Each year, 40 million people move. This means that 13% Americans must solve their vehicle transportation problems each year. Local moves are easy enough. But what about big moves?
It is not possible to drive your car everywhere. You should instead look for vehicle transportation services. This comprehensive guide will help you learn more about how to transport your vehicle.
Vehicle Transport Methods
There are a number of options available when shipping your vehicle. You can opt to transport the vehicle yourself. This is usually the best option if you have a tight budget. If you decide to go on a road trip, you should be aware that you will need to pay for gas and lodging.
Many transport companies will ship your vehicle to you if road-tripping is not for you. You may have seen trucks with stacked cars parked together if you’ve ever driven along the highway. These trucks may transport car dealers’ stock but others also have personal vehicles for customers.
Some shipping companies also have boats that can transport vehicles if you move across water bodies. You can also add your vehicle to the boat manifest and bring it with you. This option is dependent on the ship’s size and the services they provide.
There are a few things you need to consider before you decide on a shipping method. When shipping a vehicle, the most common question is “How much will it cost me?” However, it’s also important to ask “How much will this inconvenience you?”
Towing a car or driving across the country is difficult. You will need to stop for gas and plan your route. Also, consider the car’s depreciating value as it gets more mileage. It may be cheaper to ship the car and book a flight, despite the inconvenience and cost.
The Best Way to Ship a Car
There are many options available once you’ve decided to ship your vehicle. Open transport is available for your car, just like the trucks. These are the best car shipping options that you can afford.
Open carriers are a good option if you have a tight budget. These services will take great care to get your car to its destination. You will be required to sign a waiver so that they don’t hold you responsible for any damage caused by the elements.
Although it’s rare, vehicles in open transport can be damaged by hail, birds and other natural hazards. You have options for insurance, even though the company will not take financial responsibility.
If your budget allows for it, covered transport can be used to keep your vehicle safe. Covered transport is more expensive because they can only transport one vehicle at a time. However, many customers find the extra security to be worth it.
Covered transport will pick up your vehicle from you and place it in a trailer. This method protects your vehicle from the elements and leaves you with less to worry about. However, experts agree that this is the best way to ship your car.
Do You Need Car Transport Insurance?
You will need to decide if you should purchase insurance when you book your vehicle transportation. Although home, auto and medical insurance seem obvious to most people, temporary insurance is often a concern. We often skip purchasing insurance for travel, rental cars, and vehicle transportation.
Because your car is only in transit for so little time, major damage is less likely. We understand that you may not want to take the risk if you are strapped for cash. However, insurance is the best way to protect your vehicle.
There are some other factors that you should consider if you’re still not sure if the risk is worth it. What policies are available? You could consider looking elsewhere to find a more affordable policy instead of purchasing the one offered by the transport company.
You should also consider what coverage you have for your vehicle. You may be able skip purchasing additional insurance if your vehicle transport insurance covers damage.
The final decision is yours and will be based on the vehicle’s value, condition and where it’s going. Remember that insurance policies for vehicle damage do not cover the shipping company or shipper. To understand the extent of liability, read your transport contract.
Although insurance is not always required, it can be very helpful for shipping expensive vehicles. Before you sign on the dotted-line, be sure to understand what coverage you have.
What Does Shipping Cost for a Vehicle?
The vehicle shipping business has a unique feature: it is nearly impossible to give precise numbers. Every shipment is unique because trucking companies generally don’t charge an hourly rate for certain distances.
Prices tend to be lower for companies that have higher capacities and can tow more trucks per truck. Companies that have their own shipping depots tend to offer lower prices than those that pick up. It can be hard to estimate the cost of shipping vehicles because of all the variables involved.
Prices are affected by vehicle size, weight and restrictions, as well as delivery options and volume. Shipping within a state can cost $500, while shipping across the country may cost $1,000 or more. Use an online vehicle transport calculator to get a better estimate of the cost.
Get a quote for your vehicle transport today!
How can you choose the best method for you and your vehicle transportation needs with all these options? Nexus Auto Transport is here to help you get a quote on your vehicle transport.
We have been helping customers find affordable and customized auto transport solutions for over a decade. We are proud of our low prices, dedication to customers, and industry excellence. Get a quote today by contacting us!
