It may be surprising to many, but shipping a car requires considerable effort, and its pricing can be heavily influenced by multiple factors. Give a click for car shipping if you are moving, buying one over the internet, or relocating due to work. Knowing some of the relevant factors can be beneficial in reducing your decisions and costs. This article will analyze the primary factors that affect shipping automobile rates and how you can save money while preserving the safety of your automobile during its shipping.
Distance and Route
Shipping a vehicle over long distances requires more effort than shorter routes. As you may expect, the distance that needs to be covered has a relevance to factors determining car shipping rates. Fuel prices, labor, and vehicle maintenance make up some of the crucial factors influencing the transportation company’s spending. Place of origin is also important. Let’s say a certain car shipped from California to New York will definitely be getting spendier then shipping one from California to Nevada.
Routing Considerations
The route taken will have an impact on the price to be paid. In the case where a vehicle is to be shipped to a remote location, or an area with a limited number of carriers, the shipping costs will be more expensive. As an example, it may be more expensive to ship to rural areas compared to urban areas, where a lot of carriers service.
Vehicle Class
The vehicle being shipped is another very important aspect that is likely going to affect the cost of shipping a car. Larger vehicles like SUVs, trucks and vans are likely, and in most cases do cost more to ship, compared to smaller vehicles such as sedans and hatchbacks. The reason behind this is that larger vehicles take up more space on the carrier, which translates into a higher shipping cost.
Luxury and Exotic Automobiles
If the case involves a luxury or an exotic car, be ready to pay more high price due to the additional care and special equipment that is needed. The expenditure will further increase because the vehicle may require enclosed transport to minimize exposure to various elements and damage during transit, which provides added protection. The expense of enclosing transport adds to the overall charge. It becomes further expensive to ship highly subsidized cars because special insurance and branded handling is usual necessitated.
Types of Transportation: Open vs. Enclosed
The transport method you opt for can vary the cost as well. Open transport is the most widely used and low cost method of car shipping whereby the vehicle is placed on an open carrier truck and is exposed to everything during transit. It best suits standard vehicles that are not expensive and is cost effective.
In contrast, enclosed transport entails shipping your car in a fully enclosed covered truck which protects it from weather, debris, and even the rough roads. This is perfect for luxurious, classic or exotic cars but is more expensive due to the added protection and the specialized equipment that is used.
Open Transport vs. Enclosed Transport
Although enclosed transport may be costlier, it definitely calms the nerves of those with high value vehicles. If your vehicle does not need too much protection and cost is your main concern, open transport should be the way to go. There always needs to be a balance between the protection needed and the budget when making a decision.
Pickup and Delivery Locations
Pickup and delivery convenience adds another dimension in determining the price of car shipping services. Typically, door-to-door service where the carrier retrieves the vehicle from your location and delivers it exactly where you want is more costly than terminal-to-terminal servicing in which you surrender your vehicle to the carrier and collect it at designated terminals.
Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
You save money with terminal-to-terminal shipping because of reduced time spent in traffic, however, you must bring your vehicle to a designated terminal in the middle of the trip and collect it at another terminal which is not always practical. Choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping means also having to check the closest terminal to the vehicle drop off and collection points.
Seasonal Trends and Demand
Your region determines the price range set for shipping a car. Summer enjoys a noticeable increase in demand for car shipping since people sell and move more often in this period. More buyers’ results in increased movement, therefore transport services become pricier. Additionally, certain routes especially those heading towards high migration areas, tourist spots, so vacation spots also witness spikes in demand.
Off-Season Shipping
In order to save on shipment prices, try scheduling your shipment during the off- period which is considered fall and winter. These merchants tend to charge lower prices since there is little demand during this season. Keep in mind, however, that the conditions in winter can delay shipping or make it less desirable such as freezing temperatures during the shipment’s destination.
Insurance and Other Services
When transporting a car, most companies offer a basic warranty of liability insurance which protects the vehicle in the event of damage while in transit. If a car is rare, classic or of high value, then additional insurance coverage may be needed. Extra protection can be offered throughout the entire transport. This option may increase the price of the shipment.
Furthermore, some car shipping companies may offer expedited shipping or guaranteed delivery by dates which may come at additional cost. If your vehicle needs to arrive on a specific date, these services are available, but at a premium.
How to Save on Car Shipping Cost
Although, shipping a car may seem expensive there are a few factors which can help save costs on car transport services:
– Book in advance – For peak seasons, make bookings in advance to secure better rates.
– Choose open transport – If extra protection is not needed, open transport is less expensive and offers a good rate.
– Compare quotes: Always make sure to receive quotes from different transport companies, as this ensures that you’re getting the best type of offer.
– Pickup and delivery flexibility: Saving money is an option, If you don’t mind traveling a bit further for pick up and drop off locations of a terminal-to-terminal service.
– Ship Off-Peak: If possible, ship your car on an off-season month.
Conclusion: Navigating Car Shipping Rates
The considerations that influence shipping rates should always be taken into account if you intend to make the best possible deal for car transport services. Shipping a car within the country borders or internationally will also require considering the distance, mode of transport, the vehicle features, and also the timing to ensure that the solution is the cheapest. Planning and meticulous research make the car transport process easy and affordable.
Want to get started? Call us at Car Transport for a free quote which does not obligate you in anyway. Let us help you find the most affordable shipping solution for your vehicle.
