Recreational vehicles are a big investment, and many owners rely on them for long summer trips, winters in warmer places, or full-time living on the road. Sooner or later, most owners need to move an RV a long way. They may be relocating, selling to a buyer in another province, bringing a unit home from a dealer, or heading south for the winter. Driving thousands of kilometres in a large vehicle is not always practical, so shipping becomes worth considering.
This guide explains how RV and motorhome transport works in Canada, what the main options are, and how to prepare your unit for the road.
Why Owners Ship Instead of Driving
Time is the biggest reason. A cross-country drive in a motorhome can take a week or more once you add fuel stops, campground bookings, and rest days. For someone starting a new job or settling into a new home, that time is hard to spare.
Cost and wear matter as well. Fuel for a large RV adds up quickly, and long trips put miles on the engine, tires, and brakes. Owners selling a unit to a buyer in another province often prefer to ship it so the mileage stays low. Others do not feel comfortable towing a large trailer through mountain passes or in winter weather, and shipping removes that risk.
Driveaway or Hauled
There are two main ways to move a motorhome. In a driveaway, a professional driver operates the RV on its own wheels from pickup to delivery. This works well for a motorhome in good mechanical condition and keeps costs manageable. The driver adds mileage, which is something to discuss up front if you care about resale value.
The second option is to load the unit on a flatbed or specialized trailer. This keeps the mileage off the odometer and protects the RV from road wear, though it needs the right equipment and usually costs more. It is also a good choice for older units, vehicles with mechanical concerns, or very high-value motorhomes.
Motorhomes by Class
The type of RV affects how it can be moved. Class A motorhomes are the largest, built on a bus-style chassis, and often weigh a great deal. They usually go as driveaways or on heavy-duty carriers. Class B camper vans are smaller and closer to a large van, so they are easier to move and often travel like any other vehicle. Class C motorhomes fall in the middle, built on a truck or van frame with a sleeping area over the cab.
Before getting a quote, know the exact length, height, width, and weight of your unit, including any modifications such as roof racks, solar panels, or bike carriers. These details affect equipment, route planning, and whether permits are needed.
Fifth Wheels and Travel Trailers
Towed units are a little different. A travel trailer or fifth wheel needs a tow vehicle, so the shipper either hitches it to their own truck or loads it onto a carrier. Trailers must be in good shape, with working lights, brakes, tires, and a secure hitch connection. A trailer with worn tires or faulty brakes can be refused until the problem is fixed.
Some owners ship their truck and trailer together, which keeps the whole setup in one place. Others ship the trailer alone and use a different vehicle at the destination. Tell the shipper which situation applies so they can plan equipment accordingly.
Preparing Your RV
An RV has many moving parts, and preparation matters more than with a standard car. Treat the move like a long trip on rough roads, where anything loose can shift or break.
- Retract slide-outs and awnings, and lock them in place.
- Empty the fresh water, grey water, and black water tanks.
- Secure or remove loose items inside, including dishes, electronics, and decor.
- Latch cabinets, drawers, and the refrigerator door.
- Turn off and disconnect propane, and make sure the tanks are closed.
- Check tire pressure, lights, and the condition of the roof and seals.
- Photograph the interior and exterior before pickup.
Remove valuables and personal belongings, since shippers are generally not responsible for items left inside. Keep the fuel at about a quarter tank unless asked otherwise.
What Affects the Cost
RV transport is priced by distance, size, weight, and the method chosen. Larger units cost more to move than smaller ones, and a haul on a flatbed usually costs more than a driveaway. Timing also matters, since demand rises in spring and fall.
Other factors include pickup and delivery locations, whether your unit is easy to reach, and any special equipment needed to load it. Accurate measurements and honest descriptions of the unit’s condition help avoid changes after the quote.
Seasonal Patterns
RV shipping follows the seasons. In spring, owners bring units to campgrounds and lakeside properties, and dealers move inventory in preparation for the camping season. In fall, snowbirds ship their RVs south for the winter, and owners send units to storage. Booking early in these periods gives the most flexibility.
Cross-border moves add another layer, since customs paperwork and border timing come into play. Planning extra time for these steps keeps the trip smooth.
Popular Routes
Many RV shipments run from Ontario to the western provinces, where owners relocate or buy units from large western dealers. Toronto to Vancouver car shipping follows the main highway used for these long hauls. Alberta is another major destination, with the Calgary area serving as a base for trips into the Rockies. Calgary car shipping is a common starting point for owners heading to British Columbia or south into the United States.
Choosing a Shipper
Ask whether the company regularly handles RVs and whether it has the equipment for your type of unit. Confirm how it will protect the vehicle, what insurance applies during transit, and how it handles delays. A company that works with larger vehicles will usually ask detailed questions up front, which is a good sign. RV and motorhome shipping is a specialized service, so look for experience rather than only a low price.
Arriving Ready for the Road
Moving an RV is a bigger job than moving a car, but it is manageable with good preparation. Know your dimensions, choose the method that suits your unit, secure everything inside, and plan around the season. With those steps in place, your RV arrives ready for the next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship an RV across Canada?
Yes. Motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers are shipped across the country. The method depends on the type and size of the unit.
What is the difference between a driveaway and a hauled RV?
In a driveaway, a driver operates the RV on its own wheels. In a hauled move, the unit is loaded onto a trailer or flatbed, which avoids adding mileage but usually costs more.
Do I need to empty the tanks before shipping?
Yes. Empty the fresh, grey, and black water tanks and turn off the propane. This reduces weight and prevents leaks or safety issues.
Can I leave belongings inside my RV?
Generally no. Remove valuables and loose items, and secure whatever must stay, like cabinets and appliances. Shippers are usually not responsible for personal property left inside.
When should I book RV transport?
Book several weeks ahead, especially in spring and fall when demand is highest. Early booking gives you more choice of dates and equipment.
