If you can’t drive or tow your car for your move, you may need someone who can transport it for you. These car transportation companies are called car shipping or auto transport companies. Some full service moving companies provide car shipping services, but many do not. Car shipping is an essential service for individuals and businesses alike, especially when relocating or purchasing vehicles from distant locations. There are several methods available for shipping a car, each catering to different needs and preferences.
8 Most Popular Car Shipping Methods
There are 8 main methods for shipping your car which are outlined below.
Car haul
- Shipped on a car carrier trailer with other vehicles similar to the ones you see with new vehicles on the way to dealerships.
- Great for cross country shipping and long distance moving.
Personal Vehicle Shipping
- Very similar to Car Haul Shipping except the car will be transported by itself.
- Great for door to door delivery and large or odd shaped vehicle that may not fit on traditional car trailers.
Tip! When shopping for quotes be sure to ask about any fees and surcharges like fuel, mileage, storage, and failed delivery. Also, ask about insurance coverage.
Ocean Freight
- They take your car to a shipyard and placed in a shipping container to be transported overseas.
- Most popular method for shipping a car overseas.
Airfreight
- Your car is taken to a cargo airport and loaded onto a plane designed for cargo.
- Faster than ocean freight but also more expensive.
Expedited
- Same Car Haul or Personal Vehicle Shipping method, just faster.
- Great if you need your car delivered in a hurry. You will pay more for this service.
Driveaway
- A professional driver will pick up your car and drive it to your new location.
- Great for shorter distance moving as it will put miles and wear on your vehicle.
Did you know? It is customary to tip your vehicle driver. Depending on the length of the trip and the quality of the driver, tips can range from $20-$100 on average.
Enclosed Container Car Shipping
- Same as Car Haul and Personal Vehicle except that the car trailer will be an enclosed trailer.
- Great for keeping a sports or classic car clean and pristine during travel.
Home Delivery/Door to Door
- This service will provide a professional driver will pickup and drop off you car regardless of the way it is shipped.
- Very convenient because you don’t have to pickup or drop off your car.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car?
The cost to ship your car will vary depending on a number of factors including the type of shipping method you choose, the weight of the vehicle, and the distance being shipped. The median price to ship a car is around $1,000 dollars with lows in the $500 range and highs in the $2000’s. Make sure to get shipping quotes from multiple companies to find the best shipping price.
How to Prepare a Car for Shipping
Auto transport companies have things they recommended you do before shipping your car. These including cleaning and checking for any damages or mechanical problems. Use the list below to get started but check with your car shipping company for their specific instructions.
- Disable any alarm systems
- Clean out any personal items from the car.
- Remove any loose parts or accessories.
- Wash the car’s exterior so you can accurately record the condition.
- Check the vehicle for any mechanical problems and check the tires for damage or wear.
- Empty the gas tank to about a quarter full. A full tank can cause issues with loading and can add more weight cost to the shipping.
- Take pictures of the condition of the car in case of any incidents or you need to file an insurance claim.
The Most Affordable Way To Ship Your Car
The cheapest way to ship your car possible will depend on your situation. If you can tow it yourself behind a rental truck that’s always the cheapest. If you need the car shipped you’ll have to get multiple quotes from car shipping companies to assure you get the best rate. According to our research RiteWay Auto Transport has very affordable rates and offers a variety of auto shipping methods.
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