If you’re expanding your EU business into the US, there’s a lot of logistics to work out – including how you’ll get your commercial vehicles transported. Whether you’re moving a few vehicles, helping your team relocate, or shipping a fleet, there are commercial auto transport companies that can make the process as cost effective and streamlined as possible.
Here’s everything you need to know about the cost to ship a car for EU businesses expanding in the USA, what to consider when choosing a company and quote, and ways to save on your auto shipment.
Understanding How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car for EU Businesses
The average car shipping cost is about $1,290, or between $0.40 and $2 per mile. However, a lot of factors affect your shipped cost, including:
The distance your car has to travel: The number of miles between the pickup and delivery locations is a crucial factor in your shipping costs. The longer the distance, the higher the overall price. However, longer distances often have a lower per-mile rate.
Location: Metropolitan areas usually have more drivers available, so you may get lower car shipping quotes if you’re shipping between cities. Rural areas are often more expensive, but you may be able to drive your vehicle to a transportation hub in the city to save money.
Time of year: Seasonal availability affects shipping costs, just like any other industry. During periods of high demand, such as summer, the costs may increase. Winter is usually the slowest and cheapest season, but weather-related delays and road closures can increase your shipping rate.
Vehicle condition: An inoperable car requires additional equipment to load and unload from a trailer, such as a liftgate or winch. A car that runs can just be driven on and off of the trailer, so it’s less expensive.
Vehicle make and model: The weight of your vehicle factors into the shipping price. Larger vehicles are generally more expensive than small cars and SUVs, and some may require specialized equipment to ship safely.
Shipping method: Choosing open-air trailer transport is more economical than enclosed trailer shipping, but your vehicle is exposed to the elements and road debris. Enclosed trailers are often used for valuable vehicles that are too delicate for daily driving, such as antique cars.
Additional services: Upgrading your shipping with services like expedited shipping or door-to-door delivery is more convenient, but it costs more.
Navigating Shipping Quotes for Car Delivery in the USA
Comparing shipping quotes can be overwhelming. Here’s everything you need to know to compare costs and choose the best shipping company for your car delivery:
Ensure accurate information: Know your make, model, and any vehicle modifications, your pickup and delivery locations, preferred shipping dates, and any special services you may require.
Request quotes from multiple companies: Don’t take the first quote you get. Request quotes from several companies to get an average for your shipment, then narrow down your list. Make sure you provide the companies with accurate information to get the most accurate quote.
Ask questions: Once you’ve narrowed down your list, ask the companies questions about their services, safety measures, and shipping preparation. A professional company will help you navigate the process.
Analyzing Car Delivery Options for European Businesses in the US
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You have a few car delivery options to consider based on your needs and budget. Here are some key considerations:
Open-air transport: Open-air transport is a common and cost-effective way to ship vehicles, which are loaded onto an open-air trailer and transported with other vehicles. If you’re transporting a commercial fleet, this is a great option. However, there’s less protection for your vehicle.
Enclosed trailer transport: Enclosed trailers are commonly used for high-value vehicles because they provide more protection than open-air trailers. However, this option can be more expensive because only a few vehicles ship at once and fewer companies offer this service.
Terminal-to-terminal delivery: With terminal-to-terminal delivery, your vehicle is picked up at a designated terminal, then shipped to another near your destination for pickup. This is a cheaper but less convenient shipping option.
Door-to-door delivery: Door-to-door delivery, as the name suggests, involves picking up your vehicle from your chosen location and delivering it directly to your preferred destination, or as close as access allows. This is a convenient option, but it’s often expensive.
Expedited shipping: If you’re in a rush to get your commercial vehicle or fleet delivered, you can pay for expedited shipping. While regular shipping is efficient, expedited shipping ensures a faster delivery for a premium cost.
Selecting the Best Car Transport Companies for International Businesses
Navigating your options for the best car transport companies for international businesses can be challenging. Here are some steps to choose the right one:
Research your options: Research car transport companies that specialize in international and commercial car shipping. You want companies that have experience in the logistics and complexity of shipping cars to and from the US and Europe.
Check reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from past customers on third-party sites like TrustPilot and Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pay attention to positive reviews and the company’s reputation and customer service, but make sure to check the negative reviews as well to see how the company handles complaints and issues.
Licensing and insurance: Check that any auto transport companies you’re considering are licensed and insured. All auto transport companies in the US must have a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and an Motor Carrier (MC) number with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to operate legally.
Shipping options: Evaluate the company’s shipping options, including open-air and enclosed transport, terminal-to-terminal vs. door-to-door delivery, discounts for commercial fleets, and more, to ensure they can meet your needs.
Insurance coverage: Ask about the company’s insurance coverage for your vehicle during transit, particularly what is and isn’t covered. All auto transport companies are legally required to have liability insurance, but you may want additional coverage to protect your vehicle.
Additional services: If you need additional services like storage options, expedited shipping, or GPS tracking, see if the companies you’re considering offer these value-added services that may improve your shipping experience.
The Cost Effectiveness of Shipping a Car to Another State in the US: Car Shipping Companies in New York
The decision to ship a car to another state in the US can be cost effective, especially if you’re moving your commercial fleet. You’ll not only save time and stress by having a professional handle the work for you, but you may find it’s more cost effective than transporting your vehicles yourself.
Car shipping companies in New York offer competitive rates for state-to-state delivery. New York City is a major transport hub, helping you get better deals shipping to or from New York than more remote areas.
The best way to ship a car to another state in the US is by hiring an auto transport broker with experience in state-to-state shipping. These experienced professionals can connect you with the best car shipping companies for your needs, whether you want to relocate a fleet with economical shipping or you want convenience and peace of mind of enclosed trailers, GPS tracking, and additional services.
Final Considerations on Car Shipping Costs for EU Businesses in America
Expanding your EU business in the US involves a lot of planning and preparation, including relocating your vehicles. It’s important to consider all the factors that affect your auto shipping price, evaluate prospective auto transport companies, and make an informed decision about what’s best for your needs.
