If you’re a London entrepreneur in the US, navigating the car shipping process can be daunting. How much does it cost to ship a car? How do you get a shipping quote? What do you need to know to ship a car to another state?
Whatever your shipping needs, here’s everything you need to know about car shipping and delivery in the US, including tips to get a competitive quote and find the right auto transport company.
Understanding Car Shipping Costs: How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
The average car shipping cost is around $1,290. It can cost anywhere between $0.40 to $2 per mile, but it can vary based on the number of miles your car has to travel, the type of transport, and more.
Here are some factors that determine shipping cost:
Distance: The distance your car travels is the main factor in the cost. Closer distances are cheaper overall, but the cost per mile is higher, and vice versa.
Vehicle make and model: Vehicle weight affects shipping costs. The larger your vehicle, the higher the shipping cost will be.
Transport type: The two primary auto transport types are open-air and enclosed trailers. Open-air trailers are more affordable, but they leave your car exposed to road debris and the elements. Enclosed trailers offer more protection at a higher cost, primarily for high-value vehicles.
Time of year: The summer months have a higher demand but more favorable weather, leading to higher shipping costs. Though winter has lower demand, severe weather conditions can affect trucking routes and may increase the shipping cost.
Vehicle condition: A vehicle that can be driven on or off a trailer will be cheaper to ship than a car that doesn’t run, which will need to be loaded with a liftgate or towed or winched onto a trailer. Inoperable vehicles may need to be shipped individually as well.
Delivery type: Door-to-door shipping is more convenient and personalized, which often comes at a higher price. Terminal-to-terminal delivery requires you to pick up your vehicle, but it’s cheaper than door-to-door shipping.
Getting the Best Deal: How to Obtain a Competitive Shipping Quote
Saving money is usually a top priority when shipping a car. You don’t want to sacrifice quality for a great deal, though. Here are some ways you can get a competitive shipping quote:
Compare quotes: Don’t take the first quote you’re offered. Request quotes from multiple car shipping companies to get an idea of the average to ship your car, then evaluate each company from there.
Book as early as possible: Booking a car shipment as early as possible gets you the best rates and guarantee availability because you can take advantage of seasonal demand fluctuations and deals.
Be flexible: The more flexible you can be with your pickup and delivery dates, the more competitive your rates will be. You may even get a discount for shipping during a slow season or slower days.
Consider the seasons and demand: Auto shipping rates fluctuate based on demand. Avoid peak periods, such as summer and the winter holidays, when the prices are often higher.
Select open-air trailer shipping: Open-air trailers are cheaper than enclosed trailer transport because they transport more cars at once and there’s less protection from the elements and road debris.
Hire a broker: An auto transport broker can help you negotiate the best rate from reputable auto transport companies and navigate the auto shipping process for a cost-effective, smooth, and stress-free experience.
Choosing Your Partner: Best Car Transport Companies for Your Needs
To choose the best car transport companies for your needs, you have to start with your criteria. Are you looking for enclosed trailer transport? Door-to-door service? Cross-country shipping?
Once you have your requirements, you can use them to guide your search. Here are some key considerations:
Check reviews: Third-party sites like TrustPilot and Better Business Bureau (BBB) have objective reviews that you can evaluate to determine which companies offer the level of care and service you prefer. Pay attention to negative reviews. Every company will have a complaint or two, but you can see how your preferred companies handle problems when they arise.
Verify credentials: Auto transport companies need a United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and a Motor Carrier (MC) number to operate legally in the US. Reputable companies will share these with you, then you can check the number to verify their information.
Evaluate insurance policies: It’s crucial to choose a car shipping company that’s fully insured and bonded. However, be sure to evaluate their insurance coverage to understand what type of damage it covers, and for how much, to determine if you need additional coverage.
Consider special services: If you have a luxury or exotic vehicle that needs special care, such as an enclosed trailer, door-to-door shipping, or GPS tracking, make sure you consider companies that offer these services.
Look for experience: Auto transportation is more than driving a vehicle from point A to point B. Look for companies with extensive resources and well-trained, experienced drivers that will treat your vehicle with the utmost care.
Consider payment options: Professional car shipping companies should have multiple payment options to improve your experience, such as cash, credit cards, or checks. If a company only accepts payments through wire transfer, steer clear.
Avoid offers that are “too good to be true”: Though there are ways to save, car shipping is an expense. Transporting your car safely takes time, resources, and expertise, so you should be wary of companies that offer quotes that seem impossibly cheap. At best, the company may be unreliable. At worst, you could fall victim to a shipping scam.
Expanding Your Reach: Car Shipping Companies in New York for State-to-State Delivery
Source: Pexels
If you’re looking to ship your car to or from New York or state to state, New York has several reputable car shipping companies that offer local and interstate shipping options. However, navigating all the options can be overwhelming – not to mention the time and risks involved.
You can ship by train, which is one of the most economical but slowest shipping options. Shipping by plane is quickest, but it’s the most expensive domestic option. You can drive yourself or haul your car using a trailer hitch, but you have to plan for the expenses, time, accommodation, and more.
Transporting cars from state to state by truck is cost effective and efficient. You can choose between enclosed trailers or open-air trailers, depending on your needs, and some NYC shipping companies offer door-to-door shipping for more convenience.
As a top-rated auto transport broker, Nexus Auto Transport can connect you with the best car shipping companies in New York. Whether you need specialty services or affordable cross-country shipping in the US, we’ll put you in touch with professional, reputable, and top-reviewed transport providers.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Efficient Car Delivery Across States
Navigating car shipping in the US can be challenging for residents, let alone a London entrepreneur. Instead of doing the work on your own, hire an auto transport broker to guide you through the process and ensure your car reaches its destination safe and sound.
