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Challenges You Face When Shipping a Car

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Auto shipping is a convenient option for transporting your vehicle across a long distance. However, that’s not to say it doesn’t come without its challenges. Your vehicle is a valuable and highly-priced item so you want to be sure it is in the right hands and you are well prepared. Any time you are moving a valuable possession, it can be fraught with stress. Although you cannot anticipate every problem you may encounter with auto shipping, there are certainly a few challenges that are more common than others. Here are some of the most common challenges you may face with auto shipping and how to overcome them.

Potential Risk of Damage

Though it is not expected, there is always the possibility that your car could get damaged during the shipping process. Between loading and unloading vehicles onto trailers and then driving those trailers over bumpy roads, there is always a chance that your car could incur damage. It’s also possible that damage could occur from heavy rain, ice, snow, or flying debris on the roadway. The best way to avoid potential damage is to choose a company that provides the right equipment and experience to handle your vehicle safely. As for the weather, you can always opt for an enclosed trailer if you are shipping a luxury, antique, or brand new vehicle that may require additional protection.

Delayed Delivery

Delayed delivery is one of the most common challenges that can arise with car shipment. Though car shipping companies try their best to deliver your car on the expected delivery date, there are a lot of factors that can affect shipping times that are completely out of anyone’s control. For example, your driver could encounter bad weather, traffic jams, road closures, or even unexpected maintenance issues with the trailer carrying your vehicle. Keep in mind that it is impossible for any company to provide an exact delivery date, but try to work with a reputable company that has a history of timely delivery.

Scams and Fraudulent Estimates

Unfortunately, not all companies are legitimate and there are scammers out there. The best way to avoid being scammed by a fraudulent company is to do your own research ahead of time. Confirm the company’s licensing and registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This is also a good resource for checking their safety history. Inquire about insurance and make sure your vehicle is covered in the event it gets damaged. You also want to read reviews and ask around to see if friends or coworkers can provide a reference. Finally, ask for your estimate in writing and verify that there will not be any additional fees or charges.

Poor Communication

Lack of communication is another common challenge in auto shipment and unfortunately can interfere with the shipping process. To avoid this, be sure your car meets the travel-specific requirements ahead of time and let the carrier know if there are any concerns or issues. You should also request to exchange contact information with the driver so you can stay up-to-date with your car’s delivery status.

What Should You Know About Car Shipping Rates?

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If you are planning to ship a car, the first question on your mind is probably, “How much will it cost?” Unlike other products and services, there is not a single fixed rate for auto shipment. There are actually a number of different factors that come into play when determining how a car’s shipping price is calculated. Auto-shipping is also a supply/demand business, which means rates will fluctuate based on demand. Let’s delve a little deeper into how shipping rates are calculated and what factors affect shipping prices.

Factors That Determine Shipping Rates

1. Distance: As one might expect, the farther you are shipping a car, the more it will cost you. Longer trips usually cost less per mile, but since there are more miles to be traveled you can expect this to be reflected in the price.

2. Vehicle Size and Type: Another important factor that will determine shipping costs is the make, model, and size of the vehicle being shipped. Since auto carriers have weight restrictions, larger and heavier vehicles will cost more to ship than smaller vehicles.

3. Vehicle Condition: If your vehicle is inoperable, you can expect to pay a higher price to ship it. That’s because inoperable vehicles require special equipment to load and unload the vehicle on and off the carrier. There is usually an additional charge of about $200 for vehicles that are not in working condition.

4. Location of Shipment: Another factor that affects shipping rates is the location of pickup and/or delivery. Heavily traveled routes such as those between major cities will cost less because there are likely to be other vehicles for carriers to pick up and drop off along the way. On the other hand, if you are delivering a vehicle to a rural area that is not heavily traveled, you can expect to pay a premium price.

5. Type of Carrier: Most shipping companies will give you the option of choosing between open and enclosed transport. Enclosed transport is more expensive because the carrier can hold fewer vehicles.

