Can you ship a golf cart? Yes, you can ship a golf cart. Many ways exist to move your golf cart from one place to another. This guide helps you pick the best way for your needs. We look at costs, safety, and the best steps to take.
Picking the Right Way to Transport a Golf Cart
Moving a golf cart needs good planning. You have different choices. Each one fits a different budget and timeline. Think about where the cart is going. Is it far away? Do you need it there fast? These questions shape your plan.
Factors Affecting Your Shipping Choice
Several things change how you move your golf cart. Knowing these helps you save money and keep it safe.
- Distance: Short moves are cheaper than long ones. Moving a golf cart across country takes more work.
- Type of Cart: Heavy or large carts cost more to move. Standard golf carts are easier than utility carts.
- Speed Needed: Fast shipping always costs more than slow shipping.
- Protection Level: Do you need an enclosed trailer golf cart transport? Open transport is cheaper but offers less protection.
- Value of the Cart: Very expensive carts might need extra insurance.
Getting Quotes for Golf Cart Shipping Cost
The golf cart shipping cost varies a lot. You must shop around. Do not just pick the first company you find. Get many quotes to find a cheap deal.
How to Shop for Good Rates
Start early to find the best price. Good preparation saves you cash.
- Measure and Weigh: Know the exact size and weight of your cart. This stops surprise fees later.
- Compare Different Services: Look at standard freight, dedicated transport, and using specialized moving services.
- Ask About Fuel Surcharges: These fees change often. Know how they affect the final price.
- Check for Hidden Fees: Ask if loading or unloading help costs extra money.
The golf cart shipping cost can range from a few hundred dollars for local moves to over a thousand for long distances. Specialized services often cost more than standard LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight.
Preparing Your Golf Cart for Transport
Safety starts before the cart leaves your driveway. Proper prep prevents damage on the road. This is vital whether you use ATV shipping services or dedicated cart movers.
Cleaning and Inspection
Clean your cart well. Dirt and mud can hide damage. Take pictures of the cart from all sides. These photos are your proof if something goes wrong during the move.
- Check tire pressure.
- Make sure lights and signals work.
- Note any existing dents or scratches.
Securing Loose Parts
Anything loose can fall off or hit the cart body during transit. Secure everything well.
- Remove all personal items.
- Take off accessories like coolers or flags.
- Lock the steering wheel if possible.
- Tie down or remove any attached cargo boxes.
Battery Safety
Batteries can cause issues during shipping if not handled right.
- If using a lead-acid battery, disconnect the negative terminal. This prevents accidental shorts.
- If the cart is electric, ensure the battery is fully charged or completely disconnected, based on the carrier’s rules. Some golf cart logistics providers have strict rules about batteries.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
The best way to ship a golf cart depends on your budget and how careful you need to be. Different methods offer different levels of care and speed.
Open Trailer Transport (The Cheapest Option)
This is usually the most affordable way to move a cart. Your golf cart sits exposed on an open trailer or flatbed.
- Pros: Lower cost. Good for short moves or newer carts in good weather.
- Cons: Exposed to road dirt, rocks, and bad weather.
Enclosed Trailer Golf Cart Transport (Better Protection)
This method puts your cart inside a box trailer. It costs more than open transport but keeps the cart safe from the elements. This is highly recommended if you are moving a golf cart across country.
- Pros: Excellent protection from weather and road debris. More secure.
- Cons: Higher price tag than open transport.
Golf Cart Freight Shipping (For Multiple Carts or Long Hauls)
If you are moving many carts, or if the distance is very long, using golf cart freight shipping via LTL carriers might be wise. They treat it like any other palletized freight.
- Preparation: You must secure the cart onto a skid or heavy pallet. This is crucial for freight handling equipment.
- Check Requirements: Freight terminals use forklifts. Ensure your cart can be safely loaded onto a pallet and lifted.
Dedicated Vehicle Transport
Some motorcycle shipping companies also offer services for small vehicles like golf carts. They often use enclosed trailers dedicated only to vehicles. This offers high security but is usually the most expensive option.
Working with Specialized Golf Cart Logistics Providers
When moving specialty vehicles, using specialists can simplify things. Golf cart logistics providers know the specific needs of these vehicles. They often handle loading and unloading better than general freight companies.
Advantages of Specialists
- They know the proper tie-down points for different cart models.
- They often have insurance policies tailored for vehicle transport.
- They can manage pickup and delivery at locations that standard LTL carriers might refuse (like residential areas).
Shipping Internationally: International Golf Cart Shipping
International golf cart shipping adds layers of complexity. You must deal with customs, duties, and specialized ocean freight.
Steps for International Moves
- Determine Value: Customs officials need the cart’s value for tax calculation.
- Containerization: The cart must be secured inside an ocean shipping container. This often requires crating or building a specialized wooden frame around it.
- Paperwork: You need a Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, and proof of ownership. Errors here cause major delays at the port.
- Hire a Broker: Using a customs broker is almost essential for international shipping. They manage the paperwork and port releases.
