Long-distance car shipments are a game-changer to people relocating across state lines or even country borders, but the process of booking your shipment can be confusing. If you don’t know how to ship a car to another state, the information available online could leave you scratching your head. You probably know that using an interstate auto transport service can save you time and money, but how do you ensure your car’s readiness for transportation?
Before dropping off your vehicle for shipping, there are a few things that every driver should consider. Here’s your end-to-end pit-stop guide to preparing a long-distance vehicle shipment.
Pros and cons
If you’re at the very beginning of your journey, you might be waffling over whether to drive the car yourself or hire a service. There are some benefits of using a car transport company instead of taking the DIY approach.
Pros
- Saves you time and wear-and-tear on your vehicle
- Enables you to take a relaxing flight rather than a nail-biting cross-country road trip
- The fee is often comparable to what you’d spend on hotels and gasoline
Cons
- Can take up to two weeks to receive your vehicle (without expedited shipping)
- The fee can be costly if you have a luxury or classic car
While only you can decide what’s best for your vehicle, auto transportation is an excellent way to take some of the stress out of a relocation or other long-distance travel situation. If you decide that car shipping carriers are right for you, you’ll need to know a few things before you load your car on the truck.
Know about the different transport services
There are two primary types of transport services to consider. Open carrier trucks use over-the-road trailers to haul vehicles. In this case, cars are open to the elements and any road debris.
Enclosed carriers are a more secure option, as they cover the vehicle from the open air. However, enclosed carriers are among the most expensive shipping options, while open carriers are the cheapest.
Insurance coverage
The vehicle’s safety is vital. The entire goal of your shipment is to have a usable, good-condition car on the other side. That’s why it is essential to have insurance before the move.
Insurance is a massive aspect of vehicle safety. Life happens, and so do accidents. Whether it is a tire blowing out, an animal running onto the highway, or someone crashing into the carrier, not having any insurance tied to your vehicle can make things complicated and more costly in the end.
When preparing for long-distance car shipments, it is crucial to have full coverage on your vehicle. Loan holders will need to call your financial institution to let them know that the car is undergoing transport and where it will be going.
Finding a reliable vehicle transport service
There are many reliable transport services out there, so it is essential to do your research to find one that fits your budget while still guaranteeing the safety of your vehicle. It’s also a good idea to have at least three or four reputable services lined up for quotes before making any final decision.
Cost of the shipment
While it is essential to choose the best service, selecting the best price is also necessary for long-distance car shipments. However, there is a difference between cheap and “too good to be true.” Do not be tempted by the more affordable option if it may jeopardize your vehicle’s well-being.
Wrapping Up
Now that we’ve gone over a few of the most important things to consider when preparing for long-distance car shipments, it is easy to see why these types of moves can be such a hassle. However, by taking your time and doing your research before moving forward with any plans, you will guarantee the safety of your vehicle while saving yourself a lot of time and money in the long run.