6. Time of Year: Given that this is a supply and demand industry, truckers will set prices based on demand. During certain times of the year, car shipping is in higher demand and this can sometimes affect shipping rates in those areas.

7. Fuel Costs: Gas and diesel prices can also affect shipping rates. Just as with the airline industry, if fuel prices go up so do the prices.

8. Expedited/ Rush Service: If you need your car delivered in a hurry, there are expedited shipping options that will increase the rate. On the other hand, if you are more flexible with your delivery date, you can save a lot of money.

Average Rates to Ship a Car

The typical car shipping cost can range anywhere from $500 to $1500. On average, the cost is about $2.92 per mile for distances under 200 miles and $0.78 per mile for distances over 1,000 miles. These numbers can give you a rough estimate of shipping costs, but the only way to get an accurate quote is by requesting a personalized estimate.

Should I Ship My Car or Sell it and Buy a New One?

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When you are moving across the country, you may be wondering how to get your car there without having to drive it. Better yet, you may be wondering if it’s more convenient and cost-effective just to sell it and buy a new one. While there are pros and cons to both options, it ultimately comes down to a few important factors. Here we will take a closer look at your options as well as specific factors that may determine which decision is right for you.

Option #1: Shipping Your Car

Moving across the country is stressful enough, and thinking about the logistics of getting your car there can make things all the more overwhelming. The good news is that auto shipping is a convenient, simple, and safe option for transporting your car thousands of miles. If you choose to ship your car, you can easily schedule the pickup and delivery of your car and you can rest easy knowing that your car will be safely delivered to your new home. That said, you may be wondering if it’s worth the cost to ship your car. In most cases, shipping a car is significantly cheaper than buying a new one. There are several factors that will determine the exact price but the average cost to ship a sedan across the country is around $1200-$1500. When you consider the cost of purchasing a new car, it’s easy to see that shipping is far more cost-effective.

Option #2: Sell Your Car and Buy a New One

Your second option is to avoid the hassle of shipping your car altogether and selling it instead. Then, you can buy a new car when you arrive at your new location. In some circumstances, this might make sense if you were planning to upgrade your car anyway. This might also be a feasible option if you are in need of cash right away to help with moving expenses. Keep in mind, however, that you will need to figure out transportation until you purchase a new car.

Things to Consider:

Personal Plans for the Car: Is your current car older and in need of several repairs? If so, you might feel like the time is right to simply sell that car and purchase a new one. After all, it won’t make much sense to pay shipping costs for a car that you plan to turn around and sell in a couple of months anyway.

Convenience: There is no doubt that shipping a car is an easy and convenient way to transport your car across the country. Once you do your research and find a reputable shipping company, you simply call to schedule your pickup and delivery. You can even arrange to have your car picked up and delivered right to your door. This can be a much more convenient option than fussing with finding a buyer.

Cost: There is no doubt that shipping will be more cost-effective than selling your car and buying a new one. Given that the average cost to ship a car across the country is around $1500, you are almost certainly going to pay much more to buy a new one.

Current Availability: Given the current market conditions for new and used cars, you might have a very hard time finding a car. Inventory for both new and used cars is at an all-time low and prices are on the rise as a result. For this reason, it appears that shipping your car will be your best option.

The bottom line is that shipping or selling your car really depends on whether or not you have plans to upgrade your vehicle. Despite the cost to ship your car, you will still be saving money and you can make the process easier and more convenient by shipping your car. Unless your car is nearing the end of its life or you simply want to upgrade your vehicle, it almost always makes more sense to ship your car.

Should I Contact More Than One Company When Shipping a Car?

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Transporting your car from one part of the country to another is no small feat. That’s where shipping companies come in handy. They handle all of the logistics of getting your car from Point A to Point B so you can focus on other things, perhaps like moving. That said, your car is one of your most prized possessions so you don’t want to hand it over to just anyone. You want to be sure you are working with an auto shipping company that is reputable, trusted, and reliable. Furthermore, you want to be sure you are getting a fair price for the shipment. For all of these reasons, it is important to do your research and contact more than one shipping company before choosing one for the job. Here are just a few things to consider when looking for an auto transport company.

