So, you've already planned a move across the country but are puzzled about what to do with your vehicle? Driving it such a long distance isn't a practical solution, so what's the next step? Hiring someone to drive your car across the country is a safe, convenient, and cost-effective auto transportation method.
If you want to learn more about how hiring a driver to transport your car across a long distance can simplify cross-country car shipping for you, continue reading this article.
Why You Might Need to Hire a Driver
Hiring a driver can be a practical solution in various scenarios where individuals may require assistance driving their cars. Here are several situations in which someone might need to hire a driver:
Relocation to Another State
Moving to a new state involves a long journey, often across unfamiliar roads and potentially through varying weather conditions. Hiring a driver to transport your car to your new state can ease the stress of a long-distance move, allowing individuals to focus on other aspects of the relocation while a professional handles the driving.
Car Transportation for Family Members
If a family member, such as a student or elderly relative, needs their car transported across the country, hiring a driver can be a safe option. This is especially useful when the family member cannot drive the vehicle for some reason.
Vacation
When going on vacation, some individuals prefer to drive their own car. But driving their car all the way across the country to their vacation destination is stressful and time-consuming. So they hire a driver to deliver their car for them. Then when they arrive, their car is waiting for them.
How to Find a Reliable Driver
Finding the right person to take the wheel is important, whether for moving a car around or out of state. Here's how you can find a reliable driver to make your adventure safe and secure:
Where to Look
Start with your own network, ask friends, family, or neighbors if they know someone reliable. If that doesn't work, turn to the internet.
Websites like Craigslist, LinkedIn, or even local community forums can be treasure troves for finding drivers to move a car across the country. You can also try Nextdoor, a neighborhood-based social media platform or gig websites, like Upwork.
Credentials Matter
When transporting your car over long distances it is crucial to look for a driver who has the necessary expertise to conduct the movement safely. But how would you know a driver is reliable? Simply by looking for a transport company whose drivers own valid legal licenses.
Asses Driving Record
If you've chosen a driver to move your car from one state to another, but you're still unsure about their legality or experience in handling a car, you can request their driving record from your local DMV. For example, in California, you can request someone’s driving record online, in-person, or via mail.
The Hiring Process
Here are the steps involved in hiring a driver from a reputable auto transport company:
Step 1: Identify a Potential Driver or Auto Transport Company
Begin the process by searching for drivers in your area who specialize in car transport across long distances. Seek referrals from friends or colleagues who have used such services in the past or you can check for reviews of various auto transport companies online. All in all, ensure you choose a driver with experience in long-distance car transport and a stellar driving record.
Step 2: Prepare the Agreement
Once you have chosen a driver, the next step is to work on the agreement outlining the terms and conditions for moving the vehicle. Begin by drafting a comprehensive contract that includes details such as the duration of the trip, the driver's responsibilities, and any additional handling notes.
Step 3: Setting Terms and Conditions
Clearly communicate your expectations to the driver regarding vehicle usage, maintenance responsibilities, and adherence to traffic laws. Establish guidelines for communication and regular updates throughout the trip to stay informed about the progress and any potential issues. You can also build specific stipulations, like whether you want your car delivered to a nearby transportation hub or directly to your door.
Cost Considerations
Auto transport companies are often chosen for their cost efficiency compared to driving your own vehicle to the destination. However, the quotes for these services can vary. Essential factors impacting the cost of transporting your vehicle across the state include:
Distance you will be covering.
Type of the car you own.
The auto transport company you choose.
Insurance policy you choose.
Carrier you use for transporting your car, either closed or enclosed.
Gas prices at the time of transport.
Preparing Your Car for the Journey
So, now that you've decided on the auto transport company and have already hired the best driver for your valuable vehicle, the next step is to prepare your car for the journey. Since your car will be traveling a long distance, ensuring it is in top-notch condition and meets all safety standards is crucial.
To stay on the safer side, thoughtfully preparing your car for the journey is advised. Here's a quick guide on how to do so:
Run a Comprehensive Maintenance Check
Before handing your car over to the auto transport company, consider conducting a thorough maintenance check. Here's a checklist to ensure your vehicle is in top-notch condition for the journey:
Fluid Levels: Check and top up essential fluids such as oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid to recommended levels.
Tire Inspection: Examine tire pressure and look for signs of wear or damage. Additionally, rotate tires if necessary and ensure they are properly inflated.
