What Type of Car Hauler Works for You?
Once you have a business plan, you will need to figure out the equipment you will need.
Do you want to move a large volume of vehicles? Are you looking to transport smaller numbers of specialized vehicles? Does this equipment also include technology for booking, documentation, invoicing, and security?
Let’s dive in a bit deeper and break apart some of these choices:
Types of Car Haulers
Open Car Haulers: Single-Vehicle Hotshot Trailers: Hotshot car-hauling, or Hotshot auto transport, is a transport method of vehicle shipping utilizing smaller, more flexible trucks for faster delivery. This method caters to time-sensitive or single-car transport. Hotshot Transport balances efficiency, cost, and
dependability for customers wanting quick vehicle transport. The initial investment is smaller, and the operational costs are less. Hot Shot Transport does not require a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and fewer regulations exist than a full-sized auto hauler.
Multi-Level, Multi-Vehicle Truck, and Trailers: Full-sized auto haulers are the most common type of trailer in the hauling industry and can transport up to 10 vehicles at once, making them highly efficient for long-distance hauls or delivering multiple cars in one trip. This high capacity can reduce the cost per
vehicle when transporting in bulk, making it a more profitable option for large loads. These trucks and trailers make them more suitable for large clients and higher volumes. This volume expands your revenue and your potential client base.
Single-Level Enclosed Trailers: These car haulers typically carry 1-3 vehicles and offer protection from the elements during transport. Enclosed car haulers can be an excellent niche for luxury vehicles or vintage cars where the condition is crucial. Like Hotshot Trailers, enclosed car haulers have lower fuel costs and fewer regulatory requirements. These smaller trailers can easily maneuver in and out of neighborhoods, making them more versatile for pick-ups and deliveries.
Multi-Level Enclosed Trailers: Multi-level Enclosed Auto Haulers provide complete protection from rain, snow, hail, dust, and other environmental factors that could damage vehicles on a larger scale. This protection makes them the preferred option for transporting luxury, classic, or exotic cars from high-end dealerships, auto shows, or collectors. Enclosed trailers offer additional security from theft or vandalism, especially when transporting high-value vehicles. The cost of purchasing an enclosed multi-level hauler is significantly higher than that of open haulers. The enclosed structure, additional materials, and potential features such as climate control add to the cost, making it a significant investment.
Once you’ve chosen a hauler type, your job isn’t finished. Integrating technology is crucial to efficiently managing your car hauling business.
Technology Needs
- Tracking Systems: GPS tracking allows you to monitor the location of your vehicles in
real-time, enhancing security and operational efficiency. Our Picks: Sansara and Fleet
Complete - Security Systems: Implement security cameras and alarm systems on trailers to protect
against theft or damage. Our Picks: Samsara and Lytx DriveCam. - Online Booking Platforms: Use software that enables customers to book services
online easily, improving accessibility and customer satisfaction. Ship.Cars and Central
Dispatch - Invoicing Software: Automated invoicing processes to reduce errors and streamline
financial operations. Your booking system can integrate seamlessly with your
transactions. Our Picks: Super Dispatch and Invoice2go. - Documentation Management: Digital document management systems help efficiently
organize contracts, permits, and other essential paperwork. Our Picks: Super Dispatch
and Truck Logic - Communication Platforms: Utilize platforms facilitating communication between
drivers, dispatchers, and customers. This communication could include mobile apps or
software solutions like Axon Software, which offers features tailored to auto transport
businesses. Our Picks: Super Dispatch and Keep Truckin (now called Motive)
By carefully selecting the right equipment and technology, you can set up a car-hauling business
that is not just efficient but also responsive to market demands.
Previous: How to Start a Car-Hauling Business (Part 1)
Next: Licenses, insurance, and compliance (Part 3)