Reviews

First and foremost you want to check out various companies’ reviews before settling on one. You can browse reviews on the internet, check safety reports through the U.S. Department of Transportation, talk with the Better Business Bureau, and finally, speak with the company themselves and ask for references. The more you research reviews, the more likely you will find yourself worthing with a reputable shipping company.

Rates

As you would with many other services, it is important to shop around and compare prices. Call multiple car shipping companies and request a personalized quote based on your specific vehicle and needs. You also want to make sure this quote includes everything, so you aren’t surprised by unexpected fees and charges.

Compare Insurance

Auto transport companies are required by law to have up-to-date insurance. However, you should never assume they do. Ask for proof and check the details regarding the policy. Compare coverage between companies and find out how each one handles damage claims.

Check for Proper Licensing

While most auto shipping companies are who they say they are, there are unfortunately some scammers out there. Therefore, you want to ask around and make sure each company you speak with can provide you with U.S. Department of Transportation number (DOT) as well as a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) number. It is required by law that auto shippers be properly licensed, and these numbers can be used to check for verification and safety history.

Compare Services

Different car shipping companies might have different services available for shipping. For instance, some companies offer the option to choose between open and enclosed transport. Others may give you the option to choose between door-to-door pickup and delivery versus terminal-to-terminal. Be sure to speak with different companies to find the one that provides the exact services you need.

Can You Pack a Car That is Being Shipped

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If you are embarking on a long-distance move, you will likely be bringing plenty of things with you. If you plan on shipping your car, it might seem reasonable to pack it up with some of those belongings. However, is shipping a car with personal items possible? Let’s take a closer look at the answer to this common question.

The Department of Transportation hasn’t specifically outlawed shipping a car with personal items. Though it is technically legal, many auto shipping companies prefer that you don’t do it. Most companies have their own preferences for shipping a car with items inside so you will need to check with your specific shipping company. For those that do allow it, there are typically stipulations involved with shipping personal items.

What factors affect what I can bring?

Weight Limit: Auto carriers have strict guidelines with regard to weight. Since they are usually carrying multiple vehicles, you need to be mindful of the carrier’s overall weight. If the carrier is too heavy, the driver could be subject to fines. This is one reason many shipping companies do not allow for personal items to be shipped inside the vehicles.

Risk of Theft: In addition to weight regulations, many carriers are also conscious of the risk of theft. On an open carrier, people can see inside the vehicles. When the driver takes breaks, it’s possible that people will notice your personal items and valuables inside your vehicle and try to break-ins. This is yet another reason why packing personal items is usually frowned upon.

Even if an auto transport company does allow you to pack some personal items in your car, it may not be the best idea. For starters, as mentioned before, this puts you at a greater risk of theft. In addition, your items are likely to shift during transport which could result in damage both to the items and the interior of your vehicle. Finally, there is no guarantee that your car will arrive on time so you don’t want to be stuck without items that you need. For these reasons, it is best not to pack personal items inside your car during shipment.



What Should I Ask a Car Shipping Company?

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Hiring a car shipping company is a safe, easy, and convenient way to make a move less stressful. However, before handing your keys over to a shipping company, you want to be sure you are hiring the right company for the job. You also want to make sure you understand the process. How can you go about finding the right auto shipping company? Research is key in finding a reputable company that prides itself on exceptional customer service. Therefore, you need to know which specific questions to ask so you can find a company that aligns with your needs and budget. Here are some of the most important questions to ask before shipping your car.

1. Are you licensed and registered?

When researching auto transport companies, the first thing you want to do is verify that you are dealing with a company that is properly licensed and registered. It is required by law that auto transport companies be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. In doing so, they receive a DOT number that can be used for verification purposes and to check the company’s safety reports. In addition to a DOT number, interstate auto transport companies should also be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can access this information and check for verification by going to the FMCSA website.

