How Much Does it Cost?

One of the first things people want to know before using a shipping company is how much it will cost. The truth is, there are a number of factors that will determine the actual cost of shipment. Some of these factors include the size of your vehicle, the distance of shipment, open or enclosed transport, location of pick-up and drop-off, time of year, and fuel prices. The best way to get an idea of cost is to shop around and ask for quotes based on your specific needs. 

You Need to Do Your Homework

Your car is a valuable asset so you don’t want to just hand it over to anybody. You need to do plenty of research to find a car shipping company that is reputable and reliable. For starters you need to make sure that the shipping company has the proper licensing, registration, and insurance. You also need to spend time reading reviews and checking the company’s safety record using the safer.fmcsa.dot.gov website. Finally, check with the Better Business Bureau as an added precaution to be sure you are dealing with a legitimate car shipping company. 

Never Base Your Decision on Price Alone

While it’s certainly understandable to want a good deal, it’s also important to remember that cheapest isn’t always the best. If a deal seems too good to be true, chances are you should follow your gut. You want to choose a company that offers competitive prices, but also provides excellent customer service and has a good track record. 

Open vs. Enclosed Transport

You will have two options when it comes to shipping your vehicle- open or enclosed transport. Open transport is the cheapest and most common method of shipment and it involves your vehicle being shipped on an open carrier. Keep in mind that your car is susceptible to the outdoor elements with open transport. If you are shipping a luxury, antique, or exotic car, you might need additional protection in which you could choose enclosed transport. Though this is a more expensive option, it provides maximum protection for your high end or classic cars. 

You Will Need to Prep Your Vehicle

There’s more to car shipping than simply handing over the keys. There are a few things you need to do in order to prep your vehicle for shipment. You will need to wash the exterior and document and dings, dents, or scratches. You will also need to top off all fluids and make sure there is no more ¼ tank of gas. You need to check the battery and tire pressure and take care of any mechanical issues. Finally, you need to remove all exterior accessories as well as any personal items from inside the vehicle. 

Understand that Delivery Dates are Not Guaranteed

It is nearly impossible to guarantee a delivery date with auto shipment. That’s because there are a number of variables that can impact shipment such as weather, traffic jams, road closures, or mechanical issues with the carrier. Remember to be flexible with shipping dates. 

Wash the Exterior

This may seem counterintuitive, given that your car will likely get dirty during transport, but it is a very important step in the preparation of your vehicle. A spotless exterior is necessary so you can easily see any scratches, dents, dings, or discoloration on your vehicle. Since dirt and dust can hide these marks, it is important that your car is clean for your visual inspection. 

Complete a Visual Inspection

Now that your car is clean, you can inspect it for any existing damage. Walk around your vehicle and make note of any scratches, dents, dings, paint marks, or any other damage. You should also take photographs of your vehicle to serve as proof of its condition prior to shipment. Though it is unlikely that your vehicle will get damaged during transport, you will still need a record of your vehicle's condition so you can note any new damage. 

Take Care of Any Necessary Maintenance

Before having your car shipped, you should take care of a few general maintenance tasks. These include:

• Checking the fluids in your vehicle (brake, coolant, oil, power steering fluid, washer)
• Check the battery to make sure it is fully charged
• Check for proper tire pressure
• Empty the gas tank to no more than ¼ full

Remove Exterior Accessories

You will want to remove any exterior accessories prior to shipment. This includes all removable parts such as bike racks, luggage racks, ski racks, retractable antennas or custom spoilers. These extras are more susceptible to damage so protect your car and your expensive accessories by removing them before shipment. 

Remove Personal Items

It is not recommended to pack items in your car when shipping it. Not only does this add weight to your car which could result in higher fees, but it also increases your risk of theft. For these reasons, most auto transport companies prohibit customers from shipping personal belongings inside their vehicle. Remove all personal items including charging cables, water bottles, GPS devices, sunglasses, personal paperwork, coins, any other junk.

When it comes to using a car transporter, the first thing on most people’s minds is how much it will cost. The truth is, there are a number of factors that can affect transport costs such as the distance of shipment, the type of vehicle, current fuel costs, and even time of year. While many of these factors are out of your control, there are things you can do to reduce costs. Consider the following tips for getting the best price on your car transport service. 

Ship During the Off-Season

If you aren’t in a hurry to have your car transported, waiting for an off-peak time can save you money. Car transporters that are shipping cars coast-to-coast are usually busiest between May-September, while transporting north to south is busiest during the fall and spring.  Since prices will be higher during these months, you can save yourself some money by transporting your car during a different time. 

Be Flexible with Shipping Dates

Most car transporters will allow you to choose pick-up and drop-off dates that work best for your schedule, but if you can be flexible with those dates, you might be able to save money. Inquire about less expensive options, because transporters might be able to deliver your car with another shipment that will be near your location at another time. The transporter may be able to give you a better price if the dates work better for them logistically. 

