Cars are essential for our daily lives, taking us wherever we need to go. But what happens when your car needs to travel a long distance, perhaps when you’re moving across the country? If you’re wondering, How Do You Ship Your Car?, you’re in the right place. Navigating the car shipping industry can seem complex, and concerns about vehicle damage or unexpected costs are common. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for shipping your car, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience from beginning to end.
Before we dive into the detailed steps, let’s address some frequently asked questions about the financial aspects of car shipping to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
Understanding Car Shipping Costs and Methods
How Much Does It Cost To Ship a Car?
The cost to ship a car is not fixed and can fluctuate significantly. Key factors influencing the price include the shipping distance, the time of year, and the specific locations of origin and destination. According to Forbes, you can expect to pay around $1,150 on average, but costs can range from as low as $550 to as high as $2,400. This averages out to roughly $1.15 per mile. Keep in mind that larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs may incur additional charges, typically between $150 to $250.
For a clearer understanding of how distance impacts car shipping costs, here are some examples based on mileage:
| Starting Point | Destination | Distance (Miles) | Estimated Cost per Mile | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | Michigan | 1,390 | $0.60-$1.70 | $834.00-$2,363.00 |
| Florida | California | 2,700 | $0.60-$1.70 | $1,620.00-$4,590.00 |
| Florida | New York | 1,100 | $0.60-$1.70 | $660.00-$1,870.00 |
Source: Forbes
What Is the Cheapest Way of Shipping Cars?
For budget-conscious shippers, the most economical approach is often to work directly with a local or regional car shipping company. Choosing an independent carrier might require more effort in research and preparation compared to using a broker, as highlighted by PODS. While brokers can simplify the process, be cautious of exceptionally low quotes, as they might lead to significantly higher final bills upon delivery.
Is It Cheaper To Ship a Car Or Drive It?
Driving your car to your new destination might initially seem cheaper than hiring a car shipping service. However, when you factor in all the associated costs of a long drive, such as gasoline, meals, overnight accommodations, and not to mention the wear and tear on your vehicle, as Forbes points out, shipping can become a surprisingly cost-effective and less stressful alternative.
9 Essential Steps for Smooth Car Shipping
Shipping your car doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With careful planning and the right information, you can ensure your vehicle arrives safely and on time. Follow these nine steps to navigate the car shipping process effectively.
- Determine Your Desired Vehicle Shipping Date Early.
- Research Your Car Shipping Options Thoroughly.
- Select a Reputable Car Shipping Company.
- Choose the Appropriate Vehicle Shipping Method.
- Secure a Solid Contract With Your Car Shipping Company.
- Verify Your Auto Shipper’s Insurance Coverage.
- Prepare and Document Your Vehicle’s Condition Before Shipping.
- Disable Alarms and Remove External Accessories Before Transport.
- Conduct a Detailed Inspection of Your Car Upon Delivery.
1. Determine Your Desired Vehicle Shipping Date Early On.
Sometimes, urgent situations necessitate immediate car shipping. Perhaps you’ve purchased a car from a distant state and need it quickly, or maybe you’re transporting a classic car for a last-minute exhibition. Life can be unpredictable.
However, whenever possible, planning ahead is crucial. Scheduling your car shipment as soon as you know you’ll need it is highly recommended. Besides distance and location, timing is a primary determinant of car shipping costs.
So, how far in advance should you book? While it can vary by company, a general guideline is to book your car shipment 2-4 weeks before your desired shipping date, according to USA Today. Attempting to book within two weeks of your desired date might result in limited availability or significantly higher fees.
Proper research simplifies the car shipping process.
2. Research Your Car Shipping Options Thoroughly.
Imagine you’re moving to Los Angeles and need to transport your vehicle across the country. Finding the right car shipping company requires careful research.
A simple Google search for “ship my car to L.A.” will yield numerous results. However, it’s important to understand that not all companies listed are the same. Many top search results might be brokers rather than the actual shipping carriers. Understanding the distinction is key.
Auto Transport Broker
An auto transport broker acts as an intermediary, connecting you with car carriers. Brokers contact various carriers and provide you with a shipping estimate based on the quotes they receive. They add a service fee on top of the carrier’s price, which is their revenue source. Brokers offer convenience and a wide network of carriers.
Auto Transport Carrier
Auto transport carriers are the companies that physically transport your vehicle. They operate their own trucks and handle the shipping directly. Carriers typically have a more limited range of service options compared to brokers and might be harder to find online. However, booking directly with a carrier means dealing directly with the company responsible for shipping your car.
So, which option is better for you? It depends on your priorities.
The main drawback of using a broker is the potential for price increases. Brokers might initially provide a lower quote to secure your business but could end up with a higher final bill than initially quoted, as MoveBuddha explains. On the other hand, dealing directly with a carrier might require more upfront research and potentially offer less flexible scheduling.
3. Select a Reputable Car Shipping Company.
Entrusting your valuable vehicle to a shipping company requires careful selection. Just as you wouldn’t hand over the keys to your prized possession to just anyone, choosing a reliable car shipper is crucial.
Once you’ve gathered quotes from different car shipping companies and brokers, thorough vetting is necessary. This helps avoid falling victim to scams, as highlighted by MarketWatch.
Here are key factors to consider when choosing a reputable car shipping company:
- Check Online Reviews: Explore platforms like Yelp and other review aggregators to gauge customer experiences with different companies.
