How to Get a Reasonable Price from a Car Transporter

There are times when you need to get your vehicle from one place to another and driving is just not possible. Perhaps you are moving across the country or you have just purchased a car online in another state. In these situations, you may find yourself in need of auto transport services. A car transporter can safely and efficiently ship your car anywhere in the country, saving you a great deal of time and hassle. 

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.