How to Ship a Tesla Safely

Battery state, transport mode, and prep steps for shipping Tesla Model S/3/X/Y without surprises.

Quick answer

Ship your Tesla with the battery at roughly 40–60% charge, Sentry Mode off, and Transport Mode enabled at pickup. Most Teslas ship safely on open carriers, but Model S/X owners often choose enclosed for stone-chip protection. Confirm the carrier is comfortable handling EVs — most are.

Battery state and Sentry Mode

Aim for 40–60% state of charge at pickup. Too low risks a dead battery during transit; too high serves no purpose. Disable Sentry Mode and Dashcam recording before pickup — they'll drain the 12V battery over a multi-day haul. Tesla's Transport Mode (Service → Towing) keeps the brakes released so the carrier can roll the vehicle on and off without dragging.

Open vs enclosed for a Tesla

Open transport is safe and standard for Model 3 and Model Y. Many Model S and Model X owners choose enclosed for paint protection, especially on long hauls or when the vehicle is new. Performance variants with PPF (paint protection film) typically don't need enclosed unless aesthetics matter to the owner.

Ground clearance and loading

Standard-suspension Teslas clear most car-hauler ramps without issue. Lowered Model S Plaid or aftermarket-modified vehicles may need a soft-ramp carrier or hydraulic liftgate (enclosed). Mention any suspension modifications to your coordinator before booking — equipment matters.

Documentation and handoff

Provide the carrier with the Tesla key card and a charged phone-key as backup. Walk through the bill of lading inspection in good lighting — Tesla paint can show very fine swirl marks that need to be noted before pickup, not after delivery.

Key takeaways

Aim for 40–60% battery charge at pickup.
Disable Sentry Mode and Dashcam recording to protect the 12V battery.
Enable Transport Mode (Service → Towing) for loading.
Model 3/Y ship safely on open carriers; many S/X owners choose enclosed.
Disclose any suspension modifications upfront — equipment selection depends on it.

Frequently asked questions

Do carriers know how to handle Teslas?+

Most do — EVs are routine now. Confirm at booking and ensure Transport Mode is enabled so the carrier can roll the vehicle without dragging.

Should I ship my Tesla enclosed?+

Optional for Model 3/Y; commonly chosen for Model S/X and newly purchased vehicles where stone-chip protection matters.

Will the battery drain during transit?+

Minimally if Sentry Mode and Dashcam are off. A 3–7 day haul with the battery at 50% leaves plenty of margin.

Shipping a Tesla and want a coordinator who knows EVs?

We'll match you with a carrier comfortable with Tesla loading and battery considerations.

Talk with a shipping specialist

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