The Key to Shipping a Car Across the Country

Car shipping is becoming a trendsetter in the delivery business. When it comes to cross-country trips for moving and//or business, you would be surprised what that journey may entail for the driver. Things like fatigue, costs, and time, are just a few of the consequences of driving across the state lines. But thankfully, car shipping is something that helps with all of that. If you’re wondering, then read on, for this article’s ‘key’ goal, is to explain the means of how car shipping is a great tool for you to make use of.

Understanding The Options of Car Shipping  

When you choose how you are shipping your car, there are mainly two types of options available to you: enclosed transport and open transport. 

You can see more about these options at the site listed here: https://www.consumeraffairs.com/auto/open-vs-enclosed-shipping.html 

1. Open Transport

Open transport is the most common type and the most effective means of transport in terms of cost. It involves shipping the car into an open-air trailer. It is a budget-friendly option, but not without risks, as the car inside can be exposed to the elements of nature and road debris. 

2. Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport is the option that offers the greater protection out of the two. The car will be placed in a trailer like the open method, however in contrast it will be closed off and shielded from any hazards from debris and nature. It is the safer method to be sure, but it is also the more costly one. 

How to Find a Reliable Company 

1. Researching and Reviewing

Do your research on different car companies. Look online for customer reviews, and company ratings, along with any other green or red flags. Sites like Yelp and Google Reviews are great tools for finding such. 

2. Get A lot of Estimates

One estimate is not the same as another. Get quotes from multiple companies, at least three. This helps you in comparing their prices and services, deciding which option is the best for you.

3. Verify Credentials

This of course goes without saying. Make sure that the company you are considering has the proper licensing and credentials necessary for what they offer. Check their records with the Department of Transportation (see more here) and verify them with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

What’s the Potential Cost?

Despite its convenience, car shipping does not come without a price, literally. Several factors can influence the cost of shipping. Some of these include:

• Distance: the longer the distance, the more the cost of the journey.

• Type of Vehicle: lighter and smaller vehicles may be less expensive to ship; larger and heavier ones vice versa. 

• Shipping Method: as stated before, the shipping method can affect costs. Enclosed transport, while safer, is more expensive than open transport. 

• Time of the Year: costs can also vary depending on the time of the year. For example, in the summer months car business tends to be busier and more expensive than perhaps the cooler seasons. 

Keeping all of this in mind, it is generally safe to keep a good budget on hand when considering car shipping. Any amount between $500-$1500 should be sufficient to cover the costs, though it may be prudent to keep extra on hand in case of any additional costs. 

Some More Bonus Tips

And of course here are a few extra tips to help Transport Your Car Across the Country more efficiently. 

1. Make Sure to Plan Ahead

Book your shipment well ahead of time. It will give more options and better rates, while doing so last minute will severely limit the options available to you. 

2. Have Clear Communication

Make sure to have an open line of communication with the shipping company, so that you will have access to them when you may need their support in the case of information and tracking. 

3. Be Aware of Potential Scams

A great deal is not always a truthful one. Be aware of potential scams, like requests for large deposits and vague details on services. 

Conclusion

You now know how car shipping can help you and how convenient it is. So, what are you going to do about it? The key to this service is always on hand, you only have to turn it!  When it comes to shipping your car, ensure that you have all the means to do so available and at hand. Verify the company and its credentials, choose the method of transport that’s best for what you’re looking for, and ensure that the vehicle you want to ship is in the condition that you saw before purchasing. 

Keep all of these things in mind, and you are sure to be successful in making use of the perks of car shipping!