If you’ve ever had to move to a new state, you know that the logistics of transporting your car can be one of the more stressful parts of the process.
Whether
you’re relocating for a job, going to college, or simply moving to a new area,
shipping your car can save you time and miles.
But how
exactly do you go about it?
Here’s a simple guide on how to ship a car to another state and what to consider to make the process easier.
Why You Should Consider Shipping Your Car
Shipping a
car to another state might seem like an unnecessary expense at first, but it
can actually be more cost-effective and less stressful than driving it
yourself.
For
example, driving across the country could cost you anywhere from $500 to $1,000
in gas, food, and hotel stays.
According
to a study, 63% of people who shipped their cars found the cost to be
comparable or even cheaper than driving themselves.
Additionally,
long road trips can wear down your vehicle, especially if it’s an older car.
Shipping your car protects it from potential damage or wear and tear caused by thousands of miles on the road.
Choose the Right Car Shipping Method
There are several ways to ship a car, but the two most common options are open-air transport and enclosed transport.
Open-Air
Transport: This is
the most affordable method, where your car is loaded onto a truck and
transported with other vehicles.
It’s a
safe option for most cars, although your vehicle will be exposed to the
elements during transit.
According to the American Moving & Storage Association, about 75% of car shipments are done using open-air transport due to its lower cost.
Enclosed
Transport: If you
have a luxury car, classic car, or high-value vehicle, you may want to opt for
enclosed transport.
This
offers more protection as your car will be inside a fully enclosed truck,
shielded from weather, dirt, and debris.
The
downside?
It’s typically 30% to 40% more expensive than open-air transport.
Get Multiple Quotes
When it
comes to shipping your car, getting multiple quotes is key to finding the best
deal.
Prices can
vary based on factors like the distance, type of transport, and the make and
model of your car.
On
average, shipping a car within the continental United States will cost between
$500 and $1,500.
For shorter distances, you might pay closer to $500, while longer shipments can cost over $1,000.
Make sure
to reach out to multiple shipping companies to compare prices.
You’ll
also want to ask about their experience with car shipping and customer service
reviews.
If you’re unsure where to start, you can always consult with the Best Moving Companies in the USA, as they often offer car shipping as part of their services.
Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Before
your car is picked up for transport, there are a few things you should do to
prepare it.
First,
wash your car to make it easier to spot any existing dents or scratches.
It’s also
important to remove all personal belongings from the car, as shipping companies
often don’t allow items to be left inside the vehicle.
Make sure your car has enough fuel to drive onto the transport truck but not so much that it adds unnecessary weight.
Most
companies recommend keeping the gas tank around a quarter full.
You should
also check for any mechanical issues that might affect the shipping process and
document the condition of the vehicle before it’s loaded onto the truck.
Track Your Shipment and Stay in Communication
Once your
car is on its way, many shipping companies offer tracking services so you can
monitor its progress.
Be sure to
stay in communication with the transport company throughout the process to
ensure everything is on track.
According
to a survey by Auto Transport Reviews, 78% of people who tracked their
shipment were more satisfied with the process.
Receiving Your Car
When your
car arrives at its destination, inspect it thoroughly for any damage.
While
shipping companies take precautions to ensure your vehicle arrives safely,
accidents can happen.
If you
notice any damage, report it immediately to the transport company.
Most
companies offer insurance coverage, so you’ll be able to file a claim if
necessary.
Comments
Post a Comment