Why Custom Wheels Require Extra Care During Transport
Custom wheels are more than just a visual upgrade—they’re an investment in both style and performance. From lightweight alloys to off-road rims and high-performance tires, these upgrades often carry a high price tag and require extra attention when shipping. Whether you’re relocating, selling your vehicle, or attending an auto show, ensuring your custom wheels arrive safely is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the challenges of transporting custom wheels, how to prepare your vehicle, and why choosing the right auto transport partner—like Rivalane—makes all the difference.
The Hidden Risks of Shipping Custom Wheels
Custom wheels are often wider, heavier, and more delicate than standard factory wheels. Their specialized finishes—like chrome, brushed aluminum, or powder coating—make them more susceptible to chips, scratches, and curb rash. Unlike OEM wheels that sit flush within the wheel well, many custom setups extend past the fender, exposing them to added risks during loading, unloading, and transit.
Common risks include:
- Damage from road debris during open transport
- Improper strapping techniques, such as chains wrapped over rims
- Low ground clearance, which can increase the chance of scraping when using ramps
- Unskilled handling during tight maneuvers in transit or at terminal locations
This is why choosing the right transport method and preparation plan is crucial.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport for Custom Wheels
When it comes to selecting the right transport method, one size doesn’t fit all—especially for vehicles with custom wheels.
Open Transport: Cost-Efficient, But Exposed
Open transport is the industry standard and typically more affordable. Vehicles are loaded onto an open trailer, often two levels high, and transported alongside other vehicles. However, this method leaves your custom wheels exposed to dust, dirt, rain, and road debris.
While it’s safe for standard vehicles, custom wheels—especially those with polished or painted finishes—are more vulnerable to scratches or environmental wear during transit.
Enclosed Transport: Premium Protection
For car owners who value their investment, enclosed transport offers the highest level of protection. Vehicles are housed within a fully covered trailer, protected from external elements. This method is ideal for:
- Luxury or exotic vehicles
- Off-road vehicles with oversized wheels
- Classic or show cars with rare custom wheel setups
At Rivalane, our enclosed transport services come equipped with lift gates and soft-tie straps to minimize contact with your vehicle’s rims and undercarriage.
Prepping Your Custom Wheels for Transport
Proper preparation not only protects your wheels but also helps you spot any damage that may occur during the journey. Here’s what to do before handing your vehicle over:
- Clean the wheels and tires thoroughly. Dirt can hide chips or scratches.
- Inspect and photograph each wheel up close. These images will serve as a reference in case a claim is needed.
- Remove wheel accessories, such as center caps or decorative lug nuts.
- Ensure proper tire inflation based on the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Disable any aftermarket alarm systems or immobilizers that may interfere with loading.
Loading & Unloading: The Most Critical Moments
Most damage to custom wheels occurs during loading and unloading—when precision matters most. Professional transport companies like Rivalane use:
- Soft-tie down straps (instead of chains) to avoid direct rim contact
- Specialized ramps or hydraulic lift gates for vehicles with low ground clearance
- Trained handlers who understand how to manage aftermarket suspensions and wide setups
It’s not just about getting the vehicle onto the trailer—it’s about doing it safely and with respect to your custom upgrades.
Why Rivalane is Trusted for Custom Wheel Transport
At Rivalane, we specialize in shipping vehicles with custom modifications. Here’s why snowbird travelers, classic car owners, and high-end collectors trust us:
Soft-tie protection systems designed specifically for delicate wheel finishes
Enclosed trailers with lift gates for low-clearance vehicles
Accurate car shipping quotes with no hidden fees
Nationwide coverage with flexible delivery options
Cargo insurance coverage for added peace of mind
Your wheels are safe with us—no shortcuts, no guesswork.
Final Thoughts: Is Extra Care Worth It?
Absolutely. Custom wheels aren’t just expensive—they’re personal. They represent your style, your priorities, and your investment in your vehicle. That’s why proper care during transport isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a necessity.
When you choose Rivalane, you’re choosing a partner that treats your vehicle like it’s their own. From detailed pre-shipment inspections to damage-free delivery, we make sure your custom wheels stay flawless from start to finish.
Ready to ship a vehicle with custom wheels?
Contact Rivalane for a free quote today and experience car shipping designed around you.
