How to Transport Your Vehicle during a Cross-Country Move
Whether you’re buying a car online or relocating to a new state, finding a safe and efficient ride home can be an overwhelming process. Besides moving your personal belongings and housewares, you also need to figure out a convenient way to transport your car. While it might seem easier to hop in and get going, you may need to consider available alternatives when moving a long distance. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to move your car to your destination. This article will break down the necessary steps to safely ship your vehicle.
Shipping
Shipping is one of the best methods to move your car from one point to the other. Ideally, shipping can be done in three different ways, namely, open truck shipping, enclosed truck shipping, and expedited. The open carrier is the most popular and even used by auto manufacturers to transport new cars. In this method, your vehicle is moved along with other cars, and the method is a bit cheaper as compared to enclosed carriers.
The enclosed carriers are more expensive and can be perfect for exotic and classic cars, or when moving your vehicle during the extreme winter season. This method helps protect your vehicle against damage. On the other hand, expedited auto transport helps those customers who want their cars transported in a short time, mostly within 24 to 48 hours. Unlike other auto transport companies that promise what they hardly deliver, others like Guardian Auto Transport are keen on details to ensure safe and convenient delivery.
Crucial steps for a successful shipping process
Pick a Date
While you have an idea of when the cross-country move is bound to happen, it can great to select a particular date of the event in advance. Being sure with your timeframe can help prepare the necessary documentation and transportation quotes for your vehicle. So earlier you settle on a date, the better for the processes. The fact that service providers can flex to accommodate your schedule doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t set a specific time.
Research Auto Transportation Companies
Before you can choose a particular moving company, it is a good idea to shop around and compare the available options. Research for reputable companies in your local area or conduct a quick search online to get and compare quotes. Check the details of their insurance; it is included in the total cost or not.
You can also ask your family members or trusted friend to refer you to a reputable moving company that they may have used before. However, you should be ready to submit some vital information like the model of your car and your car’s new destination to help them provide you with an appropriate quote.
Get a Quote
Getting a quote from you’re your shipping agent is crucial because it will enable you to know the exact cost to move your vehicle to your new destination. You may be required to give some essential information, such as your address, name, and email. It’s also necessary to provide details of your car model and make, plus the address of your new location.
Additionally, you may be needed to specify if your car is operable as well as be allowed to choose the type of shipping you may prefer. Getting a quote can also help you discuss your needs and expectations with your transporting company.
Contact Your Insurance Agent
Check with your insurance agent and inform them of your plans. While you move, it’s essential to prepare for risks that may arise like accidents, damage, or theft. In this case, your insurance agent can provide critical information regarding the safety and possible insurance compensations for your vehicle. It is also important to note that some auto transportation companies like Guardian Auto Transport include all the transportation costs, including insurance costs.
Empty Your Car
It is always advisable to remove any item that was not agreed upon with your moving company. Unless you had informed them and negotiated over the situation, it’s not possible to use your vehicle as an additional packing space. Stuffing your vehicle with extra weight would attract additional fees or cause safety issues.
Arrival Inspection
Usually, transportation services providers will inspect your car before shipping; this is to ensure that the vehicle arrives in the same condition. However, so much can happen while your vehicle is on a cross-country move. That is why it is essential to be available during delivery to ensure the process ends smoothly.
Make sure you check out how the unload the car and inspect the condition of your vehicle to detect any damage. You should inspect your vehicle in the company of the truck driver before you could both sign the final transport contract. Remember that once you sign, you will not make any claim after that, so it helps to check your car over and over to be sure.