How Much Does It Cost To Transport A Golf Cart: Your Price

The cost to ship a golf cart can vary greatly, typically ranging from $200 to over $2,000. This wide range depends on many things. These include how far the cart needs to go, its size, the type of trailer used, and how fast you need it moved. For a short trip, like less than 100 miles, you might pay $200 to $400. Moving a golf cart across the country, say from Florida to California, can cost $700 to $1,500 or more.

How Much Does It Cost To Transport A Golf Cart
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Grasping Golf Cart Shipping Rates

Getting a clear picture of golf cart shipping rates can seem tough at first. Many things play a part in the final price. Knowing these details helps you plan your budget better. It also helps you find the best deal.

The average golf cart transport price changes often. It depends on fuel costs, how busy carriers are, and the time of year. For example, during peak seasons, like spring or summer, prices might be higher. This is because more people are moving things.

Factors Affecting Golf Cart Shipping Cost

Many things add up to the final cost when you ship a golf cart. Knowing these factors helps you see why one quote might be higher or lower than another.

Distance Traveled

This is one of the biggest price makers. The longer the trip, the more it costs. Companies charge by the mile, but the price per mile often goes down for longer trips.

Short Distance (Under 200 miles): These trips usually cost more per mile. You might pay $2.00 to $3.50 per mile. This adds up to $200 to $700.
Medium Distance (200-1000 miles): The price per mile drops for these trips. Expect to pay $0.75 to $2.00 per mile. Total costs might be $400 to $1,500.
Long Distance (Over 1000 miles): These trips have the lowest price per mile, maybe $0.50 to $1.00. But the total cost can be high, from $700 to $2,000 or more.

Size and Weight of Your Cart

Golf carts come in different sizes and weights. A standard two-seater cart is smaller and lighter. A four-seater, six-seater, or utility golf cart is bigger and heavier. Bigger and heavier carts need more space on a truck. They also use more fuel to move. This means they cost more to ship.

Standard 2-Seater: These are the most common. They are often the cheapest to ship.
4-Seater or 6-Seater: These carts are longer and wider. They take up more room. Their shipping cost will be higher.
Utility Golf Cart: These carts are built for work. They can be very heavy and oddly shaped. This makes them more costly to deliver.

Type of Transport Selected

You have two main choices for moving your golf cart: open transport or enclosed transport. Each has its own costs and benefits.

Open Golf Cart Hauling Fees

Open transport is the most common and cheapest way to ship a golf cart. Your cart rides on an open trailer, just like a car hauler. It is exposed to the weather and road conditions.

Pros: It costs less. It is easy to find carriers.
Cons: Your cart is open to rain, dust, and road grime. It could get small chips or scratches.
Cost Range: Often 30% to 50% less than enclosed transport. For many trips, this means savings of a few hundred dollars.

Enclosed Golf Cart Transport Pricing

Enclosed transport means your golf cart is shipped inside a closed trailer. This protects it from all outside elements. It is like a private garage on wheels.

Pros: Maximum protection from weather, dirt, and road debris. Ideal for new, custom, or classic carts.
Cons: Costs more. Fewer carriers offer this service, so it might take longer to find one.
Cost Range: Can be 30% to 50% more than open transport. If open transport is $700, enclosed might be $1,000 to $1,200.

Time of Year and Urgency

When you ship your cart can change the price.

Peak Season: Spring and summer are busy for moving things. Prices might go up because demand is high. People move to new homes or take carts to vacation spots.
Off-Peak Season: Fall and winter might offer lower prices. Less demand means carriers might give better deals.
Urgent Shipping: If you need your cart moved very fast, you will pay more. Carriers might need to change their routes or use special services. This adds to the cost.

Pickup and Delivery Locations

Where your cart is picked up and dropped off also matters.

Major Cities vs. Rural Areas: Shipping to or from big cities is often cheaper. Carriers have more routes there. Rural areas might cost more. Roads might be harder to reach. Fewer trucks go there.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal:
- Door-to-Door: The carrier picks up your cart right from your home or business. They deliver it right to your chosen spot. This is very handy but might cost a bit more.
- Terminal-to-Terminal: You take your cart to a shipping terminal. You also pick it up at another terminal. This can save you money. But it means extra work for you. You need to get your cart to and from the terminals.

Condition of the Cart

Is your golf cart running? Can it drive onto the trailer itself? This affects the cost.

Operable Cart: If your cart runs and drives, it is easy to load. This keeps costs lower.
Inoperable Cart: If your cart does not run, it needs special tools to load it. A winch or forklift might be needed. This adds to the shipping price. Make sure to tell the carrier if your cart is not running.

Fuel Prices

Fuel prices change all the time. When fuel costs go up, so do shipping prices. Carriers often add a fuel surcharge to cover these costs. This is a small extra fee to deal with rising gas prices.

Insurance Coverage

Most shipping companies include basic cargo insurance. This covers your cart if it is damaged due to their fault. But this basic coverage might not be enough.