Shipping overseas can take weeks or months. Plan far ahead if you are moving internationally.
Comparing Shipping Costs: A Quick Guide
To give you a general idea, here is a sample comparison table. Note that these are just estimates.
| Shipping Method | Typical Distance | Estimated Cost Range | Protection Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Pickup/Delivery | Under 100 Miles | \$150 – \$300 | Low to Medium | Quick local needs |
| Open Trailer (Regional) | 100 – 500 Miles | \$300 – \$600 | Medium | Budget-conscious moves |
| Enclosed Transport | 500+ Miles | \$700 – \$1500+ | High | High-value carts, all-weather protection |
| LTL Freight Shipping | Long Distance | \$500 – \$1000 | Medium (Must be crated) | Moving multiple carts |
Essential Documentation and Insurance
Never ship a vehicle without proper paperwork and insurance. This protects your investment.
Title and Proof of Ownership
You must prove you own the golf cart. Carriers need this to verify the shipment is legitimate. Make copies of the title or bill of sale. Keep the originals with you.
Insurance Coverage
Standard carrier liability insurance is often very low—sometimes only \$0.50 per pound. This is not enough for a full golf cart.
- Primary Insurance: Purchase separate transit insurance that covers the full replacement value of your cart.
- Carrier Insurance: Ask what the carrier’s base liability is. If you use an enclosed trailer golf cart transport, ask if their insurance covers the full value since it is protected.
Specialized Moves: When You Need to Transport a Golf Cart Like an ATV
Sometimes, you need to transport a golf cart alongside other recreational vehicles. In this case, you might look toward ATV shipping services. These services are used to handling open-air vehicles.
How ATV Shippers Handle Carts
ATV shippers often use open trailers because ATVs are usually dirty or rugged. They are used to securing items tightly to prevent shifting.
- Tie-Down Points: Make sure they use strong, padded straps on the frame, not just the plastic bodywork.
- Ramps and Loading: Verify they have ramps suitable for the golf cart’s lower clearance if it is a street-legal model.
If your cart is lifted or customized, talk to the carrier about the extra height and weight before they give you a final price.
Tips for Saving Money When Shipping
Everyone wants a cheap shipping solution. Here are practical ways to cut down the golf cart shipping cost.
Flexibility in Scheduling
Carriers love filling empty space. If you can be flexible with pickup and delivery dates, you might get a discount. Tell the carrier you don’t need immediate pickup.
Using Door-to-Terminal Service
If the carrier allows it, picking up your cart at their terminal, rather than having them deliver it directly to your home, saves them time and mileage. This often reduces the overall price. This is common with golf cart freight shipping.
Shipping During Off-Peak Seasons
Shipping during the winter or early spring is usually cheaper than during the summer rush (peak season for recreational travel).
Combining Shipments
If you are moving a golf cart across country along with other items, see if one carrier can handle it all. Sometimes bundling services offers a better rate. If you are also shipping a motorcycle, ask if the motorcycle shipping companies you contact can bundle the vehicles.
Safety Checks Upon Delivery
The job isn’t done until you have checked the cart at the destination. Do not sign the delivery receipt until you inspect everything thoroughly.
Inspection Checklist at Delivery
- Look for Obvious Damage: Check the roof, windshield, and body panels first.
- Check Tires: Are they still inflated to the correct level?
- Test Operation: Turn the key and check if the cart runs (if electric, check the battery connection).
- Check for Missing Parts: Did any secured items fall off or get lost?
If you see any damage, document it immediately on the delivery paperwork before signing. Take photos right there. Contact your insurance provider right away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I drive my golf cart onto the shipping truck?
A: Sometimes. If the carrier uses a flatbed or open trailer, they may ask you to drive it on. For LTL golf cart freight shipping, the cart must usually be crated or palletized, so you cannot drive it on directly. Always confirm loading procedures with your chosen provider.
Q: Is it cheaper to ship my golf cart via LTL or dedicated transport?
A: LTL (golf cart freight shipping) is usually cheaper if you are willing to have the cart secured on a pallet and picked up/dropped off at terminals. Dedicated transport offers door-to-door service and better handling but costs more.
Q: Do I need a special license to hire ATV shipping services for my cart?
A: No, you do not need a special license. The shipping company holds the necessary commercial licenses (like DOT or MC numbers) required to legally operate the transport vehicle. You only need proof of ownership.
Q: How does international shipping insurance compare to domestic insurance?
A: International insurance is often more complex. It must cover potential damage at sea, port delays, and different handling procedures. It is crucial to get comprehensive marine insurance when using international golf cart shipping services, as standard carrier liability is often voided overseas.
Q: Are there specific requirements if I use motorcycle shipping companies?
A: Yes. Motorcycle shippers are experts in securing two- or three-wheeled vehicles. For a golf cart, they may treat it like a large ATV. They will focus heavily on securing the wheels and suspension. Ensure they know it has four wheels and a different weight distribution than a standard bike.