This 2008 Tesla Roadster belongs to the early years of electric sports cars on the road, proving that the electric car is fast, small, and fun to drive. A vehicle with such a background definitely needs an appropriate transport plan that will consider the state of the vehicle since the latter is not able to move by itself anymore.
In this case, an inoperable Tesla Roadster was to be transported enclosed from Phoenix, Arizona, to Hollywood, Florida. The trip was to last some 2,363 miles, making this relocation across the country quite an endeavor. As it was impossible for the Roadster to get on the trailer by itself, special equipment for loading had to be considered.
The Route
The shipment originated in Phoenix, AZ 85027, and was to end in Hollywood, FL 33020, thus moving the Roadster from the Southwest region to South Florida region. The road distance covered in the transportation was about 2,363 miles.
It is clear that moving an inoperative vehicle is more difficult compared to moving a vehicle that operates on its own because it would not have been possible for the owner to simply drive it to the required location.
It would also have been important to understand how it is possible to load the vehicle when the time came to pick it up.
Shipping an Inoperable 2008 Tesla Roadster: What Matters Most
When a vehicle is referred to as being inoperable, the next step would be determining what else it can do. A car that does not have starting power but can move, turn, and brake would require a different kind of loading than the vehicle that has locked brakes and/or steering issues.
As for this particular Tesla Roadster, the type of the mechanical problem needs to be determined first so that the correct loading plan can be made by the carrier.
It is essential for electric cars to specify any problems with their batteries or other elements of the electrical system. In case the Tesla has a problem with the battery and other signs of the malfunctioning of the system, it should be reported to the transport coordinator before dispatch.
Before booking, owners need to be prepared to confirm:
- Whether the vehicle rolls: Can the wheels turn freely, or are any locked?
- Whether it steers and brakes: These details affect how the car can be moved during loading.
- What equipment may be needed: A winch or other loading solution may be necessary, depending on the vehicle’s condition.
- Whether there are known electrical concerns: Any battery damage or other relevant issues should be disclosed.
- Whether access is suitable: The pickup location needs enough space for the carrier and loading equipment.
As the information becomes increasingly accurate, the less likely there will be surprises at the time of the delivery, because the situation can be planned for properly in advance.
Enclosed Transport
The enclosed transport option encloses the vehicle in a covered trailer, thus shielding it from the elements such as rain, dust, road particles, and many others. In case of an advanced sports car like the 2008 Tesla Roadster, this extra cover could be beneficial to the owner looking for additional protection of the exterior while moving over a distance.
Another issue related to the shipment is the fact that the car is inoperable. The carrier will have to use the appropriate loading machinery which will suit the vehicle and the enclosed trailer. Every vehicle and every non-operational machine is not suitable for all types of loading machinery; therefore, verifying this matter beforehand is important.
Enclosed transport is usually costlier than the open option; however, it provides the covered environment throughout the trip. In the case of the Roadster, the enclosed transport was chosen.
Transport Summary
- Vehicle: 2008 Tesla Roadster
- Pickup: Phoenix, AZ 85027
- Delivery: Hollywood, FL 33020
- Distance: Approximately 2,363 miles
- Condition: Inoperable
- Transport: Enclosed trailer