Extra Insurance: You can buy more insurance for higher value carts. This gives you peace of mind. It also adds a small amount to your overall cost. Always ask about the insurance options. Know what is covered before you ship.

Deep Dive into Specific Shipping Costs

Let’s look at how costs break down for different types of golf carts and travel distances.

Long Distance Golf Cart Shipping Cost

Shipping a golf cart across many states or the whole country is a long-distance move. These trips usually offer a lower price per mile. But the total cost will be higher because of the many miles.

For example, a trip from New York to Florida (around 1,200 miles) might cost $800 to $1,300 for open transport. An enclosed transport could be $1,200 to $1,800. The long distance golf cart shipping cost is often balanced by the lower rate per mile.

Interstate Golf Cart Moving Cost

Moving a golf cart across state lines is called interstate transport. This is often part of a long-distance move. The rules for shipping can differ by state. This might slightly affect the price. However, most carriers handle interstate moves daily. They are used to the rules.

The interstate golf cart moving cost is largely driven by the distance and the factors already discussed. You might find slightly higher costs when crossing many states. This is because of more paperwork or permits.

Electric Golf Cart Shipping Price

Electric golf carts are very common. They are shipped much like gas golf carts. There are a few small things to consider.

Battery Status: Carriers might ask you to make sure batteries are charged but not full. This is for safety. A dead battery means the cart won’t run. This could make it inoperable.
Weight: Some electric carts, especially those with larger battery packs, can be heavier than gas models. This extra weight might lead to a small increase in shipping cost. But usually, the electric golf cart shipping price is very similar to gas carts of the same size.

Utility Golf Cart Delivery Expense

Utility golf carts are often used for work. They can be bigger, heavier, and have special features. These features might include large beds, lift kits, or custom attachments.

Size and Weight: Their added size and weight mean they take up more space. They also need more effort to move. This raises the utility golf cart delivery expense.
Special Loading: If they are very large, they might need special trailers or loading equipment. This can add to the cost.
Pricing: Expect to pay more than for a standard two-seater golf cart. It could be 15% to 50% more.

Getting Golf Cart Transport Companies Quotes

The best way to know your exact shipping cost is to get quotes. You should contact several golf cart transport companies. This lets you compare prices and services.

How to Get Quotes

Gather Info: Have all your cart details ready.
- Make and model of your golf cart.
- Exact dimensions (length, width, height).
- Weight.
- If it is gas or electric.
- If it runs and drives.
- Exact pickup and delivery addresses.
- Your desired shipping date.
Use Online Marketplaces: Many websites let you post your shipping need. Then, multiple carriers bid on your job. This is a good way to compare many prices at once.
Contact Carriers Directly: You can also call or email specific golf cart transport companies. Ask them for a direct quote.
Be Clear and Honest: Give full and correct details. If you forget to say your cart has a lift kit, the price could change later.
Ask Questions:
- What is included in the price?
- What about insurance?
- What is the estimated pickup and delivery time?
- Do they offer door-to-door service?
- What is their cancellation policy?

Table: Sample Golf Cart Shipping Costs (Estimates)

This table gives rough estimates. Actual prices will vary based on current market rates and your specific details.

Distance (Miles)	Cart Type (Operable)	Transport Type	Estimated Cost Range	Notes
100-300	2-Seater Standard	Open	$200 – $450	Good for short trips.
100-300	2-Seater Standard	Enclosed	$300 – $600	Added protection.
301-700	2-Seater Standard	Open	$450 – $800	Common for regional moves.
301-700	4-Seater	Open	$550 – $950	Larger size adds to cost.
701-1500	2-Seater Standard	Open	$700 – $1,200	Lower per-mile rate.
701-1500	4-Seater	Enclosed	$1,100 – $1,800	Best for valuable carts.
1500+	2-Seater Standard	Open	$900 – $1,500	Cross-country, volume discount.
1500+	Utility Cart	Enclosed	$1,500 – $2,500+	Heavy, large, needs special handling.
Inoperable	Any	Any	Add $100 – $300	Requires special loading tools.

Remember, these are starting points. Always get a custom quote for your golf cart.

Ways to Save Money on Golf Cart Transport

Shipping a golf cart can be a big cost. Here are some tips to help you save money.

Be Flexible with Dates: If you can wait a bit, you might get a better deal. Carriers can fit your cart into an existing route. This saves them money, and they pass savings to you.
Choose Open Transport: If your cart is not a high-value classic, open transport is the most budget-friendly choice.
Ship During Off-Peak Times: If possible, ship in the fall or winter. Demand is lower.
Prepare Your Cart: Make sure your cart runs. If it does not, fix it. An inoperable cart costs more to load.
Remove Loose Items: Take off any extra gear, like bags or coolers. This makes the cart lighter and safer to ship.
Compare Many Quotes: Do not take the first price you get. Get at least 3-5 golf cart transport companies quotes. This helps you find the best value.
Ask About Discounts: Some companies offer deals for return customers or certain groups. It never hurts to ask.

