RV Transport Checklist: Everything Your Transport Company Needs to Know

Transporting an RV is different from shipping a standard car or pickup truck. Because RVs vary greatly in size, weight, and condition, providing accurate information is essential for receiving an accurate quote and ensuring the right transport equipment is dispatched.

At MA1 USA Auto Transport LLC, we transport travel trailers, fifth wheels, motorhomes, camper vans, toy haulers, and other recreational vehicles throughout the United States. The more details you provide, the smoother your shipment will be.

1. Year, Make, and Model

Always provide the complete vehicle information.

Example:

Year: 2023
Make: Keystone
Model: Cougar 29RLI

The year, make, and model help verify factory specifications and transport requirements.

2. Overall Length

Length is one of the most important measurements.

Measure from the front hitch or bumper to the rear bumper or ladder, depending on the RV type.

Examples:

Travel Trailer – 32 ft
Fifth Wheel – 40 ft
Class A Motorhome – 38 ft

Incorrect measurements can result in assigning the wrong trailer.

3. Overall Height

Measure from the ground to the highest fixed point on the RV.

Include items such as:

Air conditioners
Satellite domes
Solar panels
Roof vents
Roof racks

Bridge clearances and routing depend on accurate height information.

4. Overall Width

Measure the widest point of the RV, including:

Fenders
Mirrors (if applicable)
Slide-out trim (when fully retracted)

Most RVs are approximately 8 to 8.5 feet wide, but oversized units require special planning.

5. Weight

Knowing the approximate weight helps determine the correct transport equipment.

If you don’t know the exact weight, provide the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) from the manufacturer’s label.

6. RV Type

Tell your transporter exactly what you’re shipping.

Examples include:

Class A Motorhome
Class B Camper Van
Class C Motorhome
Travel Trailer
Fifth Wheel
Pop-Up Camper
Toy Hauler
Teardrop Trailer
Destination Trailer
Truck Camper

Different RV types require different transport methods.

7. Is the RV Operable?

If it’s a motorhome, let your transporter know if it:

Starts and drives normally
Has mechanical issues
Has brake problems
Has steering issues
Has flat tires
Is non-running

If it’s a towable RV, confirm whether it can be safely towed and if the tires, bearings, lights, and coupler are in good condition.

8. Retract All Slide-Outs

Before transport:

Fully retract all slide-outs.
Secure awnings.
Close roof vents.
Lock exterior compartments.
Remove loose accessories.

This reduces the risk of damage during transit.

9. Pickup and Delivery Locations

Provide complete addresses whenever possible.

Include information about:

Narrow streets
Low tree branches
Gated communities
Construction zones
Limited parking

If a large transport truck cannot safely access the location, an alternate meeting point may be required.

10. Photos of Your RV

Clear photos help verify:

Overall condition
Existing damage
Vehicle dimensions
Tire condition
Roof accessories

Photos also help carriers plan the safest loading method.

11. Keys and Documentation

Have the following ready:

Ignition keys (for motorhomes)
Trailer keys (if needed)
Registration (if requested)
Contact information for pickup and delivery

12. Planned Shipping Dates

Provide:

Earliest pickup date
Latest acceptable pickup date
Delivery deadline (if applicable)

Flexible scheduling often provides more transport options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many transport delays happen because customers forget to mention:

Roof-mounted accessories
Lift kits or suspension modifications
Oversized tires
Generator compartments
Rear-mounted bike racks
Spare tire carriers
Damaged axles
Non-working brakes
Flat tires
Broken hitch components

Providing these details in advance helps avoid delays and unexpected costs.

Why Accurate Information Matters

When your transport company has complete and accurate information, they can:

Provide a more accurate quote
Assign the correct carrier or trailer
Plan the safest route
Reduce pickup delays
Avoid oversized-load issues
Improve delivery efficiency

Trust MA1 USA Auto Transport LLC for Your RV Shipping

Whether you’re transporting a compact camper or a large Class A motorhome, MA1 USA Auto Transport LLC has the experience to coordinate safe and reliable RV transport across the United States.

Providing complete information from the start helps ensure your RV is transported safely, efficiently, and with the right equipment for the job.

Need an RV transport quote? Contact MA1 USA Auto Transport LLC today with your RV’s year, make, model, length, height, width, weight, and pickup/delivery locations, and our team will help you plan a smooth shipment.