There are several situations where shipping a car can be a good solution: when you’re moving across the country, selling a car to somebody far away, or just avoiding the nightmare of driving long distances. But the costs associated with car shipping can fluctuate greatly based on a number of factors. The great news is that you can get that excellent price for transportation of your car. Here’s how:
Plan Ahead and Book Early
The best way to get a good price on car shipping is to plan ahead! Shippers often have a premium for last minute bookings because they charge more for tight schedules. However, the more options you have, the more likely you are to find a service that fits both your schedule and your budget, so the sooner you start researching and requesting quotes, the better.
Shipping companies typically give you better rates if they have more time to work out the logistics of your shipment. Giving them notice lets them work you into their existing routes, which reduces costs for them (and you). The trick is to be able to book your car transport a few weeks ahead of time to snag a lower rate. Be sure to take a peek at this link as well https://lifehacker.com/the-cheapest-way-to-ship-a-car-1849924771.
Get Multiple Quotes and Compare Prices
Don’t accept the first quote you get. To give you an adequate car shipping company to choose from, take the time to request quotes from various car shipping companies and review their pricing and services. Practically every other company will have a different pricing structure and may begin with different additional fees, due to fuel surcharges.
When comparing quotes, you want to be comparing apples to apples. But there are some companies that may have a lower upfront price but wind up charging you more later on.
And at all times, be sure to ask for a breakdown of all costs related to the shipping process, so you are not left surprised later. By gathering multiple quotes, you can identify the companies that offer the best value and even use the quotes to negotiate a better deal. Read more here.
Pick the Best Way to Ship Your Car
There are two basic options when it comes to auto shipping: open and enclosed. Most people choose open transport because it is the cheapest and most common choice. Your car will be shipped on an open trailer with other cars. Although it exposes your automobile to the weather, this technique is popular and safe for the majority of autos.
When you choose enclosed transport, on the other hand, your car is shipped in a covered van that protects it from weather, road debris, and possible damage. Enclosed transport is better for expensive, classic, or luxury cars, but it costs more than open transport most of the time.
If you have a normal car that doesn’t need extra safety, choosing open transport can save you a lot of money. But if your car is very expensive or easily damaged, enclosed transport might be worth the extra money.
Be Flexible with Your Shipping Dates
Being able to change your mind can help you get the best price on shipping your car. If you are flexible about when you want your car picked up and delivered, the shipping company will have more options to fit your car into their plan, which may lower the cost. Shipping companies will usually give you a better deal if you can plan your shipment for when they’re not as busy or along a route they already run.
Car shipping, for instance, costs more during busy times, like summer, when a lot of people are moving. If you can move your car when it’s not as popular, like during the off-season, you might be able to get a better deal. You might get a better deal on shipping if you let the company know that you’re flexible on the times. If you want the lowest price car shipping, you need to try this method.
Consider Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
There are two types of service that most car shipping companies offer: door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal. With door-to-door service, your car is picked up and dropped off at specific places, like your home or office. That being said, this is the easiest choice, but it costs more.
When you ship from one shipping center to another, you have to drop off and pick up your car at specific shipping terminals. Because the carrier doesn’t have to travel as far or for as long, this choice is usually cheaper. It can be a good deal to ship your things this way if you live close to one or are ready to drive to one.
Ship Multiple Cars at Once (If Possible)
If you are moving or selling more than one car, you might want to ship them all at the same time. Many companies that ship cars offer discounts for moving more than one car at the same time. This helps them make the most of their space and cut costs overall. This can be especially helpful if you’re moving with your family or if you’re a car shop moving a lot of cars.
When you get quotes for more than one car, make sure you ask about deals for buying in bulk. The discount may not seem like much, but if you move more than one car, it can add up and save you money in the long run.
Remove Personal Items from the Vehicle
Most companies that ship cars advise or even demand that you take all of your personal items out of the car before they ship it. This is not only for safety reasons, but also because extra weight can make shipping more expensive. Transporting a car will cost more if it is heavy.
Also, things inside the car can move around while you’re driving, which could damage your car or the things inside. Make sure your car is clean and empty of personal things before it is picked up for shipping to avoid extra fees or damage.