Choose Open Transport

If you aren’t worried about your car getting rained on or getting dirty from the road, you can reduce your costs by choosing open transport as opposed to enclosed transport. Enclosed transport can cost you significantly more, and is generally best for luxury, antique, or exotic cars. 

Use Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

Many car transporters have terminal yards in big cities where they can load and unload their haul. Using a terminal-to-terminal car transporter is usually a cheaper option than door-to-door transport. 

Shop Around for Quotes

Finally, do some research and shop around for the best price. If you are willing to be flexible, you may find that one transporter can work a better deal for you than another. Be careful, however, and don’t accept the lowest bid without doing your homework. You want to be sure you are working with a reputable transporter that has a solid reputation. 

More Options

As stated before, carriers only deal with their own personal fleet of trucks. This means they have to schedule pick up and delivery around their specific schedule. If they don’t have a truck in your area, you could be waiting quite a while for shipping, not to mention it could cost you more since they will have to send a truck to pick up your vehicle. Brokers, on the other hand, work with tens of thousands of carriers, so they can easily find a truck in your area. Not only does this expedite the shipping process, but it saves you money because the truck is already in or near your area. 

Multiple Quotes

Since they work with so many different carriers, brokers are able to collect multiple quotes from multiple carriers in a short amount of time. Access to such a large number of carriers means you have the ability to compare prices and find the lowest quote. Keep in mind, however, that these initial quotes might be lower than the actual price. Be sure to provide as much information about your shipment as possible and ask the right questions in order to get the most accurate quote. 

Flexibility 

There is always the possibility that a carrier will break down or experience mechanical problems during transport. If you are working with a traditional carrier, you have to wait for them to send another truck, which could mean longer delays for you and additional costs. Brokers, on the other hand, can quickly make arrangements for your car to be picked up by another carrier close by which translates to faster delivery times and lower costs. 

What Factors Determine Shipping Costs?

There are many factors that affect how much it costs to ship a car. These include things like the make and model of your vehicle, the distance of shipment, pickup and delivery locations, open or enclosed transport, as well as the cost of fuel. It can also cost more to ship your car during peak months of the year. Although some of these factors are out of your control, you can save money if you are flexible with shipping dates, choose open transport, and choose terminal-to-terminal shipment. 

How Do Gas Prices Affect Costs?

It would be impossible to factor in the cost of car shipment without considering fuel costs. High fuel prices increase the operating costs for shippers, and this additional cost may be passed on to the consumer. Consumers should keep in mind that gas prices fluctuate, which means the cost of shipment can fluctuate slightly as well. In other words, changing gas prices may affect your initial quote. Also, consider the distance of your shipment. The further the shipping distance, the more it will cost to transport your vehicle. For the most accurate pricing, be sure to call close to your shipping date when you can get the most accurate price of gas at that time. 

1.Not All Car Shipping Companies are the Same

Just as you would shop around before hiring a professional painter or contractor, you also need to shop around before hiring a professional auto transport company. Like any other industry, there are multiple companies that offer the same services but not all them offer the same customer service. For starters, you want to verify that you are working with a reputable company that is properly licensed, registered, and insured. Next, you want to check plenty of reviews to be sure the company has a good reputation. Finally, you want to compare pricing, and be on the lookout for any company whose prices seem too good to be true. The last thing you want is to be scammed when looking for auto transport. 

2.There is Not a Set Price

One of the first things people want to know about auto transport is how much it costs. It is important to keep in mind that there are a number of factors that determine the cost of shipment. These factors include: the size of the vehicle, the distance of shipment, pick-up and drop-off locations, open or enclosed transport, time of year, and current fuel prices. Any reputable company should be able to provide you with a free quote when you provide them with this information. 

3. Delivery Times are Not Guaranteed

It is nearly impossible to guarantee exact delivery dates in the auto transport industry. That’s because there are a number of factors that are out of their control that can contribute to delays. These include weather delays, traffic jams, road closures, and possible mechanical issues with the carrier. Though most companies will do their best to accommodate your needs, it is important to be flexible and keep in mind that some things just cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, plan in advance and expect your delivery date to fluctuate by a few days.

4. There are Different Methods of Shipment

When you are choosing an auto transport company, there are a lot of things to consider, including what method of shipment you prefer. You will have the option of choosing between open or enclosed transport. Open carriers are the most popular and affordable option, although your car will be exposed to the outdoor elements. An enclosed carrier, on the other hand, is the most secure option, though it will come at an additional cost. It is most common for vintage, classic, exotic, or luxury cars that need to be kept in pristine condition. 

