When you’re moving to a new place, figuring out how to move your car is just as important as moving your stuff. Usually, you’ve got three choices: drive the car yourself, use a tow dolly or go with an auto transport service. Driving it yourself might save money but it’s not always the best option—especially if you’re moving long distance or have more than one car.
That’s why most people end up choosing between a tow dolly and an auto transport service. Both options have their own pros, cons and costs. To help you pick the right one for your move, let’s break down the key differences between the two.
Tow Dolly
A car tow dolly is a small trailer with two wheels that lifts up the front tires of your car, while the back tires stay on the road. After securing your car onto the dolly, you attach it to another vehicle to pull it to your new place.
This isn’t a service where someone does it for you—you rent the dolly and handle everything yourself. That includes making sure your car is properly locked in place and getting it safely to your destination. Since most regular cars can’t tow another vehicle, you’ll probably need to rent a moving truck too.
Auto Transport Service
An auto transport service uses a trailer that carries your whole car off the ground. It’s a professional service offered by moving or shipping companies.
After you book it, the company takes care of everything—they load your car, secure it properly and deliver it to the place you’ve told them.
Tow Dolly vs. Auto Transport – Pros & Cons
Both options can move your car but each has its own pros and cons. Before you decide, think about these key points:
Cost
Tow dollies are usually the cheapest way to move a car. Auto transport services cost more—often double the price.
Set Up
It might sound odd but loading all four wheels onto a trailer is actually easier than getting just two onto a dolly. Setting up a tow dolly can be tricky, especially if you’ve never used one before. It might take a few tries. Auto transport trailers are easier to deal with since trained professionals handle the setup.
Safety
Towing a car isn’t simple. If the trailer starts swaying, it can make the car swing side to side which is dangerous—especially in bad weather. Professional auto transport drivers know how to manage this. But for someone without experience, it can be risky.
Wear & Tear
Using a tow dolly puts extra pressure on your car’s back wheels which can cause more wear. It’s usually okay for short moves, but for long trips, it can be rough on the car. Auto transport services don’t add any mileage or stress to your vehicle, making them a better choice for long-distance or interstate moves. The only thing to watch out for is normal road dirt or debris. If that worries you, you can pay extra for a covered (enclosed) trailer to keep your car protected.
Compatibility
Tow dollies work best with small, front-wheel drive cars. Some rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles might fit but not all. Cars that are low to the ground or have certain bumpers or body kits may scrape or not fit at all. Auto transport trailers, on the other hand, can carry almost any type of vehicle—even motorcycles—no matter the size or weight.
The Convenience Factor
Auto transport services may be more expensive but they save you a lot of time and stress. Instead of worrying about towing your car during the move, you can focus on other important tasks—like setting up utilities, internet or storage at your new home.
It also gives you more travel options. You don’t have to drive across the country—you can fly or ride in another car with your family, without the headache of pulling a vehicle behind you.
Car Moving Made Easy
When choosing between a tow dolly and an auto transport service, keep in mind that the lowest price doesn’t always mean the best option. STI Moving & Storage Inc offers auto transport that gets your car to your new home quickly, safely and without the hassle. There’s no extra mileage, no heavy lifting and a lot less stress.
Call today for a free quote!
