If you need to move your cars across the country, there are many factors to consider. You already know you want a low-cost auto shipping service, but you need also consider factors such as timing, transparency, and insurance. There are a few things you should do to ensure a seamless transaction.
Think About Your Options
There are a few options to move your cars from one side of the country to the other. Make sure you don’t miss your other possibilities before hiring a vehicle transport business.
Make Use Of Your Vehicle
Many individuals ship their automobiles because they don’t want to drive them, but you have the option of doing so as well. Gas, meals, and housing are the costs of driving your car (if it takes more than one day). You’ll pay a lot more if you use a car transport company:
- Gas – A semi-truck gets only 6.5 miles per gallon on average.
- Someone must pick up your vehicle and drive it to the car carrier.
- Customer service – Employees of the company provide you with a car shipping price, arrange your car transport, and answer any queries you may have.
- Company expenditures – The vehicle transportation company must generate enough revenue to support its whole workforce, pay licensing fees, and purchase equipment such as computers.
If you’re traveling more than 500 miles, car shipping is usually a good investment (the max you should drive in one day).
Use The Moving Truck To Tow Your Car
On the freeway, you’ve probably seen a U-Haul truck hauling a car behind it. A vehicle trailer or a tow dolly can be used to transfer most autos (a mini-trailer with only two wheels). Both solutions are less expensive than hiring a professional to transport your automobile across the country.
Although towing your automobile cross country is less expensive than hiring a car shipping firm, it is not nearly as convenient—and there are safety concerns to consider (towing a car is difficult).
Sell
If you don’t have the time or money to drive or tow your car, you can sell it. Selling your car these days doesn’t take much effort (thanks, internet), and the money can be put toward moving fees or a replacement vehicle.
Selling your automobile is a big step, so we only recommend it if you don’t have the funds to transport it or if you’re planning on buying a new one soon.
Get Multiple Quotes
Prices for car transportation differ from day to day, depending on factors such as distance, geography, car condition, and vehicle transport method. For a cross-country trip, the price difference between the cheapest and most expensive car shipping firms is more than $300, so getting multiple quotations is a good idea.
What Is The Distinction Between Open And Enclosed Transportation?
You have the option of shipping your automobile across the country in open or enclosed transport. While an open carrier is less expensive, it means your automobile will be crammed in with up to ten other vehicles and exposed to the elements. Because an enclosed carrier has four walls and transports fewer automobiles, it costs around 60% more than an open carrier.
Almost all cross-country transports are carried by open carriers. If you have a historic automobile or a fancy vehicle, you should consider using an enclosed carrier.
What Is The Cost Of Shipping An Automobile Across The Country?
The cost of shipping a car across the country is approximately $1,270. (2,750 miles). If you employ open transport instead of enclosed transit, your shipping costs will be lower. If you’re not planning on hitching a ride across Route 66, prices will be lower.
Make Your Decision
Choose the car shipping business that best suits your needs after receiving various bids. Of course, price is crucial, but you should also think about customer service and delivery time.
Low-Cost Options
It’s critical to obtain multiple quotations in order to locate the best deal. For example, when moving your car across the country, Bargain Auto Transport normally has the lowest rates, but American Auto Shipping is less expensive for short-distance transportation. Make a list of all of your exact transportation requirements and compare rates to find the best deal.
Quick Shipping
Some car transport firms are more efficient than others. When you inquire about shipment timelines, you can compare estimates in the same way that you compare prices. A cross-country cargo takes an average of nine days to arrive.
Customer Service Is Outstanding
After contacting for quotations, you should have a decent sense of a company’s customer service, but make sure to check online reviews as well. You don’t want to be put on wait for an extended period of time, dealing with impolite customer service representatives, or being driven by unprofessional drivers.
Get Ready For Pick-Up
When your automobile is ready for shipping, the auto transport service will come and pick it up. After loading your car into the truck, the driver will hit the road. Before you say your goodbyes, make sure to check off the following items on your car shipment checklist:
- Make sure your vehicle is safe to drive. Your vehicle must be able to be driven. Make sure your tires and battery are in good working order. Also, make sure your oil and fluids are up to date.
- Put your emergency brake to the test. If your automobile isn’t working, it won’t be accepted by a car shipping company.
- Check that your petrol tank isn’t more than a quarter full. The more gas in your car, the heavier it becomes (the more it costs to transport it).
- Attachments must be removed. Remove any bike racks, antennae, or other anything that could fall off or break during transport.
- Your car should be washed. When your automobile is clean, it’s simpler to spot damage, which is why this is such an important stage in getting your car ready to ship.
- Turn off your alarm. If it goes off, it may annoy your driver.
- Remove your electronic toll pass from service. Even if your smartphone is turned on, you will be charged for tolls.
Choose Your Insurance Coverage
Although shipping businesses have an excellent safety record, accidents sometimes occur. Just in case, you’ll want to have enough insurance coverage. Basic insurance is necessary for all transportation firms. Some, on the other hand, provide additional complimentary coverage.
Upon Delivery, Inspect For Damage
Your car is unlikely to be harmed, but you should inspect it to be sure. A bill of lading is a legal document that specifies any potential damage. The car shipping companies want you to sign the agreement upon pickup so that you can’t blame them for pre-existing damage.
However, your signature on the bill of lading is also vital when it comes to delivery. The car shipping business can claim it’s not their fault if you don’t document the damage (take pictures and write a description). As a result, filing an insurance claim is practically impossible.
Summary: Move Your Cars When Moving Out Of The Area
If you need to move your cars across the country, there are many factors to consider. You already know you want a low-cost auto shipping service, but you need also consider factors such as timing, transparency, and insurance. There are a few things you should do to ensure a seamless transaction.
If you have any questions about the best way to move your cars when moving out of the area contact me today.