- Seek Referrals: Inquire with your moving company or corporate relocation service. They often have established partnerships with trusted vehicle shipping companies.
- Beware of Large Upfront Deposits or Unusual Payment Methods: Legitimate companies typically require a small deposit or no deposit at all. Be wary of demands for large deposits or unconventional payment methods like wire transfers. Cash on delivery is a common and acceptable practice.
- Verify Company Registration: Ensure the company is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify their registration status and details on the FMCSA website by searching for the company name or their Motor Carrier (MC) number.
4. Choose the Appropriate Vehicle Shipping Method.
The two primary methods for shipping a vehicle are open transport and enclosed transport. The names are descriptive of the shipping style.
Open Vehicle Shipping
Open vehicle shipping is the standard and most common method. Your car is transported on an open carrier, which you’ve likely seen on highways – large semi-trucks carrying multiple cars stacked on two levels.
Enclosed Vehicle Shipping
Enclosed vehicle shipping means your car is transported inside a fully enclosed truck, providing greater protection from the elements and road debris. Enclosed carriers typically transport fewer vehicles and are more expensive than open transport.
For standard vehicle shipping, especially for long-distance moves, open transport is generally recommended for cost savings, as CNN Underscored points out. While your car will be exposed to weather conditions and road elements, the risk of damage is minimal, and it’s significantly more affordable. Enclosed transport is typically preferred for shipping classic, luxury, or sports cars where maximum protection is desired.
Always carefully review the fine print before signing a car shipping contract.
5. Secure a Solid Contract With Your Car Shipping Company.
Reputable car shipping companies will always provide a formal contract when you book your car for transport. While these contracts can be lengthy and contain legal jargon, understanding the key elements is essential before signing.
A car shipping contract should clearly outline:
- Total Quoted Price: The complete cost of shipping.
- Estimated Delivery Date: The expected timeframe for delivery.
- Cancellation Policies and Fees: Terms and costs associated with cancellation.
- Claims Procedures: The process for filing claims in case of damage.
- Insurance Information: Details of the shipping company’s insurance coverage.
If any aspect of the contract is unclear or unacceptable, contact the company for clarification or to request modifications before signing.
6. Verify Your Auto Shipper’s Insurance Coverage.
Insurance might be an afterthought during a move, but similar to moving insurance for your household goods, verifying your car shipper’s insurance is a worthwhile step.
Most car shipping companies offer insurance coverage ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. While this might suffice for many vehicles, it might not be adequate for newer or higher-value cars.
Pay attention to exclusions in the insurance policy. Many policies exclude “acts of God,” which typically encompass events like natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes).
If you require additional coverage, consult your existing auto insurance provider or inquire with the car carrier about supplemental insurance options.
A clean car facilitates thorough pre- and post-shipping inspections.
7. Prepare and Document Your Vehicle’s Condition Before Shipping.
While interior clutter is your personal matter, a clean car is essential for pre- and post-shipping inspections. These inspections are crucial for documenting the vehicle’s condition before transport and identifying any damage that may occur during shipping.
While a full car detailing isn’t mandatory, excessive dirt might lead some carriers to refuse transport.
Crucially, take detailed photographs of your vehicle from all angles before handing it over to the shipping company. This photographic evidence will be invaluable in case of any damage during transit or to document pre-existing conditions.
| Q: Can I put personal belongings in my car when shipping? A: Generally, no. Your car is not intended as a PODS storage container. However, some companies might allow a very limited amount of personal items (often around 100 pounds), allowing you to keep essential emergency items or personal effects in the trunk. Always confirm with your carrier beforehand. |
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8. Disable Alarms and Remove External Accessories Before Transport.
Those who frequently ship vehicles, such as military families, snowbirds, and car collectors, are well-versed in this step. Disabling your car alarm before shipping is essential.
Why? If your car alarm activates during transport, the driver is authorized to disable it by any means necessary. While extreme scenarios are rare, preventing any potential issues is always best.
Additionally, remove any aftermarket accessories that are not securely attached to your vehicle, such as spoiler kits, custom hoods, fender flares, and side skirts. These external modifications are vulnerable to damage during the shipping process.
9. Conduct a Detailed Inspection of Your Car Upon Delivery.
Upon vehicle pickup, ensure you conduct a thorough inspection and receive a bill of lading. This document confirms that the driver has taken possession of your vehicle for shipping.
Similarly, your presence is required at the delivery location to conduct a post-shipping inspection. This inspection involves carefully examining your vehicle for any damage that may have occurred during transport. Complete any remaining payments at this time. Thoroughly document any damage for potential future insurance claims.
| Q: How much should I tip a car transport driver? A: Tipping is not mandatory but is a thoughtful gesture. If your car is delivered on time, the driver communicated effectively, and the vehicle is in good condition, consider tipping $20 or more as a token of appreciation. |
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With a comprehensive understanding of how do you ship your car, you can confidently proceed with your vehicle transportation plans. Explore the PODS Blog for further resources on cross-country moving costs, professional packing tips, out-of-state moving checklists, and more. For a no-obligation moving quote, contact PODS directly at 877-350-7637.
Easton Smith is a freelance writer and researcher specializing in technology trends and the moving industry. He has extensive moving experience across the US, from coast to coast.
