How Car Transport Services Operate: A Novice’s Overview

Car transport services allow vehicles to be moved without any additional wear and tear on them over long distances. Be it relocating, purchasing a vehicle online, or even sending a car to a family member, knowing how these services function can save you money and stress. This beginner’s guide covers the entire process of transportation, outlining major steps and detailing expectations from car shipping companies.

What is Car Transport Service?

Car Transport, also known as auto transport or vehicle shipping, refers to moving a vehicle from one point to another with the aid of a specialized carrier. These services are best suited for:

• Relocations interstate or overseas
• Purchasing vehicles online
• Seasonal moves for snowbirds
• Relocation of students in colleges
• Military PCS moves

Types of Car Transport Services

Open Transport

This is the most widely used and economical option. Your vehicle is transported using an open trailer, like what you see delivering cars to dealerships. This method is efficient and safe, although your car will be exposed to the weather and road debris.

Enclosed Transport

For classic, exotic, or vintage cars, enclosed transport is the best option as it offers protection from the elements. Although it’s pricier, it offers extra peace of mind when transporting high-value cars.

Door to Door vs Terminal to Terminal

In door-to-door servicing, the vehicle is retrieved and delivered as close to the specified addresses as possible.

In terminal-to-terminal shipping, the customer must drop off and retrieve the vehicle from specified depots. While this method may be cheaper, it may not be as convenient as door-to-door servicing.

Step-by-Step Process of Car Shipping

1. Get Quotes from Car Shipping Companies

Conduct adequate research and request quotes from multiple car shipping companies. Read up on their reviews and compare pricing, ensuring that the company is licensed and insured.

2. Choose a Shipping Option

Decide on the method of transport: open or enclosed. Also, select the pickup/delivery method: door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal. Weigh your preferences against your available budget.

3. Book the Service

Schedule your shipment once the provider is selected. Expect to provide details about the vehicle, pickup and delivery addresses, preferred dates, and possibly pay a deposit.

4. Getting Your Vehicle Ready

Follow the steps below to prepare your vehicle:

• Clean the vehicle to allow for a proper inspection.
• Clear the car of personal effects.
• Check for fluid leaks and the tires’ air pressure.
• Disarm alarms and remove toll tags.
• Keep the fuel gauge above ¼ of a tank.

5. Vehicle Inspection and Pickup

The carrier will perform an inspection of your vehicle and record any existing damage on a Bill of Lading. You and the driver will sign this document confirming the vehicle’s condition.

6. Vehicle Transport and Tracking

The vehicle is to be loaded and shipped to the assigned location. Most vehicle shipping companies offer tracking services or provide updates during transit.

7. Delivery and Final Inspection

Upon delivery, the carrier conducts another inspection and compares the vehicle against the initial condition report. If all is in order, you sign off and take back the car.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car?

Car shipping time varies based on:

• Distance
• Popularity of the route
• Weather conditions
• Season

An approximate breakdown is as follows:

• Within 500 miles: 1–2 days.
• Between 500 miles and 1,000: 2–4 days.
• Between 1,000 and 2,000 miles: 4–6 days.
• Coast to coast: 7-10 days.

Most carriers will provide an estimation upon request.

What Are The Expenses?

The following will impact the final price.

• The distance and stops along the way.
• The type of vehicle used.
• Whether the vehicle is transported openly or enclosed.
• Seasonal Demand.

Open transport will be cheaper than enclosed, which usually sit between 500 and 1500. Enclosed transport is 30–50% more expensive. Determining the Best Car Transport Company for Your Needs

Here’s what to look for in a car transport service:

• Licensing: Check if their FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) status is listed as active.
• Insurance: Request documentation of insurance and its limitations.
• Reviews: The Google and BBB pages, alongside specialized review boards, contain numerous reviews.
• Transparency: Unambiguous pricing, policies, and upfront deposits are crucial.

Common Myths About Car Shipping

“If I Drive My Car, It’s Cheaper”

The cost of driving yourself ends up adding up. Considering fuel, accommodation, meals, time, vehicle depreciation, and driving costs, it is nearly always cheaper to hire experts.

“All Transporters Are the Same.”

There is a very large gap between transport carriers. Reliability, quality, and customer service vary even further. This is an area where research pays off.

“I can stuff a bunch of stuff in my trunk.”

For a variety of liabilities, most carriers will not allow you to do this because of weight limits and insurance policies.

Last tip: Make Sure To Plan Ahead.

Booking in advance means keeping your favored pricing and dates. Waiting until the last moment means no bound availability and peak prices.

What If I Want To Move My Car Before Selling It?

While selling a car, you may need to relocate it—this is common when there is an out-of-state buyer. You can easily use a transport service to relocate your vehicle. This is very convenient when selling to out-of-state buyers or when selling in online marketplaces.

Where can I sell my car?

Sellez.com, cargurus.com, and kbb.com are just some online platforms where you can get instant offers or list your car. Be sure to account for transport logistics within your sales strategy.

Concluding Thoughts

Eliminating guesswork when using car transport services helps ensure a smooth experience. Whether moving, buying, or selling a vehicle, working with professional car shipping companies offers safety, convenience, and peace of mind.

Start comparing quotes today to make your next vehicle move easy!