Tips for Safely Transporting Your Caravan Interstate

5 min read

Note: This is a general approach and each carrier and service company handle things differently.

Moving a caravan across state lines doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning, the right paperwork, and a reputable carrier, you can keep things safe, compliant, and hassle-free. Below are practical, Australia-specific tips to help you prepare, choose the right transport option, and sail through pickup and delivery day.

Decide on the transport method (and be realistic)

Towing your own van can seem cost-effective, but long distances, fatigue, and compliance requirements quickly add risk. A professional transporter removes the pressure and manages routing, timing, and permits. If you’d like a hand comparing options (door-to-door vs depot, tow vs tilt-tray), see our interstate caravan transport services for what’s available and how it works.

Measure carefully and check size rules

Before you book, measure overall length, width, and height including air-cons, bike racks, antennas and awnings. Carriers plan equipment and routes around your dimensions, and they may need to assess if your caravan is within general access limits or requires an Oversize/Overmass (OSOM) permit under state or NHVR frameworks. Rules vary by jurisdiction (e.g., some WA routes allow higher clearances), so accurate dimensions up front avoid re-quotes, delays, or non-compliance.

Quick tip: If your caravan is near standard limits, share photos and measurements with your booking. It helps the carrier allocate the right truck and secure any approvals early.

Prepare the caravan like a pro

A tidy, secure caravan travels better and speeds up loading. Aim to:

• Clean inside and out so any existing marks are easy to identify.
  
• Secure or remove loose items (microwaves, TVs, shelves, décor, personal effects). Internal movement can cause damage and personal belongings generally aren’t covered by vehicle freight insurance. See our note on packing rules here: Can I pack the vehicle with personal items?
  
• Shut and lock cupboards, drawers, doors and windows; tape where needed.
  
• Turn off and disconnect gas bottles (valves closed and lines capped), and isolate batteries where required by the carrier.
  
• Drain water tanks and empty grey/black water systems to reduce weight and leakage risk.
  
• Check tyres, handbrake and lights if the van will be towed; advise the carrier if it’s non-rolling so they can plan for winching or tilt-tray loading.
  

Sort insurance and documents

Reputable transporters carry Transit or Carriers Liability Insurance that covers the caravan while it’s in their care. It’s sensible to:

• Ask for a Certificate of Currency and clarify inclusions/exclusions.
• Confirm the claims process (timeframes, evidence required, any excess).
• Keep proof of ownership/ID handy and nominate a receiver if someone else will accept delivery.
  

For timing expectations across common routes, this FAQ is handy: How long does it take to move a car? (applies broadly to vans and trailers too).

Know what to expect on pickup day

Have the caravan accessible, with clear truck access and space to manoeuvre. Walk around the van with the driver, note condition, and take your own time-stamped photos (sides, corners, roof, drawbar). Hand over keys/locking tools and any special instructions (low clearance, soft floor, unique tie-down points). If you won’t be there, nominate an authorised contact in writing.

Delivery day: inspect first, sign second

On arrival, inspect the caravan before signing off, check corners, seals, windows, roof hardware, lights, and undercarriage. If you spot an issue, note it on the delivery paperwork and take photos. Then contact the transporter’s support team to start next steps. Clear, prompt reporting makes claims smoother.

Be upfront about special requirements

Non-rolling vans, extra-long drawbars, boat-racks, or custom fit-outs can need winches, cribbing, or specific trucks. Tell your provider early special gear adds time and cost, but it also prevents aborted pickups. If you’re unsure, send photos and measurements when yourequest a quote so we can match the right carrier.

Choose the service level that suits

• Depot-to-depot is often the most economical and can be faster on popular corridors.
• Door-to-door adds convenience in metro areas or if getting to a depot is tricky.
• Enclosed or specialty transport may be recommended for high-value or delicate vans, or where weather protection and dust control matter.

If your move involves tow vehicle, trailer, or additional toys (boat or jet ski), we can bundle options, see interstate trailer transport services.

Keep comms clear and flexible

Seasonal peaks (summer holidays, EOFY) and long hauls can affect truck availability. Book early, keep your phone handy on pickup/delivery day, and allow a window for scheduling. If plans change, new address, access constraints, date shift, let us know quickly so we can adjust routing.

Key takeaways

• Measure and disclose everything (including attachments) to ensure compliance and accurate pricing.
• Prepare and secure the van: clean, empty, gas off, tanks drained, fixtures locked.
• Confirm insurance and process; inspect at pickup and delivery with photos.
• Pick the right service level and communicate changes early to avoid delays.
  

Ready to move your caravan?

National Car Movers connects you with vetted, fully insured Australian carriers and keeps you updated from booking to delivery. Get transparent pricing and the right setup for your caravan, route, and timeline.

Get an instant quote or contact us to chat with our local team.