Brake System: Ensure the brakes are functioning properly. Moreover, listen for unusual noises and address any vibrations or issues with the braking system.
Battery Health: Verify that the battery is charged and in good condition. Also, consider replacing an old or weak battery to prevent issues during transport.
Lights and Signals: Test all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
Alignment and Suspension: Check for signs of misalignment or suspension issues, such as uneven tire wear or pulling to one side. Try to address these issues ASAP before transporting the car.
Remove Valuables
Before handing over your car for transport, take out any valuable items, electronics, or important documents from the vehicle. It's advisable to carry these belongings with you or find a secure alternative for transportation. This precaution ensures that your valuable possessions are not at risk of loss or damage during the auto transport process.
Secure Loose Items
If your car has a dashboard, sunglasses compartment, or any other loose accessories, consider securing them before transporting your vehicle. During the transport, these loose items might shift out of their designated spaces and potentially damage the interior or surroundings of the car.
To prevent any such damage, it is advisable to use adhesive tape to secure these loose items before handing over the car to the transport company. Taking this precaution ensures that your car arrives at its destination without any unwanted interior damage.
Install and Inspect the Car GPS System
When entrusting your car to a transport company, it is essential to install a GPS system. As your car is being transported across long distances, having a GPS system installed provides several crucial benefits:
Real-Time Tracking: With a GPS system in place, you can track the exact location of your car in real-time throughout its journey. This feature offers peace of mind and allows you to monitor the progress of the transport.
Security Measures: In the unfortunate event of theft or unauthorized access to your vehicle, a GPS system enables quick and efficient tracking, increasing the chances of recovery.
Timely Updates: Stay informed about the estimated time of arrival (ETA) of your car at its destination. GPS systems can provide accurate ETA predictions based on the current location and travel speed, allowing you to plan accordingly for the pickup or delivery.
Document Vehicle Condition
Even with all your preparation, there’s a chance your vehicle will be damaged during the trip. So make sure you inspect your car before transporting it. Once you have followed the above points, take clear photographs of your vehicle from various angles. These photographs provide visual evidence and help ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of the car's condition prior to transportation.
Submit Vehichle's Necessary Documents
Provide the necessary documentation requested by the transport company, including proof of ownership, insurance information, and vehicle registration. Ensuring all paperwork is in order facilitates a smooth handover process and also helps your vehicle pass through legal proceedings without any hassle.
Alternatives to Hiring a Driver
There are various alternatives to hiring a personal driver for moving a car across the country, each offering distinct advantages and drawbacks. Let's discover these options one by one by one!
Auto Transport Companies
Auto transport companies offer both cost-effective and secure transportation for cars over long distances. This approach saves time, allowing you to fly to your destination while your vehicle is transported separately. Additionally, these moving companies have experts who can deliver your car safely to its destination.
Driving Your Car to the Destination
Another alternative to hiring a personal driver is driving your car to the destination yourself. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Driving long distances can be tiring, requiring careful planning, including rest stops and overnight stays. It can also result in extra expenses for fuel, not to mention the potential wear and tear on your vehicle.
Additionally, if you are planning a move across the border, you need to familiarize yourself with different driving regulations and potential language barriers to navigate.
Chaining Your Car to a Moving Truck
For a do-it-yourself option, chaining your car to a moving truck provides the convenience of moving multiple items simultaneously. However, this method requires access to a suitable truck, and your car may accumulate mileage during the journey or incur significant damage, potentially breaking the bank. You also want to make sure you know how to properly tow your vehicle—so make sure to read this guide to long-distance car towing before you take the DIY route.
Ship Your Car by Train
Utilizing train services for car shipping can be efficient and environmentally friendly, especially for long-distance travel. Nevertheless, accessibility to certain areas may be limited, and scheduling is subject to railway timetables.
Find the Right Car Transport Company Today
If you've been asking, "How do I hire someone to drive my car across the country?" look no further. Opting for a car transport company is an excellent way to get your vehicle from point A to point B without worrying about potential damage or wear. It not only saves you time and money but also provides peace of mind, especially during hectic moments such as moving.
Still unsure about whom to trust with your valuable vehicle? No worries – Nexus Auto Transport has got your back! We offer expedited, enclosed and open car transport services for any distance within the country. Visit our website for cross-country or state-to-state options today to arrange a smooth and stress-free journey for your car.