Readying Your Golf Cart for Shipping

Proper preparation helps your cart arrive safely. It also helps avoid extra fees.

Clean Your Cart: Wash your golf cart. This helps you see any existing dents or scratches. Take pictures of your cart from all sides before shipping. This is proof of its condition.
Remove Loose Items: Take out anything that can fall off or move around. This includes golf clubs, bags, seats, and cup holders. Store them safely yourself.
Check Fluid Levels (Gas Carts): For gas carts, reduce the fuel to about a quarter tank. This is for safety reasons. Check oil and other fluids.
Check Battery (Electric Carts): For electric carts, make sure the battery is charged but not full. A 50-75% charge is often best. Disconnect the main battery if the carrier asks.
Tire Pressure: Check tire pressure. Make sure tires are properly inflated. This makes loading and unloading easier.
Secure All Parts: Make sure anything that can open is shut tight. This includes doors, windshields, and storage compartments. Use tape if needed.
Key and Documents: Give the keys to the driver. Keep a spare set. Have your paperwork ready for the driver. This might include proof of ownership.
Note Special Instructions: Tell the carrier about any special features. Let them know if your cart has a lift kit or is unusually wide.

Why Use a Professional Golf Cart Transport Service?

You might think about pulling your golf cart yourself. But using a pro service has many perks.

Safety: Professional transporters have the right tools and experience. They know how to secure your cart safely.
Insurance: They carry insurance to protect your cart. If you tow it yourself, your regular auto insurance might not cover damage.
Time-Saving: Shipping a cart takes time and effort. A professional service handles all the details. This frees up your time.
Less Stress: You do not have to worry about finding the right trailer, checking tire pressure, or dealing with long drives. The pros handle it all.
Expertise: They know the best routes and how to avoid issues. This means your cart arrives faster and safer.

Choosing the Right Golf Cart Transport Company

With so many golf cart transport companies out there, how do you pick the best one?

Check Reviews: Look at online reviews. See what past customers say about their service. Look for good marks for reliability, speed, and careful handling.
Verify Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the company is properly licensed. Ask to see proof of their insurance. This protects you if something goes wrong.
Get Detailed Quotes: Do not just look at the price. Look at what is included. Are there hidden fees? Is insurance part of the deal?
Ask About Experience: How long have they been shipping golf carts? Do they specialize in them?
Communication: How easy is it to reach them? Do they answer your questions clearly and fast? Good communication is key.
Tracking: Do they offer a way to track your cart during transit? This can give you peace of mind.

By taking these steps, you can find a trustworthy carrier. You can also make sure your golf cart arrives safely and on time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take to ship a golf cart?
A: Shipping time depends on the distance. Short trips (under 500 miles) might take 1-3 days. Longer trips (over 1,000 miles) can take 5-10 days. The time of year and route can also affect this.

Q: Can I put items inside my golf cart during shipping?
A: It is best not to. Most carriers do not allow personal items inside the cart. This is because they are not insured. Loose items can also shift and cause damage during transit. Remove all personal belongings.

Q: What if my golf cart is modified (lifted, custom wheels)?
A: Tell the shipping company about any changes. Lifted carts or those with wide wheels might need more space. This can affect the cost. Be clear about all changes when getting a quote.

Q: Is door-to-door shipping always possible?
A: In most cases, yes. But some areas might be hard for large trucks to reach. If this happens, the carrier might ask you to meet them at a safe, nearby location. This is usually a large parking lot.

Q: What is the best time of year to ship a golf cart to save money?
A: The off-peak seasons are generally best for saving money. These are late fall and winter (November to February). Demand for shipping is lower during these months. This can lead to better rates.

Q: What if my golf cart is not running?
A: You can still ship it. But you must tell the carrier it is inoperable. It will cost extra because they need special tools to load and unload it. Make sure the cart can roll and steer.

Q: How do I pay for golf cart transport?
A: Payment terms vary. Some companies ask for a deposit upfront. Others might ask for full payment at pickup or delivery. Many accept credit cards, bank transfers, or even checks. Always ask about payment options when getting a quote.

Q: What kind of insurance should I look for?
A: Look for a company that offers good cargo insurance. This covers damage that happens during transit. Make sure you know what is covered. Ask if you need to buy extra insurance for a high-value cart. Always read the insurance terms before you agree to shipping.

Q: Can I ship a golf cart internationally?
A: Yes, you can. But international shipping is more complex. It involves customs forms, duties, and different rules. The cost will be much higher than domestic shipping. You will also need to work with a company that specializes in international transport.

Final Thoughts on Golf Cart Shipping

Shipping a golf cart does not have to be a headache. By knowing the factors that affect the cost, you can plan well. Getting detailed quotes from reliable golf cart transport companies is key. Prepare your cart properly. Choose the right transport type for your needs.

With good planning, your golf cart will arrive safely at its new home. You can then get back to enjoying the game or your daily tasks with ease.