The Stovebolt Forums Forums The Parking Lot General Truck Talk Freight shipping options

I’m trying to buy a motor and tranny in California and have it shipped to me here in Texas. Submitted a quote request to Fastenal and got a reply saying…..

“The route you have requested for your shipment is currently not available. Due to COVID-19, limited capacity, environmental and other restrictions, we are currently not shipping between our east and west zones. For a map of our zones and the latest status on restrictions please visit our website www.fastenal.com/blf”

What other options do I have? Suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks

There are other LTL freight companies out there. I've used YRC [yrc.com] & Span Alaska to get a 4x4 axle from Pennsylvania to Alaska, but that was quite a while ago. They may not quote for individuals, although I did get tires shipped to me by Span Alaska (free shipping to their terminal in Washington, then barged up here to Alaska) when the vendor wanted $3000 to ship directly to me in Alaska, but offered free shipping in the Lower 48.

Another LTL outfit is XPO (have not used them).

There are also LTL freight brokers who could handle your shipment.

Terminal to Terminal (you pick up at their terminal) is the cheapest way to go for any freight company. Local delivery adds quite a bit to the cost.

Grab a small U-Haul trailer and take a road trip? If you're uncomfortable with entering a combat zone, maybe the seller could meet you at the state line.
Jerry

Kevin, thanks for the suggested freight lines. I’ll look into them and other lines here in Texas.

Jerry, you crack me up! “Combat zone”?? Love it!

It’s 1,800 miles and 28 hours one way to where I need to go get the motor. Great idea, but I just got back to work after a 3-week vacation so taking time off now isn’t possible. Why didn’t the motor come up for sale while I was on vacation?!?!?

Go to Uship.com, follow the prompts - and you will get a quote. Just know that the shippers and agents all work together - for the most part.

FedEx does freight. I purchased a frame and FedEs handled the freight.

Glad you said "trying" to buy. The answer is don't buy it. Prices, routes and trust is out the door right now. Won't be back for many a day. Find one near you. Don't say there are none. There are.

Example: You get this for $1500-2000.......way less than buying one on CA. Go hear it run. 3 hours. or face time it. You get all the parts to sell.........with a title. You will end up getting the motor and trans for free. Been there done that.
You gotta do what I do, think outside the bottle.
https://houston.craigslist.org/atq/d/houston-1954-chevy-bel-air-for-sale/7429841832.html

Chuck
Just sent you a private message.

Lee, just responded.

7045george, thanks for telling me about FedEx. Didn’t think they would be an option.

Tom, thanks for reminding me about Uship.com. I’ve used them before to haul a car for me. I’ll investigate.

Bartamos, you speak wise words, Kimosabe. You’re right, finding one closer to home would be ideal, but the problem is I haven’t been able to find one. They’re either “boat anchors” or nice rebuilt fancy motors priced high as a cats back! Nothing in between that I’ve wanted to buy. I’ll keep looking, but in the meantime my old green truck sits parked in the driveway wondering when I’m ever going to drive it again. Wish me luck!

Getting a whole vehicle hauled is a lot easier than heavy freight. Freighters require specific crating, the receiving person to have a way to lift and roll the crate and are very expensive. The whole thing would be a nightmare. Find a motor near then a tranny near or haul a whole car/truck with a Uhaul trailer. DIY is the only way in this case. What vehicle is this for and what is wrong with it's motor now?