Shipping a car can seem complicated, especially if you have never used an auto transport service before. When moving to another state, or even a new city, whether for work or just simple relocation, buying another car can add to the stress.
Once you understand how auto transport works, everything becomes ten times easier. With a proper game plan and a trustworthy carrier, and with less stress.
Why Consider Professional Auto Transport?
Do you know how tedious driving your vehicle across the country can be? You will have to stop at multiple hotels/motels for a break. On top of that, you will need multiple breathers along the way with no guarantee of knowing if there are any rest areas on your route. Long-distance trips can take several days. You also have to account for fuel, meals, tolls, and the physical demands of spending hours behind the wheel.
Professional auto transport provides an alternative. A carrier can pick up your vehicle and transport it to your destination while you travel separately.
Choose the Right Type of Transport
The first step you need to take is involves choosing between open and enclosed transport. Before you do that, you need to know what these terms mean.
Open Transport
Open transport is the most common option. You must have seen open trailers carrying several cars at the same time. This is the more affordable method and is widely available. It works well for most everyday vehicles.
Enclosed Transport
Enclosed transport provides more/added protection. The vehicle is transported in a covered trailer. It’s mostly used to transport classic cars, luxury vehicles, exotic cars, and other vehicles that require extra protection from weather and road debris.
You should the method that suits you better, is within your budget, depends on the value of your vehicle, and the level of protection you want.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal Delivery
Another factor to consider is where you want the carrier to collect and deliver your vehicle.
Door-to-Door Transport
There is an option to have your vehicle delivered to your door. Door-to-door transport is an option that offers greater convenience. The carrier picks up and delivers the vehicle as close to your chosen addresses as practical. However, before opting for this option, you need to see if your new address can accommodate a large transport truck as some residential streets may not. In those cases, the driver may arrange a nearby accessible location.
Terminal-to-Terminal Transport
Another option would be terminal-to-terminal transport. The transport company drops your vehicle off at a designated facility and collects it from another terminal. It can be useful when direct access to your home is difficult.
Before booking, communicate to the transport company which option you want to opt for and in case of the latter, exactly where the pickup and delivery will take place.
Prepare Your Vehicle Before Pickup
Proper preparation of your vehicle before shipping can make the shipping process much smoother. Let us tell you how so.
Begin by cleaning the interior and the exterior of your vehicle. A clean exterior will make it easier for you to identify scratches, dents, or other existing damage pre- and post-delivery of your vehicle.
Remove personal belongings and unnecessary items from the vehicle. Transport companies usually have restrictions regarding items left inside the car, because loose belongings can move around during transportation. Transport companies do not want any unnecessary claims or inquiries. It makes the process hassle-free.
Furthermore, check the tire pressure of all four tires, battery, and fluid levels. In case your car does not run, tell the transport company in advance because the carrier may need special equipment to load and unload it.
Document the Vehicle's Condition
The next step in the process is vehicle documentation and inspection.
After you have cleaned your car inside out, take clear photographs from multiple angles and keep them until the vehicle reaches its destination. This will help you and the auto transport service compare the situation of your car pre and post-delivery.
Taking a few minutes to document everything can give you useful evidence if you need to raise a damage-related concern later.
Compare Auto Transport Companies
When choosing a transport company, your choice should not be based solely on the cheapest quote.
Keep in mind that prices can vary due to several factors. It can be more or less depending upon the distance, vehicle size, transport type, season, route demand, and whether the vehicle is operational.
What we suggest is conducting your research. Look at the company's experience, services, carrier network, insurance information, customer reviews, communication process, and then, at the end, the pricing structure.
After your research, if you still have trouble choosing or assessing the right carrier, opt for a company that will connect you with an auto transport service that best suits your needs. For example, companies such as A1 Auto Transport inc. provide multiple transport options and connect customers with vetted carriers for different vehicle shipping needs. Moreover, to top it off, they negotiate with an auto transport service on your behalf and get you a 20% discount on your services. Additionally, if you are a first-time customer, they get you an additional 5% discount.
Conclusion
Shipping a car does not have to be stressful. The key to having a hassle-free vehicle transportation is to plan ahead, choose the right transport method, prepare your vehicle properly, and work with a company that communicates clearly.
With all the right preparations and by choosing the right auto transport service, you can move your vehicle with ease while avoiding the stress and expense of a long-distance drive.