When you need to move a car from point A to point B, the logical answer is to drive it. But what about when you send your kid to college in a different state? Or when you’re moving for a new job? Or when you buy a used car online?
In these situations, car shipping is a much better option compared to driving. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the process.
Open and Closed Shipping
When you think about car shipping, the first thought that comes to mind is luxury cars stacked on top of each other on a massive truck. That’s the mode most people are familiar with. It’s typical, it’s cheap, and it’s easy. But it has one downside.
Your vehicle will suffer from the weather conditions. So if you’ve got a cabriolet, it’s not the right choice. Learn more interesting info here https://techannouncer.com/embracing-freedom-the-advantages-of-open-air-auto-transport-with-state-to-state-towing/.
Old-timers, luxury automobiles, and cabriolets get transported with closed shipping. Instead of getting hit by debris or the elements, your vehicle will be in a completely covered trailer. Of course, it goes without saying that this is a more expensive option.
However, it gives you more peace of mind, especially if you have a high-value car. In both cases, vehicles will be safely fixed and driven by professionals. The only difference is the price and protection type.
Everything You Need to Know About the Costs
Now we get to the most important question. How much will it cost to ship? The answer varies based on a number of different factors.
First, it will depend upon whether you choose open or closed shipping. Then, there comes the mileage. Discover more on this page.
The greater the distance, the higher the cost. But that’s not all there is to it. Pricing varies based on the weight and size of the vehicle, and the time of year. Always ask if there are any discounts, especially if you want to ship multiple automobiles. The same thing goes if you’re a student or a member of the military.
Before you settle on a single company, do a few quick Google searches and call different vendors. Ask for a quote, and compare prices across comparisons. Remember to read the small print on their website to fully comprehend what’s included.
Some New York Car Movers ask you to drive your car to a terminal. Others come to your garage and pick it up from your yard. Ask if there are any hidden costs for faster service, fuel surcharges, and insurance.
Lastly, check out their reviews online. See what real people are saying, and start with the negative reviews first. You want to see how the company deals under pressure and what can happen in the worst case scenario. Then, work your way up to the 5 stars feedback and make your choice.
Prep Your Car for the Ride
During the shipping process, your car will be the passenger. And just like any passenger, it needs preparation. Before you hand over the keys, take out all your personal belongings and put them somewhere else.
Insurance policies don’t cover anything left in the car, and it’s best to leave the car empty. For example, if you leave your watch on a seat, there’s a chance for someone to break a window and steal it. Then, clean it inside and out.
When the car’s spotless, you can notice every scratch, dent, and damage. Pull out your phone and take some pictures before the company picks it up. Keep written documents to demonstrate the present condition, and send it away. If any damage happens on the road, you will use the pictures and the documents as proof.
Last but not least, leave the vehicle with a quarter of a tank full. This reduces the weight, and makes it cheaper to transport. Turn the alarm off, and hand over the keys.
What Happens After You Ship?
After everything is said and done, you need to arrange a pick up date and place. The latter can depend on the company. As we mentioned before, they can leave the car on a terminal, or bring it to a place of your choosing. Most companies have live tracking, so you’ll know where your vehicle is at all times.
When you get to the final destination, check for any damages that may have occurred while the car was in transit. If there’s a new dent or scratch, report it immediately. Although there are companies that have a grace period, it’s better to do it on the spot.
Conclusion
The next time you’re faced with transporting multiple cars, sending kids to college, or moving because of a job, you won’t have to be anxious.
There’s a service for everything, and car shipping will bring you peace of mind. Do some research beforehand, select the right firm, confirm the pricing, and hand over the keys.
