Why You Should Ship Your Car: A Hassle-Free Solution for Long-Distance Moves

March 9, 2023 / Posted in Car Shipping
Gemma Collins

Gemma is an NJ local that has explored all the US states, making her the perfect person to write about moving.

One of the biggest challenges of long-distance moving is figuring out what to do with your car. Driving across the country can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive – that’s why you should consider shipping instead. From saving time and money to reducing stress, learn why you should ship your car with a professional auto transport company.

A car transport truck hauling several cars on a highway
Ship your car with a professional company, and don't fret about the consequences

Why You Should Ship Your Car – A Comprehensive Guide to Auto Transport Across States

When moving long distances, many people may consider driving their car to their new destination instead of using long-distance movers and their car shipping services. However, several benefits to shipping your car far outweigh any potential disadvantages.

By using an auto transport company, you can save time and money, reduce wear and tear on your vehicle, and enjoy a stress-free move. Even in the case of a last-minute relocation, the potential cost of interstate moving would still trump driving and doing everything alone.

The Benefits of Shipping a Car Exceed Any Potential Disadvantages

Firstly, transporting your car can save you significant time and effort. Long-distance driving can be exhausting, and the last thing you want to do after a long move is to spend even more time on the road.

With a long-distance moving company, you can have your car picked up from your old location and delivered directly to your new one, freeing up time and energy to focus on other important aspects of your move.

On top of that, most moving services also include packing service, so you have time for everything, even if you’re rushed or plan to move during the holidays.

In addition to time, shipping your car can also save you money in the long run. When driving long distances, you’ll have to factor in the cost of gas, meals, lodging, and potential car repairs. These expenses add up quickly and can cost more than hiring cross-country movers.

What Are the Challenges of Long-Distance Moves?

Long-distance moves present numerous challenges that make the process stressful and overwhelming. One of the biggest is figuring out how to get your car to the new location and how to relocate on a budget if you opt for auto transport.

Driving across the country can be time-consuming and expensive and expose your car to wear and tear, potential accidents, or theft. Getting organized to move on your own means having to factor in everything – from gas costs to repairs:

  • The logistical challenges of moving your car include fitting long-distance driving into a busy schedule and dealing with tiring, dangerous, or unfamiliar terrain,
  • Long-distance driving can also be expensive due to the cost of gas, food, lodging, and potential maintenance or repair costs,
  • Driving long distances puts your car at risk of damage from accidents, theft, or vandalism.

Using an auto transport company can help alleviate these challenges and make transporting your car hassle-free. You can choose between open vs enclosed auto transport and reduce stress by knowing this relocation experience was curated according to your needs.

Long-Distance Moving Includes the Logistical Challenges of Car Shipping

While car shipping is convenient and practical for long-distance moving, there are still several logistical challenges to consider. These may include:

  • Timing – it can be difficult to coordinate the pickup and delivery of your car. Transport companies often have specific pickup and delivery windows, so you need to find a time that works for you and them,
  • Location – finding a company that services your area can be challenging. Additionally, if you live someplace rural, you may have difficulty finding one that will pick up and deliver your car directly to your home,
  • Cost – The cost of car transport can vary depending on many factors, including distance, time of year, and the size and weight of your vehicle. It’s important to get quotes from multiple companies and compare prices,
  • Condition of the vehicle – you may need to prepare your car for transport by cleaning it, removing personal items, and ensuring it is in good working condition. It’s good to take photos of your vehicle before it’s shipped to document pre-existing damage,
  • Insurance – make sure your car is adequately insured during transport. Most auto transport companies offer some insurance, but you must understand what is covered and what isn’t.

Overall, these logistical challenges can be overcome with careful planning and research on how to transport a car. A reputable company and preparation can ensure your move is smooth and hassle-free.

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Should You Ship a Car Across States? Yes, and Here’s Why

Transporting a car across states can be smart and practical for many individuals and families going over long distances; for them, any auto transport tips might work well; they’d also enjoy learning how to pack efficiently for vehicle transportation.

Here are some reasons why you should transport your car with a company.

