Do Smaller Carriers Offer Better Door-to-Door Service? Maybe. Here's Why

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One of the biggest questions customers have about auto transport is how close the truck can actually get to their home. While most companies advertise “door-to-door service,” the size of the truck often determines just how close to your front door the driver can realistically deliver. 

A smaller enclosed auto transport carrier delivering a sedan to the front door.

This raises the question: do smaller carriers offer better door-to-door service than full-size haulers?

The Challenge with Full-Size Carriers

Standard auto transport trucks are massive, often carrying 7–10 vehicles at once. These full-size carriers can be up to 75 feet long and sit 13 feet high, which creates several challenges in residential areas:

  • Tight turns and cul-de-sacs can be impossible to navigate

  • Low bridges and tree branches may block access

  • Weight restrictions on local roads may prevent entry

  • Limited parking space in neighborhoods makes loading and unloading risky

For these reasons, full-size carriers often meet customers at wider, safer spots nearby—such as a shopping center parking lot or a main road.

How Smaller Carriers Make a Difference

Smaller carriers, often two- to three-car haulers, have a significant advantage in accessibility. Because they’re shorter, lighter, and easier to maneuver, they can usually get into residential neighborhoods that big rigs cannot. That means:

  • More flexibility to reach tighter streets

  • Less need to coordinate alternate meeting locations

  • Quicker pickup and drop-off at or near your exact address

For customers living in gated communities, urban centers, or areas with narrow streets, a smaller carrier can sometimes provide a more convenient door-to-door experience.

The Trade-Offs

While smaller carriers may offer better access, there are some trade-offs to consider:

  • Fewer vehicles per trip means scheduling might take longer

  • Potentially higher costs since smaller haulers don’t spread expenses across as many cars

  • Less availability because many smaller carriers operate regionally rather than nationwide

Which Is Right for You?

The type of carrier that works best often depends on your location and timeline. If you live in a suburban or rural area with wide roads, a full-size carrier may have no trouble reaching your driveway. But if your home is in a tight neighborhood or busy city, a smaller truck could make door-to-door transport more practical.

Final Thought

Smaller carriers can, in many cases, offer a true “door-to-door” experience because of their flexibility. Larger carriers, however, remain the backbone of the industry thanks to their capacity and wider availability. The best choice comes down to balancing convenience, cost, and scheduling based on your unique situation. 

Learn More 

For reliable car shipping services, contact Viceroy Auto Transport now!


Location: United States

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