Moving can be stressful enough without adding the worry of getting your car to your new home. This is where car transport services come in.
But with so many options, how do you choose the right company for your vehicle? Picking the right car transportation company can differentiate between a smooth move and a logistical nightmare.
You want a company with a proven track record of reliability, affordability, and excellent customer service. Luckily, you don’t need to spend hours scouring online forums for reviews.
This guide will cover everything you need, from understanding the different types of car shipping services to getting the best shipping quote.
Key Takeaways:
- Streamline Your Move: Car transportation services can significantly ease the stress of moving by ensuring your vehicle arrives safely at your new home.
- Methods for Car Transport: Open transport is cost-effective but exposes your car to the elements, while enclosed transport offers better protection at a higher cost.
- Factors Affecting Costs: Distance, vehicle size, shipping timeframe, and vehicle condition all influence the price of car transportation.
- Choosing a Trustworthy Company: Look for companies with FMCSA accreditation, good insurance coverage, positive reviews, and transparent quotes.
- Florida’s Driving Laws: New residents must register their vehicles within 10 days, have insurance, and stay informed about traffic conditions to navigate smoothly.
Methods for Car Transport
Picking the right method is about balancing your needs with your budget. Understanding the benefits of using car transportation services can help you make the best choice. Let’s break down the pros and cons of the most popular options.
Open Transport
Open transport is the workhorse of the car shipping world. It’s the most common and most affordable method of car transport. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open carrier, like those you see transporting new cars to dealerships.
Open transport does the job for most people but exposes your vehicle to the elements. Think rain, dust, and road debris – nothing major, but something to consider if you’re particularly worried about your car’s pristine paint job.
Enclosed Transport
If you’re looking for the VIP treatment for your prized possession – a classic car or a luxury model – enclosed transport is the way to go.
When comparing open vs enclosed car shipping, the enclosed auto transport provides extra protection from weather and road hazards, which many owners demand for peace of mind. It is a great option for luxury cars that need to be shipped.
Enclosed transport is like the first-class cabin of car shipping: your car travels in a dedicated enclosed trailer, shielded from prying eyes and the elements.
It costs more, but that often pales in comparison to the potential repair costs for even minor damage to a valuable vehicle. If you want to ship personal items with your vehicle, enclosed transport is the way to go.
Factors Affecting Car Transport Costs
Let’s get real: the price of car transportation isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Several factors determine how much you’ll pay to get your car from point A to point B.
Distance
This is a big one. This is why shipping your car from New York to Los Angeles will cost more than moving it across town.
Most auto transport companies use a per-mile rate, but longer distances often mean a lower cost per mile.
Vehicle Size
Just like airlines sometimes charge for extra luggage, larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks take up more space and require more resources to transport. As a result, they are slightly more expensive than compact cars.
Shipping Timeframe
Need your vehicle shipped quickly? Expedited shipping options, where available, usually cost a premium.
However, you could save some cash if you can be flexible with your pickup and delivery dates. It’s like finding a good travel deal: sometimes, a little flexibility unlocks great savings.
Vehicle Condition
A car that can’t roll, steer, and brake on its own will need special handling, often requiring a winch or other specialized equipment to get it on and off the transport truck, and that comes at a price. You can also use an auto transporter to get the job done.
Choosing a Trustworthy Auto Transport Broker
A reputable auto transport broker is your ally, connecting you with reliable car shippers and handling all the nitty-gritty details. When you partner with a company like Geyers Towing, known for its reliability, affordability, and exceptional customer service, you’re choosing more than just a car transport service; you’re opting for peace of mind.
Before choosing a company, you will want to get a car shipping quote.
Look for Accreditation and Insurance
The auto transport world can seem complicated. One way to help make decisions is to choose a fully licensed company with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier and Safety Administration).
A legitimate car shipping company will also have a Motor Carrier (MC) and USDOT numbers. This isn’t just bureaucratic red tape; it’s a crucial sign that you’re dealing with a legitimate business. Verify credentials on the FMCSA website to ensure everything checks out.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Don’t just take their word for it. Websites are great for showcasing the best, but hearing from others provides real-world insight into how these American auto shipping companies operate.
Do they have a good track record? Do their customer reviews show happy clients? A quick online review can reveal volumes about the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
Compare Quotes
Getting car shipping quotes from multiple companies isn’t just about snagging the lowest price; it’s about understanding what’s included and ensuring you’re getting value for your hard-earned cash. When comparing quotes, be sure you understand what’s covered and what’s not.
Don’t make a decision based solely on price. That super cheap quote might look enticing, but dig a little deeper. It could be from a less reputable auto transport company or have hidden fees.
Experience with Specific Vehicle Types
FAQs About Car Transport
What is the most cost-effective way to transport a car?
The most cost-effective way to transport a car is usually by open transport, where your vehicle is shipped on an open carrier along with other vehicles. While this option exposes your car to weather and road elements, it is considered safe for standard vehicles and cheaper than enclosed transport.
For additional savings, flexibility with your shipping dates and choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service can lower costs.
What is the cheapest company to ship your car?
Many factors affect car shipping costs, including distance, vehicle type, shipping method, and time of year. To find the cheapest company for your specific needs, you’ll need to gather quotes from several auto transport companies and compare their services and prices.
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive, as exploring your options can often lead to significant savings. Consider online marketplaces like Shiply to compare quotes from multiple reputable carriers conveniently.
Remember to factor in additional services, insurance coverage, and customer reviews when evaluating affordability beyond the base price.
How much does transporting a car in the US cost?
Car shipping costs in the US vary greatly depending on several factors, such as distance, vehicle size, shipping method (open or enclosed), time of year, and fuel prices.
On average, for an open carrier, expect to pay $0.50-$1.00 per mile for long distances (over 1,000 miles). The per-mile rate tends to be higher for short distances (under 200 miles). Enclosed transport typically costs 30%-50% more than open transport due to the added protection.
Obtaining multiple quotes tailored to your specific requirements will give you the most accurate estimate. Getting quotes from an auto transport broker might be the easiest option.
Is it cheaper to ship a car or drive?
Determining if shipping or driving is cheaper depends on the distance, your circumstances, and whether you’re moving a standard or specialized vehicle. Driving yourself incurs costs like gas, lodging, food, tolls, and possible wear and tear on your car.
In contrast, auto shipping involves transport fees, insurance, and potential pickup/delivery charges. For long distances, particularly over 1,000 miles, shipping often proves more cost-effective when considering hidden costs associated with driving. Additionally, if you own a valuable or specialized vehicle, factoring in potential damage and depreciation from a long drive further tips the scale in favor of car transport.
Using online car shipping calculators and comparing quotes can help you determine the most economical option for your situation.
Find Professional Car Transport at Geyers Towing
Navigating the world of car transport might seem overwhelming at first glance. It’s about more than just handing your keys over and hoping for the best. When you choose the right company to ship your car, you will have one less thing to worry about. Contact us today!
