Ship Car to Another State: What are your Options?

In a fast-paced world, you should always be on the go, and this is where you may want to rely on your daily drive when it comes to vacations, job relocation, or any other reason. Booking a third-party broker or a direct shipping company can be one of your choices.

Whether you need your luxury or classic vehicle to be on time for a car show in another state or you just don’t want to add to its wear-and-tear, an auto transport company can definitely help you. Some of the best tips to know about are the following:

1. Learn More about the Kind of Company that’s Available

Brokerage companies are going to call a lot of transport carriers, and they will be responsible for the entire trip. Meanwhile, you can also ship a car to another state with the help of trucking corporations or movers, where your automobile is towed on their moving trailers.

See the prices and know whether it’s cheaper to go directly to a carrier. The downside is that most of the time, these are the ones with fewer drivers and trucks available, so you might need to wait for their availability. Call a carrier, compare their schedules, and see which one is going to accommodate you the most.

You can also select the types of services that are suitable for your budget and needs. Open transport is often preferred by a lot of people because it’s cheaper and the costs are spread across multiple owners. However, your vehicle can be exposed to a lot of weather elements. Enclosed carriers may protect the paintwork of the car from debris and other hazards but know that they are going to cost around 40% to 50% compared to the open shipping option.

Door-to-door services will also bring the automobile closer to your preferred destination, so you won’t have to arrange for a commute. They can go to your workplace, but it’s going to cost more compared to port or terminal shipping. Going to a designated dock or ship port is often the case when you need your car while you’re in Hawaii or Alaska.

2. Driving the Car Yourself

If you’re feeling up for an adventure and have the time, you can always do the trip yourself because it can be a thrilling option. Not only do you get to see different landscapes along the way, but it also gives you more control over your vehicle’s transportation.

However, before you fasten your seatbelt and embark on this very long journey across cities, state lines, and oceans, you need to do a thorough assessment of whether your vehicle is in excellent condition for a long-distance drive. Check the tires, and brake fluids that you can know more about here: https://www.machinerylubrication.com/Read/30614/know-brake-fluids, and any other maintenance requirements beforehand

Plan your route and consider the total distance and the estimated travel time. You might also want to book your accommodations in advance and prepare to stay overnight at roadside inns so you can rest for a while. Get breaks and avoid long stretches of driving whenever possible.

Consider fuel costs as well and calculate how much gas will be required for the trip based on mileage and current prices. It’s also wise to think about tolls or road fees that may arise during your journey.

Keep in mind that driving long distances can be exhausting both physically and mentally, so prepare by packing snacks, water bottles, and entertainment options like music or audiobooks to keep yourself engaged during those hours behind the wheel.

Driving an automobile yourself can offer flexibility and a sense of independence when shipping across states. However, consider all aspects carefully before making this decision so that it aligns with both your needs and budget.

3. Using a Car Shipping Marketplace

If you’re looking for a convenient and cost-effective way to ship your car to another state, going into the marketplace for brokers or third-party providers can be an excellent option. These online platforms connect you with multiple auto transport companies, allowing you to compare prices and services easily.

One of the biggest advantages of using a marketplace is the ability to access a wide network of carriers. This means that regardless of where your destination is, there’s likely to be a transporter available who can accommodate your needs. Another thing is that these marketplaces often vet their carriers, ensuring that they are licensed and insured. See more information about insurance on this page.

Another benefit is the competitive pricing offered through these platforms. Since multiple companies are competing for your business, you may find more affordable rates compared to hiring one company directly. Additionally, some marketplaces offer additional perks, such as customer reviews and ratings, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.

Using a car shipping marketplace also provides flexibility in terms of delivery options. Whether you prefer door-to-door service or terminal-to-terminal pickup and drop-off locations, most marketplaces can cater to your preferences.