Imagine you have just got your dream job in another state. Obviously, this is the most exciting thing that has happened to you. Amid the excitement, one question that comes to mind is how to get your car safely to your new home, without the stress of a long drive or unexpected costs.
This is where the professional car shipping companies come into play. But when you started looking for moving services, you realized that car shipping costs vary. It happens! Many people find the pricing structure confusing, as car shipping quotes can vary widely depending on factors such as distance and vehicle type.
In this blog, we’ll break down the cost of car shipping and tips to save more.
What Determines Car Shipping Cost?
The cost of car transportation isn’t one-size-fits-all; several factors play a significant role in determining the price. Here are the main elements that influence your final car transportation quotes.
1- Type of Transport
One of the biggest factors that affects car shipping costs is the type of transport: open or enclosed. Both are different and charge different prices.
- Open Transport – It is the most common and cost-effective option for car transportation. In this, cars are shipped in open trailers, similar to those you see on highways transporting multiple vehicles. The car is exposed to the climate and poses risks. However, this is a reliable and affordable choice for standard vehicles.
- Enclosed Transport – It is a covered transportation with added protection from weather, road debris, and dust, ideal for luxury, vintage, and new cars. However, it is typically 30% to 50% more expensive than open car transportation.
Your choice here significantly impacts the car shipping costs.
2- Distance and Route
The distance and route also determine the car transportation costs. The farther the distance, the higher the prices are. Is it? No, the cost per mile usually decreases for long routes.
- Short-distance shipment (under 500 miles) might cost more per mile because loading and unloading times remain the same.
- Long-distance shipment (over 1,000 miles) may cost more overall but less per mile.
Additionally, the route itself matters. Popular routes, like Los Angeles to New York, are cheaper due to high demand. While rare routes may charge more because there are fewer vehicles to transport on them, the mover has to arrange services for you exclusively.
3- Vehicle Type And Size
The vehicle’s size, weight, and model also affect car shipping costs. Heavy or oversized vehicles take up more space on a carrier, require more fuel, and need specialized handling.
- Sedans and compact cars are cheaper to ship.
- SUVs, trucks, and vans cost more due to their weight and size.
- Modified or non-operational cars may incur additional handling fees.
- Luxury cars may require extra protection, which may cost more.
Carriers must comply with strict Department of Transportation Weight Limits, so extra pounds count in determining the car shipping quotes.
4- Pickup And Delivery Options
The next factor that affects car shipping costs is pick up and delivery. There are two options-
- Terminal-to-Terminal – In this, you (the owner) drop off and pick up the car at the terminal. This reduces the cost, but you have to travel to a certain point.
- Door-to-Door – The carrier picks up and delivers your vehicle to your door. This is the most convenient way, but it may be expensive.
So, your car shipping costs depend on the option you choose.
5- Time of the Year
Car transportation costs are also affected by the time of shipping, as weather and season play significant roles.
- Summer – Demand surges as families relocate during school breaks and as car shipping costs rise.
- Winter – Routes to and from Southern states can become more expensive due to challenging weather conditions.
If your shipping allows you flexibility, book during the off-season to save a significant amount.
6- Urgency of Delivery
You need to shift immediately and need your vehicle shipped right away? Your vehicle can be delivered on short notice, but at a premium cost. If you can plan and allow standard delivery windows, it can save on car shipping costs.
Tips to Save Money on Car Shipping Costs
Once your car transportation cost is determined, you can also save on the final cost by following some tips. Here are a few ways to save a few extra bucks on car shipping costs.
- Book Early – Avoid last-minute surcharges by scheduling your shipment in advance.
- Be Flexible – Don’t be in a hurry! Allow your car shipping company to deliver the vehicle at their convenience. A delivery window helps the carrier optimize routes, often lowering your cost.
- Ship During Off-Season – Spring and fall often have fewer bookings, which can affect car shipping costs.
- Consolidate Moves – If you’re moving household goods as well, some full-service moving companies often offer a bundle discount.
This way, you can save on car transportation costs. However, most movers offer their transportation services at affordable prices, so the prices do not affect them that much. Some factors still affect car shipping costs, such as the combination of services.
Smooth Your Car Transportation With Certified Movers
Car shipping requires extra attention. At Certified Movers, we stand out for offering exceptional car shipping services for short and long-distance moves (within the city or other states). We offer transparent car shipping costs with absolutely no hidden charges. Whether you are moving across the city or country, you’ll benefit from-
- Honest, upfront pricing with no surprise fees.
- A team of professionals dedicated to safe and timely delivery.
- Flexible options for every type of vehicle and budget.
With years of experience and expertise, we have become one of the reputable car shipping companies, making car transportation smooth, affordable, and completely worry-free. What are you waiting for? Contact us to book your car shipping services now!