Are you moving from one state to another? Whether you’re moving from California to Illinois or from Pennsylvania to Hawaii, you’ll need to find a company specializing in long-distance car shipments. And while some people may think it’s not that big of a deal, it’s important to make sure you get the right car shipping company. Here are some tips for making sure you get a smooth moving experience.

Set a Budget

One of the first things you should do is set a budget. It’s important to note that the price of transporting your car will depend on several factors:
• Your location
• Vehicle’s weight and dimensions
• Type of shipping you choose (open vs. enclosed carrier)
• Point of departure and destination

You should also consider the cost of cargo insurance. If you want to protect your car against damage or loss, you will need to purchase the right shipping plan. The more comprehensive the cargo insurance, the more expensive it can be to ship the vehicle.

Shop Around to Get the Best Quote

Once you have a budget set, it’s time to research different car shipping companies in your area. Start by checking out the company’s website or calling their customer service to get an estimate. You may also want to check online reviews of auto shipping companies, like Montway auto transport reviews.

During your research, make sure to cover the following information:
• The service area – Some companies only ship within a certain radius from their home base. So, make sure the shipping companies you are vetting service your destination city.
• Rates – Pick a company with competitive rates. Rates are influenced by several factors, including the distance shipped, the weight of the vehicle, and whether it’s being shipped domestically or internationally.
• Cargo insurance – If you want to protect your car against damage or loss, ask each company about their cargo insurance plan.
• The car carrier – Each car shipping company may have different preferences for transporting your vehicle. If you can, get quotes from multiple companies that offer enclosed carriers.

Of course, you will also want to ask the company any questions that may arise throughout your quote process. A reputable car shipping company will be more than happy to answer your questions and provide you with a free estimate.

Decide How You Want to Ship the Car

Once you have a few companies on your list, it’s time to decide how you want to ship the car. These are the common options:
• Open-air carriers transport your vehicle on an open truck with nine other cars. It’s the least expensive option, but there’s a greater chance of damage.
• Enclosed carriers are more expensive but safer. Your vehicle is transported inside a fully enclosed carrier for added protection.
• Door-to-door shipping is expensive, but you won’t have to lift a finger. The car shipping company will bring your vehicle right to your door.
• Terminal-to-terminal shipping is a cheaper option, but it can cause delays. When you choose this service, your car will be dropped off at the shipping company’s nearest port and picked up from the port of destination.

It’s important to note that if you have a classic car, open transport will most likely not be available. These vehicles should be transported in enclosed carriers for maximum protection.

Understand the Plan and Schedule

Once you’re ready to purchase a vehicle transport service, make sure you understand the plan and timeline. Most car shipping companies will provide you with a document that outlines the entire process. Even if they don’t, though, it is helpful to know all the details surrounding the shipment.

Here are some questions to ask:
• What is the pickup and drop-off schedule for my vehicle?
• How long will it take to transport my car from point A to point B?
• Do you need to be at the pickup and/or drop-off location?
• What happens if the car is damaged before the shipment?

Cancelation Dates
Make sure you understand the deadline for canceling your shipment. If you need to make changes, most companies will allow you to do so for free. But if you miss the deadline, then you’ll be charged a cancelation fee.

Delivery Windows
When you send your car with a transporter, be sure you understand the delivery deadline. Many carriers will give you an estimate for the delivery time once you have selected your shipping plan.

Plan Ahead

Did you know that the average car transport takes about seven days? That’s why it’s important to plan. Organize your schedule to make sure you’ll be available to sign for the car at the destination. Give yourself plenty of time to inspect the vehicle when it arrives. If something is wrong, you’ll have time to contact the shipping company about it.

Inspect the Car Before and After It Ships

On the shipping and delivery days, take photos of your car and inspect the exterior thoroughly. Then, check all the parts of your car to make sure they’re working properly. If anything is damaged, it is important to take photos of the damages and let the shipping company know about it.

If you need to file a claim, provide detailed information about the damage and your experience with the shipping company. The more evidence you have, the easier it will be to get compensation.

Conclusion

As you plan the process, stay informed about any changes as they happen. If the shipping company needs to delay the pickup or drop-off, contact them as soon as possible. That way, you won’t be left wondering when your vehicle will arrive.