5. You Will Need to Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipment

It’s not quite as easy as simply handing over your keys. There are a few important steps you need to take to ensure a safe delivery of your vehicle. In order to prepare your vehicle for shipment, you will need to:

• Wash the exterior
• Take pictures and document and existing scratches, dings, dents, or other damage
• Top off all fluid including transmission, oil, brake, and washer fluids
• Check the battery and tire pressure
• Perform any necessary repairs or maintenance such as an oil change
• Leave no more than ¼ tank of gas in your vehicle
• Remove all exterior accessories including bike or luggage racks, retractable antenna, or customer spoiler
• Remove all personal items from inside the vehicle

Step 1: Decide what Type of Service You Need

When you begin researching shipping companies and gathering quotes, it will be helpful to know some basic information on the front end. For example, be prepared to provide the make, model, and year of your vehicle. Next, make sure you know the origin and destination of your shipment. You will also need to decide whether or not you plan to have door-to-door delivery or if you plan to pick up your vehicle from a terminal. Finally, you should consider whether or not you prefer open or enclosed transport. You will have different options when it comes to shipping your car and having an idea of what services you want will ensure you get the most accurate quote.

Step 2: Research Auto Transport Companies

One of the most important steps in the car shipping process is research. Your car is a valuable asset and you want to make sure you are handing it over to a reputable company. You can start by conducting an online search. Here are some things to look for in a car shipping company:
Industry knowledge: Look for a company with several years of experience in the car shipping industry,

Licensing, Registration, and Accreditation: You should only work with a company that has the proper licensing, registration, insurance, and accreditation ratings. It is required by law that auto transport companies have certain licenses and certifications in order to operate legally. Furthermore, it is advisable to look for a company that has good ratings with the Better Business Bureau.

Free Quote: Any reputable car shipping company should be able to provide you with a free quote. Be sure to ask if that quote includes all fees and additional charges.

Excellent reviews: Take the time to read reviews. You can read reviews online and also ask for reviews from family, friends, or colleagues who have shipped a car. You should also check reviews with the Better Business Bureau.

Exceptional customer service: From the first person you speak with to the driver who delivers your vehicle, you should expect professionalism and courtesy. They should be able and willing to answer any questions you may have and they should provide you with exceptional service.

Step 3: Compare Quotes and Select a Company

Narrow down your search to two or three auto transport companies. Compare quotes and services to decide which company is right for you. Be cautious, however, of choosing a company based on price alone. If one company offers a price that is significantly cheaper than the rest, this could be a red flag. Again, choose a company that meets all of the above criteria.

Step 4: Prep Your Vehicle

There are certain steps you will need to take to prepare your car for shipment:
-Wash your car

-take photos of your vehicle’s exterior and make a note of scratches, dents, or dings

-make sure there is no more than ¼ tank of gas in your car

-Make sure your battery is working and your tires are properly inflated

-remove any exterior accessories such as spoilers, luggage racks, bike racks, etc.

-remove all personal belongings from inside the vehicle

Step 5: Confirm Pickup and Delivery Details

The day before your scheduled pickup, call and confirm the exact time and location with your driver. Make sure you have all paperwork ready to go and be prepared to sign the Bill of Lading upon pickup of your vehicle. Follow these same instructions when it comes time for your vehicle to be delivered.

What are the main differences between open and enclosed auto transport?

Both open and enclosed transport are common methods for shipping a vehicle. Open transport typically refers to a two-level trailer that can haul multiple vehicles at once. As the name suggests, this type of trailer is open-air, meaning your vehicle will be exposed to the outdoor elements. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, refers to a fully enclosed trailer. Typically only a few cars can fit into an enclosed trailer and this type of trailer offers a higher degree of security and protection for your vehicle.

Pros and Cons of Open Transport

Pros: Open transport is by far the most common shipping method and is cheaper and faster than enclosed transport. Since this is a more popular option, there are more open-air carriers available, meaning you have more shipping options and it’s easier to book a preferred shipping and arrival time. In addition, open transport is cheaper, so this is a great way to save money on car shipping services.

Cons: Since the trailer is open-air, your vehicle will be exposed to the outdoor elements. Your vehicle is also susceptible to potential damage from road debris during transport. Though it is unlikely, there is also the possibility that vehicles on an open trailer are subject to theft.

Pros and Cons of Enclosed Transport

Pros: Your car will be shipped in a fully enclosed trailer, which will provide maximum protection against outdoor elements, road debris, and theft. This is a preferred option when shipping luxury, classic, or antique vehicles.

Cons: Since enclosed trailers can carry fewer cars, you can expect to pay more for shipping. Similarly, there are fewer enclosed carriers on the road, meaning you may have to wait longer for pickup and delivery.

