Moving to a new home in another state is exciting however also a stressful time. Planning and organization is the key to having it all work out. One significant decision you may face during this process is whether to drive the vehicle to your new home, or use a car shipping company.
Many agree if afforded the option, shipping a car can be a far more convenient and stress free option, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move. Fortunately auto shipping doesn’t break the bank, and often costs a lot less than movers.
Benefits of Using a Car Shipping Company
Car shipping companies specialize in transporting vehicles safely and efficiently across long distances. This service is particularly beneficial if you want to avoid the wear and tear of a long drive on your vehicle, save time for other moving tasks, or if you need to transport multiple vehicles.
Shipping a car isn’t crazy expensive either. According the folks and NX Auto Transport, most auto transport between a few states or 1000 miles is around $900. Not bad!
Using a professional car shipper can also reduce the stress and potential risks of driving through unfamiliar territories, dealing with unpredictable road conditions, or facing mechanical issues along the way.
Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company
When selecting a car shipping company, it's crucial to do thorough research to have proof of reliability and trustworthiness. Here are some tips to help you pick the right service:
Check Reviews and Ratings
Look at customer reviews and ratings on independent websites. Feedback from previous customers can provide insights into the company’s service quality and reliability. 95% of customers read reviews before buying a product or service. This is especially important with auto shipping companies.
Verify Licensing and Insurance
Make sure the company is licensed with the Department of Transportation and offers adequate insurance coverage. This will protect your vehicle in case of damage during transit.
Compare Quotes
Get quotes from multiple companies to find the best deal. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they might indicate hidden fees or lack of proper services.
Ask About Experience
Choose a company with experience in shipping the type of vehicle you own, especially if it's a luxury, antique, or specialized model.
Coordinating Car Shipping with Household Movers
While some movers offer to arrange auto shipping, it’s generally advisable to work directly with a specialized car shipping company. This is because household moving companies often partner with auto shippers for a commission, which may not guarantee you the best price or service. By dealing directly with the car shipper, you can ensure more transparent pricing and dedicated service.
Preparing Your Car for Shipping
Preparing your vehicle for transport is key to a smooth shipping process. Sometimes a little preparation goes a long way.
Clean Your Car
A clean car makes it easier to inspect for any damages that might occur during shipping. It’s more difficult to inspect the paint and find dings or dents on a car that is dirty.
Remove Personal Items
Take out all personal belongings and any loose items from the vehicle, as these are not usually covered by the shipper’s insurance.
Document the Vehicle’s Condition
Take photos and document any existing scratches or dents. This will be useful to verify if any damage occurs during transit.
Coordinating Delivery
Taking delivery a series of steps to be sure that the process goes smoothly and that your vehicle arrives in the condition it was shipped in.
Confirm the Delivery Date
Make sure you have a confirmed delivery date from the shipping company. This will allow you to plan accordingly and be available to receive your vehicle.
Clear the Delivery Area
Ensure that the delivery area, whether it's your driveway or a nearby accessible location, is clear and ready for the unloading of your vehicle.
Perform a Thorough Inspection
As soon as the vehicle arrives, inspect it carefully for any signs of damage. Compare the vehicle's condition against the condition report from before it was shipped.
Check for Visible Damage
Look for any new scratches, dents, or discrepancies. Check the car’s undercarriage, roof, and body.
Document Everything
Take detailed photos and notes of any damage. This documentation will be crucial if you need to file a claim with the auto shipping company.
Understand the Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is a legal document between you and the shipping company that also serves as a receipt for your vehicle’s transport. It should detail the condition of your car at both the pickup and delivery points.
Tip: Sign with Caution - Do not sign the bill of lading before inspecting your car. Signing the document typically indicates that you have received your vehicle in satisfactory condition.
Accept Delivery
Once you are satisfied with the condition of your vehicle, you can formally accept delivery. If there are issues, make sure they are noted on the bill of lading before signing.
If You Can’t Be There
If there’s a chance your car might arrive before you do, it's wise to ask your realtor to help coordinate the delivery. You can have them have your vehicle securely parked in your garage or driveway, safeguarding it until you arrive. It’s very important that whomever you choose to assist you follows the above instructions to avoid potential problems with your vehicle’s condition.
About Multiple Car Shipping
If you’re shipping more than one vehicle, look for companies that offer multi car discounts or specialized services for handling multiple cars. This can often be more cost effective and efficient than shipping them separately.
Conclusion
Congratulations on your new home! Moving states and managing the logistics of car and household goods transportation can be daunting. However, with the right car shipping company and a coordinated approach with your movers, real estate agent, and family or friends, the process can be seamless and stress free.
We hope this guide assists you in making informed decisions about shipping your car as you embark on this exciting new chapter of your life.