2. What services do you offer?

Obviously, auto transport companies are in the business of shipping cars. However, there are several different shipping options available for customers to choose from. For example, some companies ship via open trailers only while others offer the option for open or enclosed transport. Some have the ability to ship non-operable vehicles while others do not. Finally, some offer door-to-door pickup and delivery while others only offer terminal-to-terminal services. Find out what specific services the company offers so you can decide which is right for you.

3. How much does it cost to ship my car?

The prices for car shipping will vary depending on a number of factors. Things like make, model, size of your vehicle, time of delivery, and method of delivery (open or enclosed carrier) can impact the cost of shipment. However, if you provide this information to the shipping company, they should be able to give you a free quote for shipping. Just be sure to make sure the quote that is provided includes everything so you aren’t faced with hidden fees and charges.

4. Are you insured?

Insurance is important when it comes to shipping a car. Although it is unlikely that your car will be damaged during transport, it is still a good idea to make sure your car is properly insured just in case. Most reputable car shipping companies will provide some insurance coverage, so you will need to find out those specific details to make sure it is adequate.

5. How long will it take to ship my car?

When it comes to car shipping timeframes, most companies will offer you a window for delivery. It is nearly impossible to determine an exact date, given that things like weather, traffic, maintenance problems, and other unforeseen circumstances are bound to happen. However, the shipping company should be able to give you an estimate. If you are in a time crunch, be sure to inquire about expedited shipping.

6. How do I prepare my car for shipment?

There are certain steps that need to be taken prior to shipment. These include cleaning your car, taking photographs of your vehicle, performing routine maintenance, removing exterior accessories and personal belongings, and leaving the gas tank only ¼ full. Be sure to ask the shipping company for specific instructions on preparing your vehicle for shipment.

7. What documents do I need?

You will need the right documentation to ship your vehicle so be sure to ask what documents are required. This will ensure that your transport goes smoothly and there are no delays with delivery.



Car Towing Vs. Shipping: Which to Choose

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When you are looking to transport your vehicle from one location to another, you have a couple of options. While driving may seem like the easiest choice, this isn’t always feasible. Luckily, there are other ways to transport your vehicle. First, you have the option of shipping your car with a reputable auto shipping company. Your second option would be to tow your vehicle. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each method so you can decide which is right for you.

Car Towing Methods

In simple terms, towing means having your car pulled behind another vehicle. You can do this by hiring a towing company or you can tow the vehicle yourself. Contacting a towing company is usually a reasonable option if you are transporting a car a short distance. Car towing companies tow dozens of vehicles each week so you can trust that they have the expertise to safely deliver your car. Furthermore, they are usually available around the clock so the availability can be incredibly convenient. Keep in mind, however, that towing rates are generally based on a per-mile rate so you might save money for short distances but this can end up being quite costly for a long-distance haul. It is not recommended to hire a towing company if you are towing your car across the country.

As for towing a car yourself, you can do so by renting a trailer or renting a moving truck with a tow dolly. This method is generally a bit cheaper than shipping, but there are several drawbacks that you must also consider. For starters, it could take several days to tow a car yourself, especially if you are towing it across the country. It can also be dangerous to travel across the country with a car in tow. You should also note that towing still puts additional wear and tear on your vehicle. Finally, you must have the proper equipment and knowledge of how to properly tow a vehicle. Therefore, these additional risks and extra time might not be worth the cost savings.

Shipping: What You Need to Know

Shipping a car is definitely the safest way to move a vehicle across the country. Many cars are perfectly fine making the journey on an open flatbed or double-deckers carrier but you also have the option of enclosed trailers for luxury or classic cars. It generally takes about 10-14 days to have your vehicle shipped across the country but you can enjoy the convenience of having a reputable auto transport company handle all of the logistics. Unlike towing a car, shipping a car is a stress-free and worry-free experience. As for the cost of shipping, it will depend on a number of factors but renting a trailer can actually cost almost as much as the full price of shipping your vehicle. Generally speaking, if the distance is long, it is much safer, easier, and more convenient to hire a reputable shipping company.

