Shipping Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (EVs) in 2026: Everything You Need to Know

The Rise of Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Shipping

Electric and hybrid vehicles have transformed the auto industry offering clean energy, fuel efficiency and advanced technology. As more Americans invest in electric cars like Tesla, Rivian and Lucid, the need for professional EV auto transport continues to grow.

At US Car-Go Freight, we understand that shipping hybrid and electric vehicles requires special care, safety standards and up-to-date knowledge of EV regulations. Whether you are moving, selling your vehicle or purchasing an online vehicle our nationwide vehicle transport services will get your hybrid or EV to you safely and quickly.

The Growing Electric Vehicle Market in 2026

The electric vehicle industry has continued its upbeat pace. Currently, it is projected that by 2026 sales of EVs will make up over a quarter of total vehicle sales across the globe which shows that just how rapidly this technology is changing transportation. More charging stations are in development, technology for batteries improves, tax incentives exist & EV aren’t considered just luxury vehicles anymore but rather a mainstream option.

The growth trend indicates a greater demands on the services offered by trusted car shipping companies able to handle the special requirements for both electric and hybrid vehicles.

What Distinguishes Hybrid Vehicles from Electric Vehicles?

Hybrid electric vehicles utilizes both battery electricity as well as gasoline propulsion. Two of the best selling examples of HEVs include the Toyota Prius and Honda Accord hybrid.
All electric vehicles such as the Tesla Model 3 operate on batteries & don’t require conventional gasoline. Most EVs are powered by lithium polymer or lithium-ion batteries.

These vehicles weigh more than conventional cars since they contain a battery system. Accordingly, EV car shipping slightly differs in its processing and price.

Is It Safe to Ship an Electric or Hybrid Car?

Yes, shipping electric vehicles is safe if the work is handled by professionals. Reputable auto transporters like US Car-Go Freight follow all federal safety standards for shipping of EVs and know how to handle high-voltage batteries.

The key factor is battery charge level. Experts recommend keeping an EV battery between 45% to 65% charged at the time of transportation. This ensures it has enough power needed during loading or unloading and no overheating or overcharging issues occur during transport.

How Much Is The Cost to Ship a Hybrid or Electric Vehicle?

The cost of shipping a hybrid or EV car depends on several factors:

The type, size, and weight of the vehicle. Most EVs are heavier.
Distance and transport route
Time of year and demand
Enclosed vs open carrier

For Example: An electric SUV such as the Ford F-150 Lightning will weigh nearly 1,500 lbs heavier than the gas version, so the overall shipping cost will be affected.

At US Car-Go Freight, we give you transparent pricing and quotes instantly to ensure you get a fair price and competitive rate on your EV price.

How Hybrid and EV Shipping Works

The shipping of an electric or hybrid vehicle is similar to any other car but a few proximity precautions should be taken for safety:

Vehicle inspection: Take pictures of any existing dents/scratches before pick-up.
Battery check: Charge the vehicle between 45-65% charge.
Secure transport: Vehicles are loaded carefully on a transport carrier designed for weight balance.
Nationwide delivery: Whether interstate or out-of-state your EV will be delivered to your chosen location.

US Car-Go Freight ensures door-to-door vehicle delivery eliminating the need to terminal dropoff your vehicle.

Common Myths About EV Shipping

Myth 1: EVs are riskier to ship than gas vehicles.
Fact: EV shipping is just as safe when managed by certified auto transporters.

Myth 2: Only specialized carriers can move EVs.
Fact: Standard carriers can ship EVs safely & within established safety protocols.

Myth 3: Batteries need to be charged fully before shipping.
Fact: A partial charge of 45%–65% is the ideal percentage to avoid overheating and allow easy loading.

Preparing Your Hybrid or Electric Car for Shipping

Here is how to prepare your vehicle for pick-up:

Wash the car and carefully check for pre-existing damage.
Remove personal items & chargers.
Deactivate toll passes or parking tags.
Keep one set of keys ready for the driver.
Make sure that your battery charge level is within recommended range.

The Future of Electric Vehicle Shipping

As the technology of the electric vehicle continues to evolve, so does the auto transport industry. Companies like US Car-Go Freight lead the pack with modernized carrier fleets, streamlined logistics and eco-friendly practices that support the clean energy transition.

Shipping an electric or hybrid vehicle today means working with experts who understand the balance between technology & transport safety ensuring every delivered vehicle is the outcome achieved.

FAQs

Q1: How much does it cost to ship an electric vehicle?

Pricing depends on distance, route and the size of the vehicle. Overall, electric cars are a bit more expensive to ship due to the battery weight.

Q2: Is it safe to transport hybrid and electric vehicles?

Absolutely! With the proper equipment & trained shipping professionals EV shipping is totally safe.

Q3: Do I need to disconnect the battery before shipping?

No. Just keep it between 45% to 65% charged no disconnection required.

Q4: Can electric vehicles be shipped nationwide?

Yes. US Car-Go Freight offers nationwide electric vehicle shipping services across all US states.

Q5: Are there special permits for EV car shipping?

Not usually only the batteries themselves have shipping regulations under DOT safety standards.

Ready to Ship Your Electric or Hybrid Vehicle?

Trust US Car-Go Freight a nationwide EV shipping company, understands the unique needs of the modern vehicle.

Get your free EV & hybrid vehicle shipping quote today and experience safe, efficient & transparent cross-country vehicle transport across the US.