At a Glance: In this article, you’ll learn the differences between a tow dolly and auto transport for moving your car. We highlight key features, pros, and cons for each method — and, of course, we cover how much they cost (the full answer might surprise you)! This will help you make an informed decision on which is right for you.
Sometimes, you need to move your car without driving it. Maybe you’re moving, maybe it’s broken down, or maybe you need your car shipped from the dealership to your home. This can be especially difficult over long distances, where the cost and risks add up. So, how can you move your car from point A to point B without a driver? The two most popular options are:
- renting a tow dolly
- hiring an auto transport (like Convoy Car Shipping)
In this guide, we’ll discuss the key differences between a tow dolly and auto transport. We’ll also cover how to decide which one is right for you.
Tow Dolly vs. Auto Transport: Learn Your Options
What Is a Towing Dolly?
A tow (or towing dolly) is a two-wheeled towing device that lets you tow your vehicle with the front wheels strapped onto the dolly and the rear wheels on the ground.
It’s a lightweight towing option that makes hauling your vehicle relatively easy behind a moving van or your own tow vehicle. Thanks to its simple design, the tow dolly is adaptable to many circumstances, and it makes loading and unloading cars quick — at least with a little practice.
That ease and simplicity also make it a cheaper option, especially if you already have a second vehicle for towing.
The major catch is that tow dollies are designed for front-wheel-drive vehicles, which is essential because they use the free movement of the rear wheels to roll along. Size is also a factor. The vehicle you use to tow the car must weigh at least 750 lbs (about 340 kg) more than the car you are towing.
To decide if using a towing dolly is right for you, you’ll want to think over several factors, including:
- weight of your vehicle
- front-to-rear distribution of the weight
- length and width
- ground clearance
If you’re hiring a towing dolly, they will let you know if the car you want to know is a good candidate.
What Is Auto Transport?
Auto transport (or car shipping) is a form of car relocation service where a car carrier collects your car from its current location, loads it on a car hauling trailer, and transports it to a final destination.
As you might imagine, there are many reasons that people prefer this method. For one, it is an extremely safe way to transport your vehicle. A professional will secure your car, keeping it out of danger from the elements of the open road.
Because transport can be covered by insurance, it takes the risk out of moving highly valuable vehicles. That makes it the perfect way to move:
- classic cars
- new cars
- luxury cars
Most owners don’t want to subject these kinds of vehicles to long distances on the highway. That’s because long-distance travel in these kinds of cars poses a significantly high chance of damage and excessive wear and tear, making auto transport the perfect option for moving them across the country or the world.
Auto transport is also a great way to move vehicles to locations that aren’t accessible by road. For instance, if you are traveling or moving to Hawaii, auto transport is the only way to take your car with you.
The major drawback of this option is cost, but though it costs more than a tow dolly, it provides superior safety and range. And if you don’t have a second vehicle to use the tow dolly yourself, the two options can sometimes come out about the same price.
Tow Dolly vs. Auto Transport: Quick Comparison Table
| Factor | Tow Dolly | Auto Transport (Open) | Auto Transport (Enclosed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $40-$60 per day (rental for personal use) Higher for a company to tow | $600-$1,000+ (depending on distance) | $1,000-$2,000+ (depending on distance) |
| Fuel Cost | Higher (due to added weight) | Included in service fee | Included in service fee |
| Vehicle Wear and Tear | Higher (rear wheels on the ground) | None | None |
| Suitability for All Vehicles | No (best for front-wheel drive) | Yes | Yes |
| Ease of Use | Moderate (requires setup) | High (handled by professionals) | High (handled by professionals) |
| Safety and Security | Lower (exposed to elements) | Moderate (open to elements) | High (protected from elements) |
| Insurance Coverage | Limited (varies by rental company) | Typically included | Typically included |
Tow Dolly vs. Auto Transport: Main Differences Explained
By highlighting the central differences between a tow dolly and auto transport, you can make a more confident decision for moving your car across town, state, country, or world.
How they work
- Tow Dolly
A tow dolly lifts only the front wheels of your car off the ground. This is towed behind a vehicle, for example, your own, a rented moving van, or a towing company’s.
- Auto Transport
An auto transport trailer, on the other hand, lifts your entire car off the ground. The open auto transport carrier loads your car onto the trailer and then transports it to your chosen final destination. Depending on the route, the car may be transferred to other transportation to take it over water.
Vehicle Compatibility
- Tow Dolly
Most front-wheel-drive vehicles are compatible with a tow dolly. A select few all-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive, and four-wheel-drive vehicles can also be moved using a tow dolly. However, tow dollies typically have weight restrictions, making them unsuitable for towing heavier vehicles. - Auto Transport
An auto transport trailer can transport vehicles of various shapes and sizes, from trucks and modified cars to small cars and even motorcycles. The carrier simply makes the necessary adjustments so it can accommodate your vehicle’s weight.For example, if a heavy vehicle is involved, the trailer transports fewer vehicles for that particular trip to stay within maximum weight limits.
Setup
- Tow Dolly
Hooking your car up to a tow dolly is not a simple process. It can be a bit complicated, especially if you’ve never done it before. The most important thing is to make sure the drive wheels are extra secure so there’s no risk of an accident.
If you’re towing a rear-wheel-drive car, the process is even more complex and potentially much more costly. For instance, you might have to remove the drive shafts because of front clearance issues. - Auto Transport
If you choose auto transport, minimal effort is required. The carrier will simply load and unload your car for you.
Wear and Tear of Your Vehicle
- Tow Dolly
When you tow a vehicle using a tow dolly, the rear wheels are on the ground. This puts additional weight on them as the dolly lifts the front wheels. Over time, there is wear and tear on the back tires.If your vehicle is low to the ground or long in the front, there might also be clearance issues. Parts of the car could get dragged while towing, causing damage to bumpers, undercarriage parts, and body kits.