Saves Time and Effort

Driving a car across states is time-consuming and exhausting. Instead of spending days or weeks on the road, you can have your car picked up from your old location and delivered directly to your new one. This tip is so simple it’ll feel like a professional relocation hack.

Here are some statistics that prove you should ship your car:

  • Driving is time-consuming, requiring many hours or even days on the road. For example, driving from New York City to Los Angeles, a distance of around 2,800 miles, can take about 41 hours of driving time,
  • According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving is a significant cause of car accidents – an estimated 100,000 crashes are reported to the police each year in the US,
  • Long-distance driving exposes you to potential risks, such as accidents, road closures, and weather-related hazards. According to the NHTSA, there were over 36,000 fatalities on US roads in 2019, with many of these accidents caused by driver error or other factors that can be difficult to control during long-distance driving.
According to the NHTSA, there were 636 deaths caused by drowsy driving in 2020. They frequently occur between 12 AM and 6 AM, or late in the afternoon; they happen to mostly single drivers, on rural roads and highways

It’s a Cost-Effective Solution

While it may seem like driving your car to your new destination is the cheapest option, it can be quite expensive. This ordeal requires a lot of gas, food, and lodging, which can add up quickly.

Additionally, if your car requires any maintenance or repairs during the trip, those costs can also add up. Even choosing the cheapest time of the year to move won’t help. It’s better to move safely with a relocation company.

Here are some cost-related statistics to help you decide:

According to the NHTSA, treadwear is crucial on a tire. Using a 100-grade control tire, currently, 24% of tires are rated at 200-300, and 32% at 300-400, meaning many tires on the market don't wear out easily
  • According to the US Department of Energy, the average cost of a gallon of gasoline in the US is currently around $3.17. For a long-distance trip, the total cost of gas can add up quickly, especially for larger vehicles or SUVs that have lower gas mileage,
  • Depending on your travel route and the length of your trip, travel costs can add up quickly. According to a survey by AAA, the average cost of lodging for a one-night stay in the US is around $150. Food costs can also be significant, especially if you eat at restaurants or fast food chains,
  • Long-distance driving can also take a toll on your car, requiring additional maintenance or repairs after the trip. According to a study by AAA, the average cost of car repairs in the US is around $500 per visit. These costs can add up quickly if your car requires multiple repairs or maintenance.

Reduces Wear and Tear on the Vehicle

Relocation anxiety can be challenging; it can make you question whether paying so much is worth it if you’re traveling to the destination anyway. Packing an essentials bag and embarking on a flight while your car’s on a mover trailer is much safer than driving yourself.

For example, if you’re moving from the West to the East Coast or vice versa, there’s no way driving would work in that case. With breaks, that would be up to three days – imagine the wear and tear on your vehicle after 2,800 miles of driving.

Maintenance of a worn-out car costs more than sending it intact, especially in the long run. If you’re frugal, we could argue that spending money is your greatest asset when relocating with a vehicle.

A woman sitting happily in her car
You'll be happier after you've welcomed your shipped car - not while driving

How to Choose the Right Car Shipping Company When Cross-Country Moving

How much does auto transport cost? That’s the question on your mind right now as you’re reading our car transport service praises. Understandably, most people’s first association with a relocation company is a high cost – but that couldn’t be further from the facts.

While sometimes car shipping and moving companies can be pricey, the benefits of their services live on; they keep you sane in the long relocation days and preparations. Here are some tips on choosing the ideal car delivery and relocation company.

Research Car Shipping Companies

The best car transport company can be found easily, but you must research it. Start by looking for different companies online and reading reviews from previous customers. Look for companies with a good track record of delivering cars on time and without damage.

Additionally, check if the company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and has a valid Motor Carrier number, meaning they are licensed to transport cars. Checking all this will make relocation easier and faster.

Get Quotes From Multiple Long-Distance Moving Services

Don’t be afraid to ask for quotes from multiple companies and compare prices, but read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of each. By taking the time to research car shipping companies and choosing a reputable and reliable one, you can ensure that your car is transported safely and efficiently to your new destination.

