Modified car

Can You Ship a Modified Car? What You Need to Know

Introduction

In the world of car enthusiasts, modifying a vehicle is not just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. Whether it’s a lifted truck, lowered sports car, custom rims, or a full-body kit, these upgrades enhance performance, style, and personal satisfaction. But when it comes time to relocate or sell your vehicle, one crucial question arises: Can Ship a Modified Car safely? The answer is yes—but only if done right.

This blog will cover everything you need to know about modified car shipping, including what makes shipping different, why it matters, how to do it right, and where to find a trusted shipping partner.

Modified sports car with body kit being loaded onto an enclosed car transport trailer using custom ramps.
Loading a modified car with precision: Enclosed carriers protect custom builds during transport.

What is a Modified Car in Terms of Shipping?

From a logistics standpoint, a modified car is any vehicle that has been altered from its factory specifications. These modifications can include:

  • Suspension lifts or drops
  • Wider or oversized tires
  • Aftermarket spoilers or body kits
  • Performance engine upgrades that impact handling
  • Custom exhausts or low-hanging modifications

These changes affect the dimensions, ground clearance, and handling of your car—which in turn influences how it can be loaded, secured, and transported.

Why Shipping a Modified Vehicle is More Complex

Unlike standard cars, modified vehicles often require special attention due to their unique structure. If not handled properly, they are at a higher risk of:

  • Ground clearance damage
  • Scraping during loading and unloading
  • Tire or fender damage on enclosed trailers
  • Insurance issues if not declared beforehand

Cost of Damage Due to Improper Shipping

Type of ModificationPotential DamageEstimated Repair Cost
Lowered SuspensionUndercarriage scraping$500 – $1,500
Wide Body KitsCracked side skirts / bumpers$800 – $2,000
Lifted TrucksRoof / clearance damage$1,000 – $3,500
Aftermarket WheelsScratched or bent rims$400 – $1,200

These risks can be avoided entirely by working with a transport company that specializes in handling custom or modified vehicles.

How to Ship a Modified Car the Right Way

  1. Choose the Right Type of Carrier
    Enclosed carriers are often the safest option for modified cars. They provide protection from weather, debris, and unexpected road hazards.
  2. Provide Accurate Vehicle Specs
    When booking, always share full details: ride height, length, tire width, and any special features. This allows the carrier to plan the loading and strapping process.
  3. Use Custom Loading Ramps
    For low-profile vehicles, request the use of extended or hydraulic ramps to prevent scraping.
  4. Inspect and Document
    Take high-resolution photos of your vehicle before shipping, especially around the modified areas. Ensure the driver does the same on pickup.
  5. Secure Specialized Insurance
    Confirm the carrier’s insurance covers aftermarket parts, or consider purchasing supplemental insurance for added peace of mind.

Where to Ship Your Modified Car: Choose Experience Over Cheap Rates

Modified car shipping is not a job for general freight movers. It requires expertise, experience, and attention to detail. Minute By Minute Logistics offers specialized auto transport for custom vehicles, providing:

  • Professional enclosed transport options
  • Trained handlers familiar with lowered and lifted vehicles
  • Fully insured shipments with tracking and updates
  • Pickup and delivery anywhere in the U.S.

Visit our visit today to get an instant quote and begin your safe transport today.

For more on what to avoid and how to prepare your vehicle, check our blog: Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping Your Car.

Conclusion

Shipping a modified vehicle doesn’t have to be risky or stressful. With the right planning, proper documentation, and a trusted transport partner, your custom ride will arrive just the way it left—flawless. Let the experts at Minute By Minute Logistics handle your investment with care. Because every modification tells a story, and we’ll make sure it arrives safely at its next chapter.


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