When you’re moving to a new home, figuring out how to get your car there is just as important as moving your furniture. Most people have three options – drive the car themselves, use a tow dolly, or hire an auto transport service. Driving it yourself might seem cheaper but it’s not always the best idea—especially if you’re moving long distance or have more than one vehicle.
That’s why many people choose between using a tow dolly and hiring an auto transport service. Each one has its own benefits, downsides and price. To help you decide which one works best for your move, let’s take a closer look at how they differ.
Tow Dolly
A car tow dolly is a small two-wheeled trailer that holds up the front wheels of your car, while the back wheels roll on the ground. You strap your car onto the dolly and then hook it up to another vehicle to tow it to your new home.
This isn’t a service where someone helps you—you rent the tow dolly and do it all on your own. That means making sure your car is secured correctly and driving it safely to your new place. And since most everyday cars aren’t made to tow, you’ll likely need to rent a moving truck as well.
Auto Transport Service
An auto transport service uses a large trailer that lifts your entire car off the ground. It’s a professional service provided by moving or car shipping companies.
Once you book the service, the company handles it all. They load your car, make sure it’s safely strapped in and then deliver it to the location you’ve given them.
Tow Dolly vs. Auto Transport – Pros & Cons
Both choices will get your car to your new place but each comes with its own good and bad sides. Before making a decision consider these important points:
Cost
Tow dollies are often the most budget-friendly option for moving a car. Auto transport services are more expensive—sometimes even twice as much.
Set Up
It might seem surprising but loading all four wheels onto a trailer is usually easier than getting just two onto a dolly. Using a tow dolly can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to it—it might take a few tries to get it right. On the other hand, auto transport trailers are simpler because the professionals take care of everything for you.
Safety
Towing a car isn’t easy. If the dolly or trailer sways, it can cause the car to move side to side which is dangerous—especially during bad weather. Auto transport drivers are trained to handle this kind of situation. But if you don’t have experience, it can be risky.
Wear & Tear
A tow dolly puts extra strain on your car’s back tires which can lead to more wear and tear. It’s usually fine for short distances but not ideal for long moves. Auto transport keeps your car fully off the road, so there’s no added mileage or stress. That makes it a better choice for long trips or out-of-state moves. The only downside is your car might get dusty or hit by small road debris—but you can pay extra for an enclosed trailer if you want full protection.
Compatibility
Tow dollies are mostly made for small cars with front-wheel drive. Some rear-wheel or all-wheel drive cars might work but not always. If your car sits low or has special bumpers or body kits, it might scrape or not fit on the dolly. Auto transport trailers are more flexible—they can move almost any kind of vehicle including motorcycles, no matter the size or weight.
The Convenience Factor
Auto transport services might cost more but they save you time and take a lot of stress off your plate. You won’t have to worry about towing your car while also handling your move—you can focus on things like setting up internet, utilities or storage at your new place.
It also gives you more freedom with travel. You don’t have to drive the whole way—you can fly or ride with your family without the hassle of pulling a car behind you.
Car Moving Made Easy
When picking between a tow dolly and an auto transport service, remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best one. STI Moving & Storage Inc makes car moving simple by offering safe and quick auto transport. Your car gets to your new place without extra miles, no heavy work on your end and way less stress.
Call today for a free quote!
