How do you ship an ATV safely?
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A straight answer from the ShipMyCar US auto transport team, plus the details that matter before you book.
Quick Answer
Short answer: Book a licensed carrier that handles powersports, prepare the ATV by cleaning it, photographing it, securing loose parts and checking the battery and tires, choose open or enclosed transport, and make sure it's secured with soft straps or on a pallet.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
Steps to Ship an ATV
Look for a licensed, insured company that ships ATVs and side-by-sides regularly. Compare a few quotes and check reviews.
Clean it, photograph it from every angle, remove or secure loose parts, check fluids, charge the battery, inflate the tires and fix any leaks.
Open transport is cheaper; enclosed protects against weather and road debris.
Professional carriers use soft-tie straps or strap the ATV to a pallet for forklift handling, never hooks through bodywork.
Shipping With Other Vehicles
ATVs and UTVs can often ride on the same carrier as cars or on a flatbed with other equipment, which lowers the cost. See ATV shipping cost factors, motorcycle shipping and heavy equipment shipping.
How ATVs Are Loaded and Secured
ATVs and UTVs are usually shipped on flatbeds, hotshot trailers or alongside cars on a carrier, depending on size and route. They're driven or winched on, then secured at the frame or wheels with soft straps so the suspension isn't overcompressed. Larger side-by-sides may need a flatbed or a dedicated trailer spot.
ATV Prep Checklist
- Wash off mud so damage is easy to see.
- Lower the fuel to about a quarter tank.
- Check the battery and tires.
- Remove loose accessories, bags and coolers.
- Secure or remove windshields and mirrors.
- Note any lifts, oversized tires or modifications at booking.
- Take photos from every side.
Cost and Timing
ATV shipping is often less than shipping a car because ATVs take less space, but cost depends on distance, size and the equipment needed. Transit times are similar to car shipping. See our ATV shipping cost FAQ or the heavy equipment shipping page for larger machines.
Quick Answers
Often, yes. Shipping them on the same booking can lower the total cost.
Not for domestic ground transport. Crating is mainly for international freight.
Yes. Tell us at booking so the carrier brings a winch.
Related Questions
Source: every broker and carrier's operating authority, safety rating, and insurance status is public record — verify any company for free at the FMCSA SAFER System.
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