How to choose the right option

There is no right or wrong answer as to whether you should choose open or enclosed transport. It really comes down to what kind of vehicle you are shipping. For owners of classic, exotic, antique, or luxury cars, enclosed transport is usually the best option. Open transport typically works just fine for everyone else. If you are trying to choose the best option, consider the value of your vehicle with the cost difference between the two choices. Take some time to weigh the pros and cons of each option and discuss any further concerns with your auto transport company.

Do Your Research

As with anything else these days, you should begin with an online search. There are a number of online dealerships and websites where you can search for the exact make and model that you want. Once you find a few vehicles that you are interested in, you can confirm fair pricing by looking at Edmunds of Kelley Blue Book to get a comprehensive estimate of the vehicle’s value. You can also run the vehicle’s VIN number through a website like CarFax or AutoCheck to get a better idea of the vehicle's history.

Start Negotiating

Once you have narrowed down your search to the vehicle you want, you should contact the seller. If your vehicle is at a dealership, you can contact their online sales department through the company website. If you are purchasing a used vehicle from a private seller, you will need to contact them directly. This is your chance to ask specific questions about the vehicle and negotiate the price.

Arrange for an Inspection

If you are buying a used car, it is important to have it inspected by a local mechanic before purchasing it. You can contact a local mechanic in the area and arrange a time for the inspection. Many mechanics will offer pre-purchase inspections for about $100, which is well worth the price when buying a car you haven’t seen in person. You can use the findings of the inspection to further negotiate and move forward with the deal or start your search over.

Shipping Your New Car

The next step in buying a car online is having it delivered to you after purchase. If the car you are purchasing is a long distance away, you can work with a reliable auto transport company to arrange for delivery. In most cases, having your new car shipped to you is faster, easier, and less stressful than picking it up yourself. Research professional auto transport companies and find a reliable company that meets your needs. There are even options available for any budget, including open or enclosed transport as well as door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal shipment. Once you have chosen a shipping company, simply schedule a window for pickup and make sure someone is present upon delivery. With convenient and affordable shipping options, buying a car online has never been easier.

Myth #1: Driving your car is cheaper than shipping it.

Many people would prefer the convenience of shipping their car but they assume it is more expensive than driving it themselves. However, this is simply not the case. When it comes to transporting a vehicle across the country, the driver has to factor in the cost of fuel, food, lodging, and possibly even vehicle maintenance, and repairs. In addition, it may also require the driver to take time off work, which could result in a loss of income.

FACT: When all things are considered, it is cheaper to utilize transportation services with a reputable car shipping company.

Myth #2: The price of shipping is based on distance alone.

While the distance you will be shipping your car certainly has an impact on the overall cost, it is NOT the sole determinant of price. In fact, it is one of many factors that is used to determine your quote.

FACT: The cost of car shipping depends on a number of factors including: the make, model, and size of the vehicle, the preferred pickup, and delivery dates, location of pickup and delivery, the time of year, the condition of the vehicle, the type of transport (open or enclosed carrier).

Myth #3: Shipping your car is risky.

You may be concerned about handing your vehicle over to a shipping company, and understandably so. Your vehicle is one of your most valuable assets so you want to be sure it does not get damaged. You might be considering the possibility of your vehicle being damaged at some point during the shipping process.

FACT: Car shipping is actually the safest option for transporting your vehicle a long distance. Driving your vehicle is much riskier, given that most people are not accustomed to driving long distances. Fatigue can easily set in, which can be very dangerous. Furthermore, your vehicle is subject to road and weather conditions as well as flying debris. All of these can potentially cause damage to your vehicle. Car shipping eliminates the need for driving, which immediately makes it your safest option. In addition, your car is securely fastened to the carrier and is not subjected to heavy mileage and wear and tear. In the unlikely event that weather conditions cause damage to your vehicle, your auto shipping company will have insurance to cover such damage. If you need extra precautions for a luxury or antique vehicle, you also have the option to ship your vehicle in an enclosed carrier for optimum protection.

Myth #4: Shop around for the lowest price.

Everyone can appreciate a good deal, but when it comes to shipping your car, cheaper doesn’t always mean better. While it is certainly recommended to shop around and compare quotes, you also want to look for companies with a good reputation.

FACT: If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t be fooled by spectacular deals as they are usually a scam. If one company provides a quote that is drastically different from everyone else, that is probably a red flag. Some car shipping companies will lure customers with cheap quotes only to hit them with fees and additional charges upon delivery of their vehicle.

Myth #5: You can only ship a car if it is in good condition.

Are you looking to ship a car that isn’t running properly? Not a problem! Most of your reputable car shipping companies can accommodate vehicles that are not in running condition.

FACT: You can absolutely ship a car that is not running. However, keep in mind that this is usually more expensive, as it requires special equipment to load, unload, and transport it.