The Ultimate Guide to Auto Shipping: What You Need to Know

By The Car Carriage

When it comes to relocating your vehicle across long distances, auto shipping services provide a convenient and often cost-effective solution. Whether you’re moving across the country, purchasing a vehicle from out of state, or need to transport a classic car to a show, understanding the ins and outs of auto shipping can save you time, money, and stress.

Why Consider Auto Shipping?

Many vehicle owners initially consider driving their car to its new destination. However, auto shipping offers several advantages:

Reduced Wear and Tear: Long-distance driving adds significant mileage and wear to your vehicle.
Time Savings: Instead of spending days on the road, you can fly to your destination while your car is in transit.
Cost Efficiency: When factoring in gas, lodging, meals, and potential time off work, shipping can be more economical than driving yourself.
Safety: Avoid road hazards, bad weather, and driver fatigue.

Types of Auto Transport Services

Not all auto shipping is created equal. The primary options include:

Open Transport

The most common and affordable option involves shipping your vehicle on an open-air carrier that typically holds 7-10 vehicles. While your car will be exposed to the elements, this method is safe and reliable for most standard vehicles.

Enclosed Transport

For luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles, enclosed transport offers additional protection from weather and road debris. This premium service comes at a higher cost—typically 30-50% more than open transport.

Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal

Door-to-door service brings the carrier as close to your specified locations as possible, while terminal-to-terminal requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated facilities. The former offers convenience, while the latter may save you money.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping

Before handing over your keys, take these important preparation steps:

Clean your vehicle: A thorough wash makes it easier to note any existing damage.
Document the condition: Take dated photos of all sides of your vehicle.
Remove personal items: Most companies prohibit personal belongings during transport.
Maintain about a quarter tank of gas: Enough to drive on and off the carrier, but not so much as to add unnecessary weight.
Disable alarm systems: This prevents battery drain and disruptions during transport.
Check for leaks: Address any fluid leaks before shipping.

Understanding Costs and Timing

Several factors influence the cost of auto shipping:

Distance: Longer routes cost more but often have better per-mile rates.
Vehicle size and weight: Larger, heavier vehicles cost more to ship.
Transport type: Enclosed shipping costs more than open transport.
Route popularity: High-demand routes may be more economical than remote destinations.
Seasonality: Summer months and January typically see higher prices due to increased demand.

As for timing, cross-country shipping typically takes 1-2 weeks, while shorter distances might require just a few days. Always build in buffer time when planning around auto shipping.

Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company

With numerous companies offering auto shipping services, consider these factors when making your selection:

Licensing and insurance: Verify the company has a USDOT number and adequate cargo insurance.
Reviews and reputation: Check multiple review platforms for consistent feedback.
Transparent pricing: Be wary of unusually low quotes or significant deposits.
Clear communication: The company should be responsive and provide tracking information.
Experience with your vehicle type: Especially important for specialty vehicles.

What to Expect on Delivery Day

When your vehicle arrives at its destination:

Inspect thoroughly: Check for any damage that wasn’t present before shipping.
Note discrepancies: Document any issues on the bill of lading before signing.
Ask questions: If anything seems off, address it immediately with the driver.
Pay any remaining balance: Most companies require payment upon delivery.

The Value of Professional Auto Shipping

While DIY driving may seem like the simplest solution, professional auto shipping offers peace of mind that your vehicle will arrive safely without adding miles to the odometer or stress to your move. By understanding the options available and choosing a reputable company, you can ensure your vehicle transport experience is smooth and worry-free.

For your next vehicle relocation, consider the convenience, safety, and potential cost savings of professional auto shipping services. Your vehicle—and your schedule—will thank you.