Local Vehicle Transport Companies vs. Nationwide Service Providers: Which Works Best for You?
You may not immediately notice the difference between local car transport companies and nationwide vehicle transport services. After all, both ship cars for customers via car haulers, whether open carriers or enclosed trailers. However, whether you're planning to ship a car across the country or just across town, nationwide shipping and local transport have distinct advantages and disadvantages.
We're here to break down the differences and benefits of each, giving you the tools to find the right auto transport company for your move.
What Do Auto Transport Companies Do?
Auto transport companies simplify the process of relocating vehicles. Customers don't have to drive cars themselves when scheduling with an auto transport company. Instead, you let a professional trucker take care of all of the details for you.
Vehicle transport companies cater to diverse needs, offering solutions for everyday sedans, luxury cars, classic vehicles, motorcycles, and even inoperable vehicles. There is a difference, though, between local car shipping services and national auto transportation companies. Sometimes, it pays to stay in town. Other times, you should look to a nationwide vehicle shipping provider. It all depends on what you're moving, where you're moving it to, and what you're looking for.
How Do Local Vehicle Transport Companies Work?
Local auto transport companies operate within limited areas, often focusing on specific cities, states, or neighboring regions. These small-scale businesses are usually owner-operated and tend to offer lower car shipping quotes for short distances. Local shipping is an excellent choice if you're looking to move a car across town.
However, the offerings of local car transportation services are often hamstrung by their limited scope.
Advantages of Local Companies
1. Lower Costs for Short Distances
Local companies often have fewer overhead expenses, enabling them to offer competitive rates for short-distance moves. For instance, if you’re relocating within the same county, you may receive a relative discount compared to a national car shipping provider.
2. Regional Expertise
Local vehicle transportation providers naturally understand local shipping routes and regulations. That's not to say they're guaranteed to be more efficient. However, familiarity can benefit big cities and neighborhoods with tricky access patterns.
3. Same-Day Service?
Owner-operator local transport companies have fewer clients and shorter routes to handle. If you catch a local provider on the right day, you may get same-day shipping -- especially for moves in the 20 to 200-mile range.
Limitations of Local Car Shipping Companies
1. Limited Equipment and Services
Local companies may not have access to specialized vehicle carriers, such as enclosed car shipping options, which are crucial for protecting high-value or classic vehicles. Their focus on standard auto transport services may not meet your specific needs.
2. Restricted Coverage Area
Most local transporters specialize in short distances and may not accommodate cross-country vehicle shipping. If you want to ship a car from state to state or coast to coast, this could be a big problem.
3. Smaller Workforce
Local companies often have fewer staff and drivers. If a local vehicle transport service is booked out during a peak season, you may not be able to secure services or you may pay a premium.
4. Limited Customer Care
If you want 24/7/365 support for vehicle shipping, small vehicle transport companies may not be the way to go. For example, car dealerships moving large quantities of vehicles need special around-the-clock support to manage inventory and track shipments.
Expanding Your Reach With Nationwide Auto Transport Companies
National auto transport companies operate on a much larger scale than local businesses, often spanning all 50 states. Their vast networks of vehicle carriers, equipment, vetted drivers, and personnel make them ideal for state-to-state car shipping and more complex logistics. These providers are equipped to manage everything from standard vehicles to luxury cars, RVs, and motorcycles.
Advantages of Nationwide Vehicle Transport Providers
1. Expanded Carrier Options
Nationwide companies typically offer both enclosed vs. open car shipping options. Open carriers are standard and cost-effective, while enclosed carriers provide extra protection for vehicles requiring special care, such as muscle cars and luxury sedans.
2. Scheduling Windows
With a larger pool of drivers and vehicles, national companies can accommodate tighter schedules. Their expansive trucking networks mean they can better approximate pickup and delivery dates, even during busy seasons.
3. Greater Availability and Flexibility
A vast network of trucking partners means extended coverage across cities and rural areas alike. Nationwide car shipping providers facilitate the transport of vehicles over long distances
without sacrificing reliability or speed.
4. Customer Reviews
Some local vehicle transport companies only have a few reviews for you to peruse. This makes it hard to look at a company's operations. A national vehicle transport company like Nexus Auto Transport gives you a broader scope. Nexus has received over 5,000 5-star reviews and is an A+-rated, BBB-accredited provider of vehicle shipping services.
Limitations of Nationwide Companies
1. Higher Costs For Local Moves
You will likely pay more to move a car locally with a nationwide car shipping company. However, per-mile costs are dropping and it's easy to access affordable services with the help of a nationwide car shipping cost calculator like the one provided by Nexus Auto Transport.
2. Supporting Small Businesses
Nationwide vehicle transport companies are unlikely to be based in your local municipality. However, a local vehicle transport service is worth considering if you want to support a small business in your area.
How To Choose Between Local and Nationwide Car Transportation Companies
Here are the factors you need to consider when deciding between shipping a car with a local provider and moving a vehicle with a nationwide vehicle transportation company:
1. Distance
A local provider might offer lower prices and faster delivery times if you move a car within a few hours of your pickup location. However, a nationwide company is better equipped to move vehicles efficiently, affordably, and economically for longer distances or cross-country car shipping.
2. Vehicle Type
If you own a luxury or vintage car, prioritize companies with enclosed car shipping options. Nationwide providers often have access to specialized equipment, ensuring better protection during transit.
3. Timeline
Local companies may not accommodate urgent shipping needs due to limited resources. With their extensive networks, Nationwide providers can often schedule expedited pickups and deliveries.
4. Pricing
While affordability is important, beware of companies offering prices significantly below the market rate. Quality service often comes with a fair cost, whether you choose a local or national provider.
5. Reputation
Research customer reviews, company ratings, and industry certifications. Nationwide providers often have a larger online presence, making it easier to evaluate their performance.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Carrier Option
When shipping a car across the country, you must choose between an open or enclosed vehicle carrier.
Open Carrier Shipping: Ideal for most vehicles, open carriers are affordable but expose your car to weather and road debris.
Enclosed Carrier Shipping: This option offers superior protection, making it suitable for high-value or vintage cars. While it’s more expensive, the added peace of mind can be worth the cost.
Make the Right Choice For Your Move
You should choose only a car transport company that meets your needs. A local vehicle transportation service is good for short-distance moves. A nationwide car shipping company like Nexus Auto Transport is better for shipments greater than 200 miles, especially long-distance shipments and those with special needs.
Looking to ship a car from coast to coast? Visit our vehicle shipping cost calculator and receive your free car transport quotes. Schedule a shipment within seconds, or call (224) 218-2949 for assistance.
