Transporting a caravan across state borders in Australia can be a complex task, especially if the caravan is unregistered. Whether you’ve just bought a second-hand caravan from another state, are restoring an old one, or relocating a project van for conversion, one key question arises: can you legally transport an unregistered caravan across states in Australia?

The short answer is yes, but only under certain conditions and with proper planning. This article will explore the rules and practical steps you need to follow to legally and safely move an unregistered caravan across state lines.

We’ll also share expert recommendations, including working with professionals like Interstate Towing AU in Melbourne, who specialise in transporting caravans—registered or not—throughout Australia.

Why Move an Unregistered Caravan Across States?

There are several reasons someone may want to move an unregistered caravan across state lines:

• Purchasing a used caravan from a seller in another state (which we know you might need this).
• Bringing home a caravan project to refurbish or convert into a tiny home.
• Relocating to a different state and transporting a caravan that has been off the road.
• Delivering a custom or vintage van to a specialist for repairs, registration, or resale.

However, the issue arises when the caravan doesn’t have current registration, which restricts its ability to be towed legally on public roads under normal conditions.

What Does It Mean for a Caravan to Be Unregistered?

An unregistered caravan lacks legal documentation and number plates authorising it to be towed or used on public roads. In Australia, all trailers—including caravans—must be registered to travel on public roads. Registration confirms that the vehicle has met certain safety and compliance standards.

An unregistered caravan may:

• Be unsafe or unfit for road use.
• Not be covered by compulsory third-party insurance.
• Incur fines if towed illegally.
• Complicate liability in case of an accident.

Is It Legal to Tow an Unregistered Caravan Across States?

Generally, you cannot tow an unregistered caravan on public roads, whether you’re crossing a state line or just travelling within a city. However, there are some exceptions and alternatives that allow you to transport an unregistered caravan across state borders legally.

Let’s look at your options:

Option 1: Apply for an Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP)

Each Australian state and territory offers some form of Unregistered Vehicle Permit (UVP), allowing a one-time legal movement of an unregistered vehicle under strict conditions.

What is a UVP?

A UVP is a temporary permit that authorises the use of an unregistered vehicle on public roads for a specific purpose, such as:

• Taking the caravan to a mechanic or inspection station.
• Moving it to a new location for registration.
• Transporting it interstate for sale, repair, or modification.

Key Conditions:

• Permits are time-limited: Typically valid for 1–7 days.
• You must have a defined route: You may need to submit start and end points and cannot deviate.
• Insurance may be included: Some states provide CTP (Compulsory Third Party) cover with the UVP.
• Towing vehicle must be roadworthy and registered.

State-Based Examples:

• NSW: Apply through Service NSW for an Unregistered Vehicle Permit.
• Victoria: VicRoads offers UVPs for short journeys.
• Queensland: TMR (Transport and Main Roads) offers UVPs under similar guidelines.

You must apply to the issuing state, and some states allow movement only within the state, not interstate—so be sure to check.

Option 2: Use a Professional Caravan Transport Service

If dealing with permits and regulations sounds overwhelming, your most hassle-free and legal solution is to hire a professional transport company.

Why Use Professional Caravan Transporters?

• No need for UVPs or towing logistics.
• They use flatbed trucks or specialised trailers to carry the caravan—no need for it to be roadworthy.
• Interstate compliance is handled for you.
• Safe, insured, and often quicker.

A leading example is Interstate Towing AU in Melbourne, known for their expertise in transporting caravans and other large vehicles across Australian states. They handle both registered and unregistered caravans, with services tailored for private buyers, dealers, restorers, and travellers.

Professional transport is ideal if:

• Your caravan is large, old, or damaged.
• You’re not comfortable towing.
• You don’t want to manage regulatory paperwork.
• You want to avoid the risk of towing long distances.

Option 3: Tow on Private Property or Non-Public Roads

Another legal workaround is if you have access to private roads or farmland that spans borders (in rare cases), or if the caravan is being moved within a rural property or industrial estate.

However, this method has very limited applicability, and most Australians transporting between major states like NSW, VIC, QLD, or SA won’t find this feasible.

Option 4: Register the Caravan First (If Possible)

If you can register the caravan before transport, this becomes the simplest method. This is usually only possible if:

• You have the necessary compliance documents.
• The caravan meets current safety standards.
• The caravan is already in your state and can be inspected.

In this case, registering the caravan and then towing it yourself is entirely legal, but you still must ensure:

• Your towing vehicle is compliant.
• You’re following towing capacity limits.
• You have proper trailer brakes if over 750kg.

However, if the caravan is still in another state, this option likely won’t be viable.

What Are the Risks of Towing an Unregistered Caravan Without a Permit?

Attempting to tow an unregistered caravan without a UVP or professional transport can expose you to:

• Hefty fines: You could face thousands in penalties for illegal towing.
• Vehicle impoundment: Authorities may impound the caravan or towing vehicle.
• Insurance voidance: Your car insurance may not cover incidents during illegal towing.
• Safety risks: Unregistered often means uninspected, and towing an unfit caravan is a danger to yourself and others.

What to Prepare Before Transporting an Unregistered Caravan

Whether you go the UVP route or hire a professional transporter, prepare these documents and steps:

• Proof of ownership (sale receipt, transfer form)
• Weight and size specifications
• Route plan or destination address
• Inspection photos (optional but helpful)
• Check for any outstanding issues (brakes, tyres, structural safety)

If you use a transport service like Interstate Towing AU in Melbourne, they will usually walk you through the process and handle most logistics.

Costs of Transporting an Unregistered Caravan

1. With UVP and DIY Towing:

• UVP fees: $25–$90 depending on state
• Fuel and travel costs
• Time and personal effort
• Risk if something goes wrong

2. With a Transport Company:

• Starting from $400–$1,500+, depending on:
  • Distance (e.g., Melbourne to Brisbane or Sydney)
  • Caravan size and weight
  • Urgency of delivery
  • Location accessibility

Although professional transport is more expensive, it’s often worth the peace of mind, especially if you’re moving a valuable or delicate caravan.

Summary: Can You Transport an Unregistered Caravan Across State?

Yes, you can—but not by just hooking it up and driving off. You must either:

• Apply for a UVP (if permitted by the state/s involved), or
• Hire a professional transporter like Interstate Towing AU in Melbourne.

If in doubt, choose the safest, most legal route to avoid complications—particularly with unregistered or unroadworthy vans.

Final Tips

• Plan ahead: Interstate rules can differ, and permits may take a few days to process.
• Double-check border rules: Some states require additional paperwork or have special limits.
• Use experienced transporters: Especially if it’s your first time or the caravan is a high-value asset.
• Ask for tracking and insurance: If hiring transport, ensure your caravan is fully insured during transit.

Transporting an unregistered caravan may sound daunting, but with the right information—and the right help—it can be smooth, safe, and completely legal. Whether you’re restoring a vintage van or relocating across Australia, a little planning goes a long way.

Need reliable caravan transport across state borders? Contact Interstate Towing AU in Melbourne—Australia’s trusted name in moving caravans, campers, trailers, and more.