The cost of auto transport depends on several factors: the type of vehicle you are shipping, how far you will be shipping it, whether the origin and destination locations are along main shipping routes, and the time of year. Check out last week’s post about car shipping costs to get an idea of average shipping prices throughout the U.S.
To find out what it would cost to ship your vehicle, you can request a quote from several auto transport companies . To provide a quote, they will need to know what type of vehicle you will be shipping, where you will be shipping, and your timeframe. In order to get comparable quotes, make sure that you request the same options with each. Here are the three most common shipping options that you will need to choose from:
For door-to-door shipping, the auto transporter picks up your vehicle from your home or office and delivers it to your final destination. For terminal-to-terminal shipping, you drop off your vehicle at a vehicle storage location where the auto hauler will pick up your car and deliver it to a terminal near your final destination. You may also choose door-to-terminal or terminal-to-door shipping options to meet your needs.
Open transport is the most common shipping option and is typically cheaper. Open transport means your car will be shipped on an open car carrier, such as one you have probably seen delivering cars to a car dealership. Enclosed transport means that your car is actually enclosed inside walls and a roof to protect it from dust and the elements. That is why enclosed transport is typically priced higher than open transport and is more commonly used for shipping antique or luxury vehicles.
Operable vehicles can be driven on their own power onto to the car carrier. Inoperable vehicles require special equipment to load them on and off the truck. It’s important to note that not all shipping companies have the equipment necessary to load and unload inoperable vehicles. If your car is inoperable, make sure the auto transport company knows that when you are requesting your quote.
By understanding your options, you’ll receive accurate shipping quotes and will be able to compare several to find the one that is best for you.
MoveCars.com is a comprehensive online directory of car shipping companies, including enclosed auto transport and international shipping companies. Even before you start looking for a car shipping company, you can find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about car moving, car shipping tips, and a glossary of auto transport terms.