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Is Additional Car Shipping Insurance Necessary?

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If you are moving across the country, purchasing a car from another state, or attending a car show, sometimes driving is not an option. Therefore, you must rely on auto shipping to safely get your car where it needs to go. For most people, their car is one of their most valuable assets, so it only makes sense that they would want to protect it. Although damage during auto shipping is unlikely, there is still the possibility that something could happen while your vehicle is in transit. Things like weather, falling branches, and road debris always pose a slight risk. This is why it is important to inquire about insurance when shipping your car. Shipping insurance can help provide peace of mind during the shipment process. If you are preparing to ship your car in the near future, here are some important things to consider regarding car shipping insurance.

What Insurance is Provided by Shipping Companies?

Auto transport companies are required to provide basic liability coverage. This policy typically  covers damage to your vehicle that occurs during loading, transport, or unloading. Everything else, including any damage that is a result of your car’s condition prior to shipment (e.g, leaking oil, loose parts, etc.) is your responsibility. While basic liability insurance is required, the terms and amount of the coverage will depend on the particular auto transport company and the minimum requirements for that state. That is why it is important to inquire about the details of the insurance coverage prior to booking your shipment.

How Much Coverage is Enough?

Again, auto shipping companies are required to have coverage, but the exact amount of the policy varies by company. Therefore, you need to inquire about the specific policy to decide whether or not it is adequate for your vehicle. You may come to find that the coverage does not meet your expectations in covering the true value of your car. This can be especially true if you are shipping a luxury or antique car. If the company does not offer the coverage you need, you may need to choose a different shipping company or look into adding additional coverage on your own. In addition to checking with your car shipping company, you should also contact your own auto insurance provider. Depending on your policy, your car may be covered during auto transport.

Although auto transporters are legally responsible for carrying liability insurance per the United States Department of Transportation, there are unfortunately frauds out there. Always ask for proof of insurance as well as a detailed explanation of the policy coverage prior to shipping your car. At this point, it is up to you to determine whether or not additional coverage will be necessary.

Creative Ways to Shop for Your Next Car During the Vehicle Shortage

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Instead of driving up to a local dealership to find row upon row of new cars to choose from, you will probably be more likely to find a few new cars here and there along with a random assortment of used cars. Unfortunately, dealerships all across the country are dealing with inventory issues due to a variety of industry supply-chain problems and other production problems related to the Covid-19 pandemic. There is a high consumer demand along with a serious shortage of vehicles which is making it difficult for consumers to shop for a new vehicle. What, then, can consumers do to get a new vehicle? If you aren’t in a position where you can wait for a period of time, you might need to get creative and think outside the box in order to find a new car. Here are some helpful tips and expert advice for car shopping during the current vehicle shortage.

With less inventory available, you may not be able to find a suitable vehicle in your area. Therefore, you can increase your chances of finding a car by expanding your search radius. Thanks to today’s technological advances, you have the ability to shop for a car anywhere in the country. If you are open to purchasing a car in another state and having it shipped to you, you are increasing the odds that you will be able to find a car.

Buy Used

Although all cars are in short supply, used cars are in somewhat better supply than brand new ones. This is caused by a global chip shortage that is severely constraining the supply of new vehicles. Manufacturers are unable to get the tiny semiconductor chips that are needed to build new cars and this has brought the production of new vehicles across the nation to a halt. Thus, car dealers are left with empty lots as manufacturers await shipments of semiconductor chips. While this has certainly pushed up the demand for used vehicles, you will find that there is still a bigger selection of pre-owned vehicles available and they will come at a more affordable price.

Look for Cars on Facebook Marketplace

While you cannot actually purchase a car on Facebook Marketplace, you can search for one and make a connection with a seller. As a result of the current vehicle shortage, the used car market on Facebook Marketplace is hotter than ever. Due to lower inventory, people are looking to places other than dealerships to buy a car and Facebook Marketplace is a great resource. In fact, it has become one the most popular social media platforms to advertise used cars from private sellers.

