When ordering a fast or expedited car transport, one common value-added service is a top load. This means that the car will be located at the top of the open carrier. The benefit is that in addition to a fast transport, a top load offers greater protection from road debris, fluid leaks, and other risks.
But do all the fast carriers allow top load requests? The short answer is no, but many do. Here are some steps you can take to increase the odds considerably.
This guide describes what top-load service is, how carriers accept requests for this service, and how to place requests for top-load service through websites such as Fast-Car-Transport.com.
What a Top-Load Request Really Means in Fast Transport
A top-load request places your car on the upper level of a multi-car open trailer. A top-load is considered a premium position because:
- Less exposure to road debris
- No risk of oil or fluid drips from vehicles above
- Better protection during long-distance trips
- Reduced chance of incidental scratches or dents
Because fast carriers are so concerned with efficiency, the arrangement of the car is such that top-loading the car is both possible and likely, though not a certainty.
Why Not All Fast Carriers Accept Top-Load Requests
While many haulers try to accommodate top-load requests, there are several reasons why this is unlikely:
Trailer Configuration
- Some open carriers run single-level hotshot trailers.
- If the truck has no upper deck, a top-load is not possible.
Weight and Balance Requirements
- Federal regulations require carriers to evenly distribute weight.
- If its weight is inappropriate, the driver cannot fit it there in the first place.
Existing Vehicle Arrangements
Loaded cars make it more difficult to move the other cars into the top-load position when their capacity is not full.
Time Sensitivity
- Fast haulers work to very tight schedules.
- However, they may forgo the upgrade if this would delay multiple cars’ schedules.
Safety Policies
- Even when available, it may not be possible if your car is oversized, modified, or of low clearance.
- In short: top-load is a premium request, not a guarantee-but you can dramatically improve your chances by following the right process.
How to Request Top-Load Placement Successfully
It is essential to time your shape so that you have the best odds of top loading.
Step 1: Make Your Request Early
- On the Internet, or on the phone with a dispatcher, mention “top-load request.”
- Early notice allows the carrier to plan the load, before sending out the truck.
Step 2: Choose a Company That Supports Top-Load Options
Alternatively, services such as Fast-Car-Transport.com allow you to specify certain premium upgrades that carriers will likely honour, if available.
Step 3: Know Your Vehicle Specs
Carriers often ask for:
- Vehicle weight
- Height
- Ground clearance
- Modifications
This is to check whether your vehicle is suitable for the upper deck.
Step 4: Stay Flexible With Pickup
In addition, if you’re willing to be flexible on pick-up times (even if it means moving on the same day), you have a better chance of getting a top load when the dispatcher can choose from more trucks.
Step 5: Confirm Final Placement With the Driver
Ultimately drivers determine the load based on vehicle safety and weight balance.
Politeness, preparation, and availability tend to increase cooperativeness.
When Top-Load Requests Are Most Useful
While all vehicles benefit from a top-load position, some cut through stronger than others:
Luxury Cars
To inhibit debris accumulation and keep clean.
Classic and Vintage Cars
Top-load reduces risk of exposure and lower-deck hazards.
Exotics and Low-Clearance Cars
Sports cars usually have weak underbodies not designed to cope with something dripping above
Newly Purchased Cars
Especially for dealership-to-home deliveries.
Vehicles with Fresh Paint
This ensures that they meet federal safety and insurance requirements.
How Fast-Car-Transport.com Helps Secure a Top-Load Request
ExpediteCarShipping.com is dedicated to offering fast service and reliable insurance.
They offer:
Here’s how the platform supports top-load requests:
- Allows you to submit the request directly during quoting
- Matches you with carriers who offer premium loading options
- Offers express communication between you and the dispatcher
- Helps you find truckers with ideal trailer setups
- Provides guidance if top-load is not immediately available
- Works to secure the safest alternative if the request cannot be met
This level of support greatly increases the odds of getting a top deck position on short notice.
Yes, You Can Request Top Load—But Plan Ahead
Do urgent transporters offer any insurance? Yes. The insurance requirement of expedited vehicle shipping or rush shipping is generally the same or even more than standard vehicle shipping. When choosing to ship your vehicle with a reputable industry leading vehicle shipping company like ExpediteCarShipping.com you can expect: professionalism, timely pick up and drop off, insurance on your vehicle and peace of mind while your vehicle is shipped. When you are rushing against the clock, the last thing you need to worry about is the insurance. With good hands, urgent shipping is safe and fast.
