Introduction
Car shipping can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Whether you’re moving across the country or buying a car from a dealership in another state, finding a reliable and trustworthy auto shipping company is essential to ensure a hassle-free process. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about vehicle shipping, from choosing the right company to preparing your vehicle for transport.
Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company
With so many shipping companies out there, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a shipping company:
- Reputation: Look for a company with a good reputation in the industry. Check reviews on websites like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to get an idea of the company’s track record.
- Experience: Choose a company with years of experience in the industry. Experienced moving companies are more likely to have the expertise and resources to handle your vehicle safely and efficiently.
- License and Insurance: Ensure the auto shipping company has a valid license and insurance to operate in your state. A reputable company should have no problem providing you with proof of their license and insurance.
- Price: Don’t choose a shipping company solely based on price. While it’s important to find a company that fits your budget, it’s equally important to ensure the company can meet your needs and provide quality service.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport
Before shipping your car, you’ll need to prepare it for transport. Here are some steps to follow:
- Clean Your Car: Give your car a thorough cleaning both inside and out. This will make it easier to inspect for any damages before and after transport.
- Document Any Existing Damage: Take pictures of your car from different angles, documenting any existing damage, dents, or scratches. This will be helpful in case of any disputes or claims.
- Remove Personal Items: Remove any personal belongings from your car. Vehicle shipping companies are not responsible for any personal items left inside your vehicle.
- Disable Car Alarm: If your car has an alarm system, disable it before transport to prevent any unnecessary interruptions.
- Check Fluids and Tire Pressure: Check your car’s fluid levels and tire pressure. Make sure everything is in good working order before shipping.
Choosing the Right Type of Car Shipping Service
There are two main types of car moving services: open and enclosed transport. Here’s what you need to know about each:
- Open Transport: Open transport is the most common type of auto shipping service. Your car is transported on an open trailer, exposed to the elements. While this type of service is more affordable, it also leaves your car vulnerable to damage from weather, road debris, and other hazards.
- Enclosed Transport: Enclosed transport is a more expensive option, but it provides better protection for your vehicle. Your car is transported in a fully enclosed trailer, protecting it from the elements and road debris.
Delivery Options
When it comes to vehicle shipping, there are two main delivery options: door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal.
- Door-to-Door: With this option, the transport company will pick up your vehicle from your current location and deliver it directly to your new home or business. This is a convenient option, but it’s typically more expensive than terminal-to-terminal.
- Terminal-to-Terminal: With this option, you’ll drop off your vehicle at a designated terminal and pick it up at another terminal at your destination. This option is usually less expensive than door-to-door, but it can be less convenient, especially if the terminal is far from your location.
Preparing for Pick-Up and Delivery
Before the transport company picks up your vehicle, there are a few things you need to do:
- Remove Toll Tags and Parking Passes: Remove any toll tags or parking passes from your car to prevent them from being charged while in transit.
- Leave a Quarter Tank of Gas: Leave your car with no more than a quarter tank of gas to reduce weight and minimize the risk of a fire during transport.
- Provide Keys and Necessary Documents: Provide the moving company with a set of keys and any necessary documents, such as the title and registration.
- Be Available for Inspection: Be present during the inspection of your vehicle before and after transport. This is important to ensure any damages are properly documented.
Benefits of Car Shipping
Auto Transport offers several benefits, including:
- Convenience: Auto shipping eliminates the need for you to drive your car long distances, saving you time and reducing the wear and tear on your vehicle.
- Cost-Effective: Shipping your car can be more cost-effective than driving it long distances, especially if you consider factors like fuel, lodging, and food.
- Protection: Car shipping provides protection for your vehicle, especially if you choose an enclosed transport service.
Common Car Shipping Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when shipping your car:
- Choosing the Wrong Company: Choosing the wrong vehicle shipping company can lead to delays, damages, and other issues. Do your research and choose a reputable and experienced company.
- Not Preparing Your Vehicle: Failure to prepare your vehicle for transport can lead to damages and disputes. Make sure to clean your car, document any existing damage, remove personal belongings, and check fluids and tire pressure.
- Not Inspecting Your Vehicle: Be present during the inspection of your vehicle before and after transport to ensure any damages are properly documented.
Tips for Saving Money on Car Shipping
terminal at your destination. This option is usually less expensive than door-to-door, but it can be less convenient, especially if the terminal is far from your location.
Preparing for Pick-Up and Delivery
Before the car shipping company picks up your vehicle, there are a few things you need to do:
- Remove Toll Tags and Parking Passes: Remove any toll tags or parking passes from your car to prevent them from being charged while in transit.
- Leave a Quarter Tank of Gas: Leave your car with no more than a quarter tank of gas to reduce weight and minimize the risk of a fire during transport.
- Provide Keys and Necessary Documents: Provide the car shipping company with a set of keys and any necessary documents, such as the title and registration.
- Be Available for Inspection: Be present during the inspection of your vehicle before and after transport. This is important to ensure any damages are properly documented.
Conclusion
Car shipping can be a complex and overwhelming process, but with the right preparation and a reliable car shipping company, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Remember to do your research when choosing a car shipping company, prepare your vehicle for transport, and choose the right type of service and delivery option to fit your needs. By following these steps, you can rest assured that your vehicle will arrive at its destination safely and efficiently.
Benefits of Car Shipping
Auto Shipping offers several benefits, including:
- Convenience: Auto shipping eliminates the need for you to drive your car long distances, saving you time and reducing the wear and tear on your vehicle.
- Cost-Effective: Shipping your car can be more cost-effective than driving it long distances, especially if you consider factors like fuel, lodging, and food.
- Protection: car transport provides protection for your vehicle, especially if you choose an enclosed transport service.
Common Car Shipping Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when shipping your car:
- Choosing the Wrong Company: Choosing the wrong car shipping company can lead to delays, damages, and other issues. Do your research and choose a reputable and experienced company.
- Not Preparing Your Vehicle: Failure to prepare your vehicle for transport can lead to damages and disputes. Make sure to clean your car, document any existing damage, remove personal belongings, and check fluids and tire pressure.
- Not Inspecting Your Vehicle: Be present during the inspection of your vehicle before and after transport to ensure any damages are properly documented.
Tips for Saving Money on Car Shipping
Here are some tips for saving money on car shipping:
- Plan Ahead: Booking your auto shipping in advance can save you money, as last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive.
- Choose Open Transport: Open transport is a more affordable option than enclosed transport, although it comes with more risks.
- Be Flexible with Delivery Dates: Being flexible with your delivery dates can help you find better deals on auto transport.
Conclusion
Car transport can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and research, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Remember to choose a reputable car shipping company, prepare your vehicle for transport, and consider your options for service and delivery. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can save money and ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and efficiently.
So, get a free car shipping quote now with one of the top moving companies like AG.