Don’t Be Too Picky

In the pre-pandemic days you may have squabbled over the color, accessories, and additional options available on your vehicle but these days you don’t have room to be so picky. The pickier you are, the longer you will have to wait. If you are willing to be flexible on the specs of your car there’s a better chance you will get it much sooner.

Consider Other Vehicle Categories

Trucks and SUVs are definitely the most popular vehicles on the market. If you are willing to consider looking into another type of vehicle such as a sedan, you may have better luck finding more options.

Topics You Should Discuss with an Auto Transport Company Before Shipping a Car

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Whether you are purchasing a car online or moving across the country, shipping your car is usually much easier than driving it yourself. However, before handing over the keys, you want to make sure that you have hired the right company for the job. Furthermore, you want to be sure you fully understand the shipping process so that you can have the best experience possible. Given that most people don’t ship cars on a regular basis, you will likely have several questions about the industry and how auto transport works. Here are a few important topics you should discuss with an auto transport company before shipping your car.

What kind of car are you shipping?

One of the first topics you will want to discuss with an auto transport company is what kind of car you are looking to ship. The make, model, and size of your vehicle can help the shipping company get a better idea of what it will cost to ship your car. In addition, if you are shipping a luxury, antique, or classic car, you may want to consider additional options such as enclosed transport. Finally, you want to let the shipping company know whether or not your car is in working condition or if it’s inoperable, as this can change the equipment that will be needed to ship your car safely.

How much will it cost to ship your car?

This is likely one of the first questions you will have and any reputable car shipping company should be able to provide you with a quote. Keep in mind, however, that there are several factors that determine the cost of auto shipment. These include:

  • Size of your vehicle
  • Distance of shipment
  • Open or enclosed transport
  • Door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery
  • Time of year
  • Flexibility of shipping dates

When you receive your quote, be sure to ask if the quote includes everything. You want to make sure you understand the pricing clearly, because the last thing you want are unexpected fees and additional costs.

Are they properly licensed and registered?

You want to be sure that the company you are working with is in compliance with all necessary licensing requirements. Any company that transports vehicles is required to be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. They should be able to provide you with a valid U.S. DOT # for verification. In addition, they should also be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and should be able to provide you with their MC #. You can look this number up on the Motor Carrier website to check the company’s transport history.

What services do they offer?

You want to be sure and discuss what kinds of services the auto transport company offers. For example, some may have restrictions on the size or weight of vehicles. Some may not have the proper equipment to haul an inoperable vehicle. There are also other specific services such as open or enclosed transport, as well as door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal services. You want to inquire about all of these services so you can find an auto transport company that best fits your needs.

Are they insured?

Insurance is a very important topic to discuss whenever you are handing over your vehicle for shipment. You want to make sure that the auto transport company you are working with offers adequate coverage for your vehicle. If you don’t think it’s sufficient, ask about increasing the coverage.

How long will shipping take?

There is no guarantee in the auto shipping industry and this might vary from one company to another. However, they should be able to provide you with an estimated delivery time. Just keep in mind that things like weather, road conditions, traffic, and mechanical problems can arise and affect your delivery time.

What are the payment arrangements?

Be sure to inquire about what payment methods are accepted, and ask about a deposit. Many auto shipping companies will ask customers to pay a deposit or partial payment when the shipment is scheduled, but rarely would you be asked to pay in full. Be sure you understand all of the terms and conditions of your contract so you aren’t hit with any surprise bills.

What documents will you need for shipment?

In most cases, auto transport companies will require title, registration, and insurance information in addition to a photo ID. They need proof that the car you are shipping actually belongs to you. That said, be sure to clarify exactly what documents are necessary so you have everything ready and won’t delay shipment.

How do you prepare your car for shipment?

Though the process of shipping is pretty straightforward, there are a few things you will need to do to ensure your vehicle is properly prepared for shipment. As the owner of the vehicle, it is your responsibility to make sure that your vehicle is prepared for shipment so be sure and ask what you need to do prior to dropping off your vehicle.