What’s the Difference Between Interstate Transporting a Caravan and a Campervan?

Transporting a caravan or a campervan interstate in Australia requires careful planning to ensure safety, compliance with regulations, and cost-effectiveness. While both are recreational vehicles (RVs), they have significant differences that impact transportation logistics, costs, and methods.

Understanding these differences can help caravan and campervan owners make informed decisions when moving their vehicles across states.

This article explores the key differences between interstate transport for caravans and campervans, including transportation methods, costs, legal considerations, and preparation tips.

Caravan vs. Campervan: The Key Differences

Before diving into transport details, it’s important to understand what differentiates these camping adventure vehicles.

Caravan

• A caravan is a towable vehicle without its own engine. It must be hitched to a tow vehicle, such as a ute or SUV, to be moved.
• Typically, caravans are larger than campervans, offering more living space, multiple rooms, and advanced amenities.
• Because they lack an engine, they are lighter in maintenance but require proper towing setup and equipment.

Campervan

• A campervan is a self-propelled vehicle, meaning it has its own engine and can be driven like a standard car.
• Smaller than a caravan, campervans usually have basic amenities like a bed, kitchenette, and storage but lack the spaciousness of a caravan.
• Since it is a registered vehicle, it must comply with vehicle registration and roadworthiness requirements in the state it is transported to.

Interstate Transport Methods: Caravan vs. Campervan

Transporting a caravan interstate is quite different from moving a campervan. The method of transportation affects the overall cost, time, and effort involved.

How Are Caravans Transported Interstate?

Since caravans do not have engines, they require a towing vehicle or a specialised transport service. The main methods of moving a caravan interstate include:

1. Self-Towing
   • If you have a suitable tow vehicle, you can tow the caravan yourself across state lines.
   • This method is cost-effective but requires experience in towing heavy loads, knowledge of towing laws, and careful route planning.
2. Hiring a Professional Towing Service
   • Professional towing companies use heavy-duty tow vehicles to transport caravans safely.
   • This is a great option for owners who do not have a towing vehicle or prefer to avoid long-distance driving.
3. Flatbed or Tilt Tray Truck Transport
   • For long-distance transport, companies use flatbed trucks or tilt trays to carry the caravan instead of towing it.
   • This option provides extra protection against road damage and wear but is more expensive.
4. Rail Transport
   • Some freight services allow caravans to be transported by rail, reducing wear and tear.
   • However, availability depends on the rail freight services in specific regions.

How Are Campervans Transported Interstate?

Campervans are fully operational vehicles, so their transportation options differ from caravans.

1. Driving It Yourself
   • The simplest and most cost-effective method is driving the campervan yourself.
   • This allows for flexible travel plans and the ability to make stops along the way.
2. Hiring a Professional Driver
   • If you’re unable to drive, you can hire a professional relocation driver to transport the campervan.
   • This option is faster than freight transport but depends on driver availability.
3. Car Carrier Transport
   • A common method is using a car carrier truck, where the campervan is securely placed on a multi-vehicle transport truck.
   • This protects the campervan from excessive mileage and road risks but can be expensive.
4. Rail Transport
   • Similar to caravans, some rail services accommodate campervans.
   • This is often a viable option for long-distance relocations.

Cost Comparison: Caravan vs. Campervan Transport

The cost of interstate transport varies based on distance, vehicle size, weight, and method of transportation.

Factor	Caravan Transport Cost	Campervan Transport Cost
Self-Transport	Fuel + tolls	Fuel + tolls
Professional Tow/Driver	$2–$5 per km	$1.50–$3 per km
Flatbed/Car Carrier	$500–$3,000+	$800–$4,000+
Rail Transport	Varies by provider	Varies by provider

Cost Factors

• Distance: Longer distances mean higher costs.
• Vehicle Size & Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to transport.
• Urgency: Express transport services are more expensive than standard delivery times.
• Insurance: Some transport services include insurance, while others require additional coverage.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Regardless of whether you’re transporting a caravan or campervan, legal requirements must be met.

For Caravans

• Ensure the caravan is roadworthy if being towed.
• Check towing regulations, including weight limits and licensing requirements.
• If using a transport company, verify licensing and insurance coverage.

For Campervans

• The campervan must be registered and insured if being driven.
• Roadworthy certificates may be required in some states.
• Transport services may have restrictions on fuel levels and personal belongings inside the vehicle.

Preparation Tips for Transporting a Caravan or Campervan Interstate

To ensure smooth transportation, follow these preparation steps:

Caravan Preparation

✔ Secure all interior items to prevent movement.
✔ Remove gas bottles and disconnect power sources.
✔ Check tyres, brakes, and hitching points.
✔ Lock doors, windows, and compartments.
✔ Ensure the transport company provides insurance coverage.

Campervan Preparation

✔ Perform a vehicle inspection to check for leaks, tyre wear, and mechanical issues.
✔ Remove personal items if using a transport service.
✔ Check fuel restrictions (some transporters require the tank to be less than half full).
✔ Lock all doors and remove valuables.
✔ Ensure insurance covers transport-related damages.

Choosing the Right Transport Option

When deciding between different transport methods, consider the following:

• Budget: Self-driving is the cheapest option, while professional transport services offer convenience.
• Time: If you need quick transport, a professional driver or car carrier is best.
• Vehicle Condition: If the caravan or campervan is not roadworthy, it must be transported via truck or rail.
• Distance: For long distances, flatbed transport or rail freight may be more practical.

Conclusion

Transporting a caravan and a campervan interstate involves different processes, costs, and legal requirements. While a caravan must be towed or transported via truck or rail, a campervan can be driven or loaded onto a car carrier. Each method has its advantages, and the best option depends on budget, urgency, and vehicle condition.

When deciding on the best transportation method, choosing Interstate Towing AU for your campervan transportation needs can be a practical solution, especially if your campervan is not in driving condition or you want to avoid adding extra mileage. Professional towing services ensure safe and efficient transport while adhering to legal requirements.

By planning ahead, securing insurance, and choosing the right transport service, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free interstate move for your caravan or campervan.