- Auto Transport
With an auto transport car carrier, the entire vehicle is loaded onto the trailer. The risk of wear and tear on your tires is minimal, and there are zero clearance issues. This makes it the preferred method for high-value cars.
Cost of a Tow Dolly or Car Carrier
- Tow Dolly
Renting a tow dolly is usually the more affordable option. However, there are many additional and hidden costs you must bear in mind. You may, for example, have to rent a towing vehicle and pay additional fuel charges — especially if you don’t have a second, large vehicle to tow your car.
In addition, most moving companies won’t rent a tow dolly unless you’re also renting a truck from them. Let’s not forget as well that pulling another vehicle behind a truck significantly decreases gas mileage. You could rack up your fuel expenses because you’ll need more gas than usual to cover the same distance.
Finally, if you are towing your own vehicle using a tow dolly, it is exposed to the open air and often on the highway. Damage from debris or accidents will be your responsibility, making the tow dolly a bad option for many car owners.
- Auto Transport
Auto transport often costs more. This includes professional handling, covered transport, and usually insurance for the trip.
Safety
- Tow Dolly
One of the biggest issues with using a tow dolly is trailer sway. A fishtailing movement can occur when you’re driving at high speed. It’s one of the main causes of towing accidents and is particularly risky if your towing your car during bad weather. The roads become very slippery and make it even more difficult to control your vehicle.
If you are not used to using a tow dolly and you are planning on doing the driving, this risk increases substantially.
- Auto Transport
An auto transport trailer is far safer. The entire vehicle is loaded onto it, and the driver only has to control the vehicle they’re driving, so there’s less risk involved. These are also driven by trained professionals who have extensive experience.
Speed
- Tow Dolly
If you’re using a tow dolly, it’s recommended that you maintain a slower-than-average speed. This is for your own safety and to prevent trailer sway. If you’re driving slower, it’s going to increase your transit time.
- Auto Transport
While car shipping carriers also have to comply with speed restrictions, there’s no risk of trailer sway, so they can travel a little faster than a truck with a tow dolly.
Maneuverability
- Tow Dolly
Maneuvering a tow dolly can be quite challenging, especially when it comes to backing up. It can be done, but if you’ve never done it before, you might have a hard time backing up to set down the towed vehicle in the right place.If you don’t have experience backing up with a tow dolly, it is recommended that you practice before trying to maneuver on streets or parking lots with pedestrians and other vehicles around.
- Auto Transport
A car carrier doesn’t have the same maneuverability issues as a tow dolly. The trained drivers are well equipped to move their vehicle however they need.
The Pros and Cons of Towing With a Dolly Trailer
Pros
- Cheaper (usually)
- Great for short distances
- You’ll be with your car at all times
Cons
- Setting the dolly up can be time-consuming
- Decrease in gas mileage
- Safety concerns
- Risk of vehicle wear and tear
- Not suitable for heavier vehicles or those with low ground clearance
The Pros and Cons of Auto Transport
Pros
- Much safer
- Far less effort required
- Minimal risk of vehicle wear and tear
- Suitable for heavier vehicles
- No additional mileage on your car
- Perfect option for shipping a car to another state
- Only option for transporting over the ocean without road access
Cons
- Costs more (usually)
Tow Dolly vs. Auto Transport: Which Should You Choose?
Deciding between a tow dolly and auto transport ultimately depends on your needs and unique situation.
If your car is a good candidate for a tow dolly (like it has front-wheel drive and doesn’t exceed the weight limit), it can be a good idea. If you want to transport it over a short distance, it’s even better. For those renting a moving van already and are confident towing their vehicle, the tow dolly is also a great choice.
But for those who want to ship a car across state lines or across the country, an auto transport provider such as Convoy Car Shipping would be a much better option. It’s also the only way to go if you need to ship your car overseas. And for those with highly valuable cars, the peace of mind is well worth the added cost.
If you want to know more about the service we provide, please give us a call at (717) 227-7447 or send us an email.
You can also get an instant quote for auto transport right now.
Tow Dolly vs. Auto Transport FAQs
Can you tow an automatic with a car dolly?
Yes, you can tow an automatic with a car dolly. But keep in mind that tow dollies are designed for lighter models with front-wheel-drive transmissions.
Is a tow dolly good for long distances?
Using a tow dolly over long distances is not a good option because it puts your car through a lot of wear and tear, especially the vehicle’s rear wheels, and it exposes your car to a lot of risks on the open road. Towing an elevated vehicle long distances may also undermine the structural integrity of your car.
Can I use a tow dolly on a rear-wheel-drive car?
Usually, no. If your vehicle is rear-wheel-drive and you have to transport it with a tow dolly, you’ll typically have to disconnect the driveshaft to safely move it.
Can I use a towing dolly on the motorway?
It’s not advisable to use a towing dolly on the motorway because traveling at high speeds increases the risk of trailer sway.
Does insurance cover my tow dolly?
Maybe, but probably not. Insurance coverage will depend on your specific policy and the rental agreement (if you are renting your tow dolly). You will want to check your coverage before hand. If you aren’t covered, check to see if the rental company offers insurance options. Due to the likelihood of damage to your car, many car owners find insuring essential.
Does auto transport insure my car?
Most auto transport companies include insurance coverage in their service, which protects your vehicle no matter what happens in transit. Still, it’s best to double-check the company’s insurance policy and learn the extent of their coverage.
When is the cheapest time to ship a car?
The off-season in auto transport is between December and February. Shipping it during this time could make special rates available.
