesla, Rivian, or Nissan Leaf from coast to coast, understanding the nuances of how to ship an electric car can save you time, money, and stress.
In this guide, we will walk you through the latest 2025 FMCSA battery transport regulations, cost expectations, the choice between open vs. enclosed EV transport, and expert tips to keep your EV safe every mile of the journey.
Is Shipping EVs is a specialized service?
Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars and electric vehicles might look similar on the outside, but when it comes to shipping, they are different. The lithium-ion batteries that power EVs require extra care and compliance with federal rules due to the fire risk associated with damaged or improperly charged cells.
Additionally, EVs tend to be heavier than their internal combustion counterparts. That means fewer vehicles per carrier and different loading/unloading procedures.
If you treat EV transport the same way you’d ship a gas-powered car, you might face delays, extra fees, or even damage to your vehicle.
What Could Go Wrong Without Proper EV Shipping?
Imagine your EV arriving at its final destination with a drained battery, damage to its undercarriage from improper strapping, or even delays due to non-compliance with new 2025 FMCSA rules. Worse yet, what if your transporter didn’t account for your vehicle’s weight, leading to overloading violations or unsafe travel conditions?
Shipping an EV without understanding the regulations or hiring an experienced transporter can lead to:
- Battery damage or hazardous conditions if not charged to the proper state before shipping.
- Fines or transport delays due to non-compliance with new federal rules on lithium-ion battery transport.
- Unnecessary exposure to the elements if open carriers are used without consideration of the vehicle’s value.
- Unexpected costs due to extra weight, special handling, or the need for enclosed transport.
The stakes are high – which is why proper planning and the right auto transport partner are essential.
Safe, Compliant, and Smart EV Shipping in 2025
Let us describe everything you need to know to ship your electric car safely and legally in 2025:
1. Understand the 2025 FMCSA Lithium Battery Regulations
In response to increasing EV ownership and battery fire incidents during transport, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) introduced new guidelines in 2025 focusing on the safe transport of vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries.
Key 2025 EV shipping regulations include:
- Mandatory battery inspection before shipping to check for damage or swelling.
- State of Charge guidelines: All EVs must be shipped at 30% to 50% charge to minimize fire risk while maintaining enough power for loading and unloading.
- Certified transporters only: Carriers must be trained in EV handling, including how to disconnect battery systems if necessary.
These regulations are not just red tape – they’re designed to protect your vehicle and everyone else on the road. Always ask your vehicle shipping company if they are following all FMCSA requirements for EVs.
2. Open vs. Enclosed EV Transport: What’s Best?
When you ship an electric car, you have two main options: open carrier transport or enclosed carrier transport. Both have pros and cons depending on your needs.
Open Carrier Transport
Pros:
- More affordable (up to 40% cheaper than enclosed).
- Readily available with more frequent departures.
Cons:
- Exposes the vehicle to weather, dust, and debris.
- Less protection for high-value or luxury EVs.
Enclosed Carrier Transport
Pros:
- Full protection from weather and road conditions.
- Preferred for high-end EVs (like Lucid Air, Tesla Plaid, Porsche Taycan).
Cons:
- Higher cost.
- Fewer carriers available (so possibly longer wait times).
Pro Tip: If you’re shipping an EV valued at over $60,000 or transporting in winter or rainy seasons, enclosed transport is highly recommended.
3. Pre-Shipment Battery Charge Guidelines (SoC)
A critical step before handing over your EV is ensuring it’s charged to the correct level. The FMCSA and most auto shipping companies now require a State of Charge (SoC) between 30% and 50%.
Why this range?
- Lower fire risk: Fully charged batteries are more volatile.
- Enough energy: 30%–50% allows for safe loading/unloading and short drives at pickup or delivery.
Avoid charging your EV fully the night before shipping — it could delay pickup or even result in refusal to transport.
4. Current EV Shipping Costs in 2025
Shipping an electric car costs more than a regular vehicle due to its weight, battery handling, and special equipment. Here are some real-world rate examples to give you an idea of current EV shipping prices:
Route Type Transport Estimated Cost
- Los Angeles to Miami Tesla Model Y Open $1,350 – $1,600
- New York to Austin Rivian R1T Enclosed $2,200 – $2,500
- San Francisco to Seattle Nissan Leaf Open $800 – $1,000
- Chicago to Denver Hyundai IONIQ 6 Enclosed $1,700 – $2,000
Note: Rates vary depending on season, route demand, fuel prices, and car carrier availability.
5. Choosing the Right Auto Transport Partner
The EV shipping process is only as smooth as the transporter you choose. Don’t settle for a generalist carrier. Instead, seek a company that:
- Has specific experience with EVs and hybrid vehicles.
- Offers FMCSA-compliant and EV-certified services.
- Provides real-time tracking and reliable customer support.
- Can confirm insurance coverage for electric vehicles (some exclude battery-related incidents).
- Look for customer reviews that mention EV-specific transport and safety measures.
6. Top Pro Tips for EV Shipping in 2025
Before booking your electric car transport, follow these expert recommendations:
- Document the vehicle condition with photos and videos before pickup.
- Remove all personal items, especially electronics, which can interfere with the battery system.
- Ask if the transporter uses non-conductive straps – ideal for EVs to prevent shorts.
- Request a liftgate or soft-ramp loading option for low-clearance EVs.
- Plan for delivery charging – locate nearby charging stations at your destination in advance.
Planning Makes All the Difference!
Plan your dates, your preferences, plan your budget for shipping an EV even, check with friends or family to help you when it comes to pick-up or delivery. In 2025, shipping an electric vehicle isn’t just about cost and convenience — it’s about safety, compliance, and peace of mind. With new federal rules, specialized care requirements, and increasing demand, preparation is your best asset.
Whether you’re a first-time EV owner or a seasoned green vehicle enthusiast, taking the time to understand the EV shipping process can prevent all sort of mistakes.
Request an Instant EV Shipping Quote
Don’t leave your EV transport to chance. Work with Corsia’s experienced team who know how to safely and efficiently ship electric cars across the country. All of our carriers are vetted and prepared to ship an EV.
Get an instant EV-ready quote today and move your electric vehicle with confidence.
