Quotes for car shipping can vary significantly based on weight and, more importantly, size. Many assume the cost will be the same for all vehicles, but that's not the case. Often, the larger the car, the higher the fees.
If you own multiple cars or are curious about the cost differences between shipping small versus larger vehicles, this article is for you. Let's explore how a car's dynamics, including size, can alter your car's final moving expenses.
Why Size Matters in Auto Transportation?
Size matters a lot in the auto transportation world. The thing is that the bigger the car is, the more space it takes up. Consequently, this compels the shipping company to use specialized carriers or equipment to handle vehicles. In short, the more additional hardware an auto-moving firm utilizes, the higher your final bill will be.
Now, smaller cars have a bit of a different mechanism. As they are compact and can fit into small carriers, they may be relatively inexpensive to ship.
Factors Affecting Auto Shipping Costs
Beyond just the car's build, auto shipping costs can vary due to numerous factors. Here, we'll delve into each of these factors in detail, including the size and weight of the vehicle.
1. Size of the Vehicle
When you hand over your car to an auto shipping company, they first measure its size. For instance, if you have an SUV, it would fall into the category of large vehicles. Conversely, if you have a Sedan or Hatchback, it would be labeled as a small vehicle.
Given their high value and susceptibility to damage, large cars require carriers just made for them. Consequently, this can add to the final shipping cost for such vehicles. Smaller cars also require specialized carriers, but their compact size allows greater flexibility. As a result, the ultimate quote for small vehicles remains low.
2. Weight of the Vehicle
Heavier cars add more load to the carrier and impact fuel consumption. This additional load might seem insignificant. However, it can considerably affect the carrier's operational costs. Consequently, the final quotes can fluctuate depending on the vehicle's weight.
3. Distance To Be Shipped
The delivery location also plays a huge role in determining the transportation costs of your car. Apparently, the more distance your vehicle has to cover, the higher the final shipping quote will be.
Similarly, pickup and drop-off locations can also necessitate additional costs. Most of the time, clients prefer to handle the pickup or delivery themselves. This saves them time as well as extra expenses.
4. Mode of Transportation
The two most common modes of transporting vehicles are open and enclosed transportation. Now, the enclosed shipping mode, as the name suggests, utilizes specialized carriers. This includes using closed containers, which protect the car from damage during transit. However, this service does come at a cost, and the peace of mind it offers is exceptional.
An open mode of transportation is comprised of using open-air carriers. These are often trailers and have multiple cars stacked or rowed for shipping. Consequently, this service costs less but exposes your vehicle to external factors like dirt, debris, and unpredictable weather.
5. Gas and Fuel Charges
Gas and fuel charges can change without notice, leading to fluctuations in auto-moving costs. Consequently, the shipping cost of your car to the same location may vary from year to year due to these changes in fuel prices.
6. Insurance Cost
Auto transport companies offer varying insurance policies. Some of these policies are included in the base price, providing basic coverage for your vehicle during transit.
However, if you want additional protection for your vehicle, you can also purchase premium insurance policies. These costly packages protect against unforeseen events, including theft and vandalism.
7. Seasonal Variations
If you're relocating a car across the country with unpredictable weather, expect to pay additional charges. Unforeseen seasonal changes like snowfall or strong winds can cause the shippers to utilize special equipment. This employment can further increase the vehicle moving cost accordingly.
Price Comparison: Small vs. Large Vehicles
Size
- Small Vehicles: These cars are compact and can be accommodated on almost any carrier. As a result of their flexibility, shipping small cars might often cost less.
- Large Vehicles: Large cars require a special carrier for transport. This can result in increasing its ultimate moving quote.
Weight
- Small Vehicles: Small vehicles are typically lightweight, so carriers would not consume as much fuel while shipping them. This can contribute to lower fuel costs and lower overall shipping expenses.
- Large Vehicles: Large vehicles are indeed bulkier, contributing significantly to the additional load on the carrier during transport. Consequently, this increased weight can result in higher fuel consumption for the carrier, leading to higher fuel costs.
Tips To Get the Best Car Shipping Quotes
According to 2023 statistics, the auto transport industry was measured at $9.9 billion, expecting further growth in 2024. With these figures, it's reasonable to anticipate the emergence of new vehicle shipping companies and changes in auto-moving quotes.
However, you don't have to worry! With the tips below, you can get the best car shipping quotes in no time.
1. Collect Quotes
Avoid securing the deal as soon as you contact an auto transport company. Instead, aim to shortlist several shipping firms and obtain quotes from each of them. Once you have gathered these quotes, compare them thoroughly, considering factors such as cost, services offered, and reputation. Finally, finalize the deal with the company that suits your needs.
2. Book Early
It's advisable to book your car shipping service as early as possible. This allows you to secure better rates and enough time to compare quotes from different companies. Additionally, booking on time can help you avoid any last-minute rush or higher costs due to increased demand.
3. Be Flexible
Flexibility in your shipping schedule can often lead to cost savings. Consider being open to different pickup and delivery dates. Also, alternative routes should be explored to secure better rates.
Nexus Auto Transport: Your Source for Competitive Shipping Quotes
Whether a car is large or small, it requires meticulous care when shipping across country. Auto shipping companies have the expertise to handle every kind of car, no matter how long the distance. However, the best transportation company is the one that provides clear pricing.
Nexus Auto Transport is one of those vehicle shipping companies that emphasizes transparency and customer satisfaction. With us, you can expect straightforward and competitive pricing without hidden fees or surprises.
Visit our website today to get a quote for moving your vehicle using our online shipping calculator. Or just call us to discuss the services we provide in detail.
Good Luck!
