Electric vehicles bring fresh hurdles for logistics firms

Automobiles are transported from manufacturers to car retailers, and occasionally directly to consumers. Additionally, they are sent to racecourses, service centers, evaluation labs, and between different dealership locations. The sector responsible for transporting vehicles constitutes a $10.1 billion market within the United States each year, as reported by IBISWorld data.

Transporting electric vehicles introduces new difficulties for the sector. "Transferring an EV is somewhat like moving a conventional gasoline car, yet there are several important factors to consider. Initially, EVs tend to weigh more due to their battery systems, which might necessitate specialized gear or result in increased costs with carriers. In the U.S., rules dictate the maximum load capacity allowed on a carrier’s trailer, and the added weight of EVs could reduce the quantity of additional vehicles transported during one journey," explained Nathan Reid, CEO of uShip Logistics. .

uShip Logistics is part of uShip, which operates as the global leader in online freight marketplaces.

Electric cars made up 7.5% of total new vehicle sales during the first quarter of 2025, an increase from 7% in 2024.

As an increasing number of electric vehicles become available, the secondary EV market is gaining momentum. According to a July report from Recurrent, used EVs are being sold rapidly, with their prices remaining stable.

Some companies are delivering brand-new electric vehicles, while others are sending used electric vehicles for the first time, and some are transporting their battery-operated cars rather than driving them during house moves.

That's a combination," Reid explained. "A lot of individuals transporting electric vehicles are in the process of relocating and wish to prevent driving their cars nationwide. Additionally, we're noticing an increasing amount of people purchasing and reselling electric vehicles online, particularly as more pre-owned options become available.

Furthermore, we work with dealers who utilize our services to transport stock between different sites or directly to consumers. Also, an increasing number of temporary residents are using our platform to ship their electric vehicles between their winter and summer residences, helping them reduce vehicle mileage or damage.

Transporting an electric vehicle involves certain specific factors that owners should keep in mind. "Individuals who are shipping an EV should also ensure the battery is at a secure charge level (typically between 20-30 percent) prior to collection. Although extended charging during transport is generally not required, it’s important for carriers to know about this in case planning is needed," Reid mentioned.

From the perspective of shipping companies, additional difficulties arise. "Electric vehicle batteries are categorized as dangerous goods, which means transporters must adhere to particular protocols, particularly when moving them over extended distances or across borders. For instance, staff must receive training on battery security, and in some cases, specialized tools may be required in response to heat-related issues," Reid explained.

Reid's business is proactively adjusting to the growing electric vehicle delivery sector by strengthening relationships with seasoned EV carriers, an effort aimed at building trust among shippers and ensuring safe transportation.

"Our tools are being enhanced to make it simpler for shippers to locate carriers with experience in electric vehicles. Additionally, we are developing informative materials to assist both shippers and carriers in understanding the distinctions involved in transporting electric vehicles," Reid stated.

"Looking ahead, we are exploring collaborations with electric vehicle marketplaces and dealers to integrate shipping into the purchase experience. Our aim is to become the go-to option for individuals needing to transport an EV," he stated.

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