Transporting your car across state lines or across the country can be a stressful job. If you’re moving to a new house, buying a car over the internet, or sending a vehicle to someone you care about, you should know how auto shipping works.
So, let’s look at everything that is part of this process, from how to choose the right company to prepare your vehicle to transport it and make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Choosing the Right Car Shipping Service
First things first: find the right company. Although not every company offers exactly the same services, it’s important that you do not take them lightly. You should consider the company’s reputation, customer testimonials, insurance, and service options.
One way to get started is to compare offers from different companies. For example, you can get a shipping quote from RoadRunner Auto Transport because they are one of the best places to get a reliable price range and a dependable carrier in the industry known for affordability and transparency. This allows you to have an easy understanding of what you can expect in terms of services and costs.
Types of Car Shipping Services
Auto transport companies provide different types of services suitable for different needs. Here is a general overview of what you might expect:
Open Transport: This is the most popular and least expensive option. Your vehicle will be taken on open transport in a carrier along with several other automobiles. While cheaper, your vehicle is exposed to elements and rocks.
Enclosed Transport: To protect your vehicle from harsh weather and flying debris, choose an enclosed carrier. Even at a high cost, this is a convenient method for transporting luxury, high-end, or collector’s vehicles.
Door-to-Door Shipping: With this option, the carrier picks up and drops off your vehicle as close as the driver safely can from the desired locations. This is the easiest way to ship your vehicle, but it is also going to be the most expensive.
Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: You can either drop off or receive the vehicle at the appointed terminal. This option is the cheapest but takes the most effort.
How Much Does Car Shipping Cost?
The cost of shipping depends on several factors, including:
Distance: Longer distances typically cost more, but the price per mile decreases.
Type of Transport: Enclosed transport is more expensive than open transport.
Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to ship.
Pickup and Delivery Locations: Remote areas often incur higher fees.
Time of the Year: In summers, the cost is higher because of demand and the busyness of the roads.
To prevent any surprises, customers are always advised to request a rate quote before opting for a suitable company. This will help you to budget carefully and compete with a more transparent price.
Preparing Your Car for Shipping
A little preparation can go a long way to ensure the shipping process works without obstruction. Some of the things you can do ahead of time are:
Clean the Vehicle: Wash the exterior and clean the interior, so it’s easier to see any new damage during the inspection.
Inspect for Damage: Document existing scratches, dents, and other damages with photos.
Remove Personal Belongings: Having an empty vehicle means there is nothing to steal. It will also be lighter, which may save you money.
Turn Off Alarms: No one wants to deal with a blaring car alarm going off periodically during the trip.
Check Fluids and Battery: Check them, fill if needed, and check for leaks.
Leave a Bit of Fuel: This way, the vehicle is not too heavy but also doesn’t run the risk of running out of gas in the event it needs to be moved.
What to Expect During Transport
After your car has been picked up and is on its way, you will get updates of where your vehicle is. The company will also provide you with an estimated delivery date, give or take a day or so on each end. Weather, road construction, and other similar things can affect when the vehicle will arrive.
But once it does, do another walk around to inspect and determine whether it is in the same condition as it was the day it was picked up.
Benefits of Using a Professional Shipping Service
Car shipping is an easy and convenient process that can save you time and money, with other benefits, compared to driving it yourself.
Convenience: You can rest easy while trained professionals handle everything concerning the shipping.
Safety: Professional carriers are trained to transport vehicles securely and safely.
Cost Savings: In most cases, including gas, hotel stays, and all the other costs associated with a 2000-mile trip while driving it yourself, shipping the car will be cheaper.
Peace of Mind: It is insured the whole way, so you can have peace of mind that nothing will happen to it.
Common Myths About Shipping
Let’s debunk some misconceptions:
Myth: Car shipping is too expensive.
Reality: When you compare costs, it often saves money and time.
Myth: Your car will likely get damaged.
Reality: Reputable companies have the proper insurance, protection, and precautions to ensure nothing happens.
Myth: You need to be present for pickup and delivery.
Reality: While a lot of people would like to ensure it is in good hands, you can always have someone else there to ensure the pickup process is done correctly.
Final Thoughts
Car shipping is one of the simplest processes. It requires a little research on your part and the willingness to protect your investment as much as possible. Never be afraid to ask questions to make sure you get the peace of mind you deserve.