In 2020, nearly 18% of adults ages 20 to 29 moved. States like Utah, Nevada, and Texas are seeing some of the biggest growth during the pandemic.
If you have considered a move, you might wonder what you should do with your car. There are a few options. First, you could consider the costs of shipping your car.
Next, you might want to drive your car. While this isn’t ideal for long distances, it might be worth your while for shorter moves. Lastly, you can sell your car and repurchase a new one.
Unfortunately, high car prices might deter you from that last option. Luckily, we have a complete guide that will review why professional car shipping should be your number one choice, so keep reading on for more information!
What Is Professional Car Shipping?
Professionally transporting vehicles entails using a vehicle shipping service to move your vehicle from one city to another. There are two primary modes of car shipping:
- Enclosed transport
- Open transport
Open vehicle transport is cheaper and the easiest mode of transportation. You have likely seen these transport trucks on freeways with multiple cars bumper to bumper in the back. There is also more availability and routes available for open auto transport.
Enclosed transport is ideal if you are moving a vintage or luxury car. Some vehicle owners may also want to avoid the potential of their vehicles encountering environmental exposures. A few common occurrences during an open vehicle transport include:
- Dust
- Dirt
- Bad weather
- Rocks
Additionally, if you have a vehicle with low ground clearance, you must use an enclosed transport carrier for its hydraulic lift function. The primary benefit of enclosed transport is protection. It is the safest way to ship your car, but it will come with a few extra costs and more limitations on routes or availability.
Benefits of Car Shipping
Gas prices have soared to new heights this summer. During June, gas prices reached $6.29 in California, $5.60 in Hawaii, and $5.57 in Alaska. On average, nationwide prices increased by 56% compared to the previous year.
Planning a move that involves driving a car across the country isn’t as cost-friendly as it used to be. Typically, transporting vehicles will cost more than the cost of gas. However, this difference has gotten smaller, and you will find it could save you money.
Shipping prices will vary based on your car, how far you want it transported, and the mode of transportation. Transporting a vehicle costs around $2 per mile during the first 200 miles. If transporting a car greater than 1,500 miles, the price drops significantly to $0.58 per mile.
Next, if traveling for long distances, you will need to factor in the cost of accommodations, food, vehicle wear, and more. Unexpected car breakdowns can also tally on thousands in repairs, lost productivity, and hotels.
Shipping Your Car Saves Time
Saving time is the second key benefit of choosing a professional car shipping company. It can take over 81 hours to drive from Florida to Alaska. If you are moving significant differences, such as Hawaii, Alaska, or from one coast to another, a professional shipping company is well worth your time.
Driving your car can result in you taking one to two weeks off work. If you have the luxury of working from home, you might be able to make up some of that time.
Unexpected road closures, weather, or emergencies could still delay your move. Flying to your destination and waiting for your vehicle can help you get started with unpacking and settling into your new place.
Protecting Your Vehicle
There are several risks when driving your car across the country, including environmental exposure. Even open air transport provides some protection to your vehicle from rock chips, gravel, and other debris.
If driving your vehicle, you will have greater chances of tire or windshield damage from loose debris and rocks. Encountering poor weather could also put you and your car at risk of getting stuck and requiring a tow truck or longer routes.
Enclosed transport can fully protect your car and keep it pristine during transport. You could also consider car wraps or protection film before shipping your vehicle.
What Do You Need To Start Shipping Your Car?
There are five primary documents to have on hand when you start the car shipping process. Here are some examples of the documents and identification needed:
- Bill of Lading
- Insurance terms and conditions
- Lienholder authorization (if needed)
- Vehicle insurance
- Driver’s license
Typically, a lienholder authorization is only needed for overseas shipping to Hawaii and if your car is not paid off. If you don’t meet either of those criteria, you will likely not need a lienholder’s authorization.
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is essential when starting the shipping process. You will mark on the BOL any damages or the condition of your car before shipping. After the car has arrived at your final destination, perform a thorough exterior check.
Any new damages must be marked and compared to the initial BOL if you want insurance to cover repairs. Additionally, hold onto a company’s insurance terms and conditions paperwork to refer to.
Start Planning Your Move
Have you wanted to plan a move across the country or overseas but don’t know where to get started? Shipping your car might sound like a costly decision. Yet, once you calculate gas prices, accommodations, food, and other expenses, it may seem like a much more time and cost-friendly option to ship it instead.
At Luxy Transport, we specialize in several types of car shipping, from open to enclosed. We have transported several vehicles to destinations like Alaska and Hawaii and can help you with your next major move.
Request a quote today to find out more information!