Shipping
a vehicle is a logistical issue many people face when they move to a new state.
The most convenient solution is hiring a car shipping service. However, with so
many options on the market, it might be challenging to choose the right one.
You might find all the features and plans confusing, such as open and closed
carrier plans and various pricing options.
This
guide will tell you all you need to know about state-to-state car shipping
services and how to choose the right one for you.
Taking Quotes From Various Transportation Services
The
first step in selecting an adequate transportation service would be to start
taking quotes from multiple services. This will give you a general price range
for transporting your vehicle, so you'll know how to budget. The price
difference between these transportation services shouldn't vary by a wide
margin. You can eliminate any options on your list that are vastly more
expensive than the rest. On the other hand, suspiciously cheap services can
indicate poor quality and even fraudulent businesses.
As
a rule of thumb, list five car transportation companies offering a similar
price range before narrowing down the list. One place to start is A-1 Auto Transport interstate car shipping.
It's a highly reputable car shipping service that delivers your car punctually
and securely.
A Glance
at Your Car Transportation Service Options
The
good news is that most companies will easily be able to transport your car from
state to state as opposed to overseas and international shipping, which can be
slightly harder to find. But your service plan decisions don't end there. Let's
take a look at the three main options most car transportation companies offer:
· Transportation
on an open carrier. This is the most basic transportation option companies will
offer you. The company moves the vehicle on an open trailer. It's easy to do,
convenient, fast, and cost-effective. However, accidents can sometimes happen,
and the open carrier exposes your vehicle to the elements, debris, and
potential road hazards. If you just want your car transported quickly, an open
carrier is the best way.
· Transportation
in a closed carrier. A closed carrier offers more safety and protection for
your vehicle. It might take a little longer, but it eliminates the risk of your
car being damaged or scratched by unfavorable weather conditions or road
hazards. Suppose you're transporting a luxury car, an antique, or a high-value
vehicle. In that case, the closed carrier will give you peace of mind.
· Door-to-door
transportation. This is a service option that is all about your convenience.
Typically, you'd need to pick up your vehicle at a designated location, such as
a terminal, for open and closed carriers. However, the door-to-door option lets
you determine exactly where your car is delivered. This saves you planning and
arranging transportation to a location some distance from your new home.
The
options above are the most common plans and services. However, car
transportation companies will frequently offer other plans, such as:
· Expedited
shipments. If you're in a big rush, look for a transportation company with an
expedited service. This will ensure your vehicle gets to your desired
destination for time-sensitive events.
· Tracking.
If you're especially concerned about your car, you may want to choose a service
with tracking options. You'll receive real-time updates on your shipment's
status and progress. It's an option for those who value transparency during
transportation.
It's
essential to check if the transportation companies you received quotes from
offer the specific services you need. If you're unsure which plan to choose,
you can always ask customer service representatives. You can also ask the
question using Blurtit – a questions and answers community where you can connect
with others and ask them about virtually any topic, including their experience
with car transportation services.
Other
Considerations While Choosing a Car Shipment Company
After
narrowing the companies down based on quotes and services, there are a few
other things you'll want to keep in mind before making your final decision.
These include:
·
The right licenses and insurance. Make sure the
company has the appropriate permits and complies with regulations.
Likewise, you'll want to inquire about insurance to protect your car in the
off-chance of damage.
· Experience
in the industry and reputation. All car service companies claim to offer
quality results in a short time frame. However, opt for a company with more
experience and favorable reviews. Users will often detail what they liked or
didn't like about the service, such as punctuality, quality, safety, and
professionalism.
Getting
Your Car Ready for Shipment Across the State
Once
you've chosen the best car transportation company for your needs, you'll want
to ensure your car is ready to go on the journey. There are many little things
to do for optimal conditions. Preparing your car helps the process go smoothly
and minimizes the risk of damage or other challenges.
· Do
a routine maintenance check before shipping. You'll want your car in running
condition when delivering it to the transport company. Check the tire pressure,
oil, and the battery so there won't be trouble driving it to the carrier.
· Inspect
the condition of your car and take pictures. Make sure you have some recorded
evidence of your vehicle's condition. This will allow you to differentiate
between old bumps, scratches, and dents and new ones if your car is damaged
during transportation.
· Remove
your personal items. It's not likely that anybody will steal anything from your
vehicle. But you should still take out valuable items in case of damage. Though
it might not be noticeable, it also takes some weight off your car, making
shipment easier. This is especially true if you're transporting a pickup truck
with items loaded in the bed.
· Refrain
from filling up the gas tank. A full gas tank will make your car heavier than
it needs to be, adding to the weight and putting unnecessary strain on the
shipment process. A quarter to about half a tank is a good rule of thumb.
sure the company has directions to follow, and you'll be able to transport your
car without any issues.