Honolulu gets an average of 3,038 hours of sunshine annually, which is over 8 hours per day! This wonderful weather, plus the amazing beaches, make Hawaii a dream destination to visit.
If you’re lucky enough, you might get the opportunity to move to this state. But considering that it’s made up of separate islands, and that it’s separated from the contiguous states by the Pacific Ocean, moving logistics can be a challenge.
Are you moving to Hawaii and want to bring your car? Then read on for the different ways you can transport it. We’ll also discuss which are the best options.
Drive Your Car to the Port
This is one of the cheapest options since you won’t have to pay someone to take your vehicle all the way to the port.
However, it can put significant wear and tear on your car, especially if you live far away from the nearest port. If your car’s on the older side, then this can take a lot off its lifespan. And if it’s a classic or luxury vehicle, this decreases its value.
Also, you’d have to take time off of work to make the drive, plus pay for gas, food, lodging, and potential auto repairs if anything happens. In total, that’s a lot of time and money spent on transporting your vehicle.
So while this might seem like the most affordable route at first, take a step back to look at the whole picture. You’ll likely “spend” more money in the long run, and you’ll have more stress as well.
Hire an Auto Transport Company
Hiring an auto transport company is the other choice, and it’s a lot better for those relocating. When you transport a car to Hawaii, there are the added steps of getting it from your house to the port, then from the Hawaiian port to your new house.
A car shipping company can provide door-to-door services, so all you’ll need to worry about are pickup and dropoff. While you’ll have to pay for auto transport, as we’ve said above, you’ll save money since you can continue working and extra expenses are eliminated. You also avoid additional wear and tear on your precious car.
Here are your options for auto transport services.
Open Vehicle Transport
This is the more affordable choice out of the two. As the name suggests, open vehicle transport means the vehicles are loaded onto a wire frame that leaves them vulnerable to the elements. So it may not be the best option for classic and luxury cars that need more protection.
However, open vehicles have more drivers, are lighter, and can carry more vehicles at a time (7 to 10). All these factors mean that costs are lower for the company, and that’s passed onto you.
Open vehicle transport is also more convenient. Not only are there more truckers, but there are also more routes. So the chances of having your car picked up and delivered on your desired dates are higher.
Enclosed Vehicle Transport
Enclosed vehicle transport provides an extra layer of protection for your car. Not only is it shielded from inclement weather, but also from thieves, as they won’t know what’s inside the truck.
Another benefit of enclosed vehicle transport is the drivers here can move low ground clearance vehicles. Open haulers don’t have hydraulic lift gates, whereas enclosed haulers do. As a result, it may be necessary to pick enclosed shipping.
Do note that this service is more expensive since there are fewer drivers. In addition, the haulers are heavier, so they use more fuel. They also can’t carry as many vehicles (up to 7), so truckers have to make more trips.
GPS Tracking
Regardless of open or enclosed vehicle transport, you’ll receive GPS tracking if you opt for Luxy Transport. We know that people treasure their cars, so you may get anxious wondering where yours is.
We allow real-time GPS tracking so you can check on your vehicle whenever you want. Plus, you can contact the driver for updates if you wish.
Our aim is to give you peace of mind so you can focus on other important aspects of your move.
Important Things to Know
Before you commit to an auto transporter to transport a car to Hawaii, first collect quotes from several companies. Not only does this give you more flexibility, but it also shows if any are unscrupulous. As a rule of thumb, you should eliminate those on the cheapest and most expensive ends.
Once you’ve chosen a company, prep your vehicle by cleaning it, both on the outside and inside. This reduces its weight and also allows you to better see preexisting damage.
You should also remove all toll passes and disable the alarm system. Leave the gas tank at a quarter full to reduce the weight further.
You can then meet with the trucker on the designated date, fill out a Bill of Lading, then do the same in Hawaii when you receive your car.
Moving to Hawaii Doesn’t Have to Be Hard
Moving to Hawaii can be exciting yet nerve-wracking at the same time. Considering that you can’t move your possessions by land, relocating adds an element of uncertainty and anxiety. However, if you choose the right way to transport your car, it won’t be as difficult or stressful.
As you’ve seen from this article, driving your car to the nearest port is time-consuming and costly. The better choice is to use a professional car shipper. Pick the right company to ship your vehicle, and you’ll have much-deserved peace of mind.
Do you need car shipping services to Hawaii? Then request a quote from us now.