The man in the video below explains in five quick steps how to search for a good and reliable relocation company. His tips may help you prioritize your search.

If You Want Your Car in the Best Shape, You Should Prepare It for Shipping

Before you hand it over to cross-country movers, you should learn how to pack a car for a move. Preparing it for transport is crucial for its arrival at the destination in the best shape possible.

Check for leaks in the engine, transmission, or brake systems because no one likes a car with a leaky personality. And don’t forget to check the tire pressure – nobody wants a flat tire halfway across the country.

Finally, snap some photos of your car to document any pre-existing damage. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially with your precious ride. By preparing it for transport, you’ll ensure it arrives at your destination looking as good as new and ready to hit the open road again.

Remove All Personal Items From the Vehicle Before Handing It to the Movers

Movers are essential workers, but they’re not babysitters. For them to be able to deliver your vehicle, they have rules on what they will and won’t move. Yes, there are items movers won’t move, even if they’re packed in your vehicle (which they shouldn’t be).

That’s why it’s best to remove all personal items from your car before handing it over to them. This includes things like electronics, valuables, and personal documents. Not only can these items get lost or damaged during transport, but they can also add unnecessary weight to your car, increasing the overall delivery cost.

A hose spraying a black car
Clean your car before transport so you know it's in good condition before it arrives

Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving Is a Company You Can Trust

As you can see, transporting a vehicle is an entire philosophy in itself. Who knew so much goes into this simple task? If you’re looking for a car transport company you can trust to make that task happen, look no further than Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving.

Our reliable and efficient service will have you feeling like you’re driving on an easy street, even if your car is being transported across the country. With a commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction, we’re a company you can count on. If you want to hit the road with peace of mind, hop on board with Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Why You Should Ship Your Car

Why Should I Ship My Car Instead of Driving It Long-Distance?

Shipping your car can be a practical and efficient solution for long-distance moves. It saves time and effort and can be a cost-effective option compared to the expenses associated with long-distance driving.

Additionally, transporting your car can help reduce wear and tear on your vehicle, keep it in better condition, and reduce the risks associated with long-distance driving.

Is It Cost-Effective to Ship a Car?

Car transport can be a cost-effective option compared to the expenses of long-distance driving, such as gas, food, and lodging costs. However, the costs will depend on several factors, such as distance, vehicle type, and delivery service. You should get quotes from multiple auto transport companies and compare prices to find the most cost-effective option.

What Are the Benefits of Shipping a Car?

Car delivery has several benefits, including saving time and effort, reducing wear and tear on your vehicle, and reducing the risks associated with long-distance driving.

On top of that, using an auto transport company can ensure that your car is transported safely and efficiently to your new destination, giving you peace of mind during your move.

How Do I Choose the Right Car Shipping Company?

When choosing a company, you should research and find one that feels reliable and is reputable. Look for companies with good reviews, a track record of delivering cars on time and without damage, and a valid Motor Carrier number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Ask multiple companies for quotes and compare prices for the best option.

What Factors Should I Consider When Getting a Car Delivery Quote?

When getting a car shipping quote, consider factors such as the distance, type of vehicle, delivery service, and any additional services you may require. Read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of the quote, including any insurance coverage or extra fees.

How Do I Prepare My Car for Shipping?

Preparing your car includes cleaning it, removing personal items, checking for leaks, checking tire pressure, and documenting pre-existing damage. These tasks can help prevent damage to your car during transport and ensure it arrives at the destination in good condition.

Can I Put Personal Items in My Car During Transport?

It’s generally recommended to remove all personal items from your car before transporting them. Personal items can add weight to your car, increasing the delivery cost, and can also be lost or damaged in transit. Additionally, companies aren’t liable for personal items left inside during transport.

Will My Car Be Insured During Transport?

Most car transport companies provide insurance coverage for the relocation and delivery process. However, the level of coverage may vary, and it’s crucial to understand the terms and conditions of the insurance policy before transporting your car.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car?

The time it takes to ship a car will depend on several factors, such as the distance, type of vehicle, and type of transportation service. Generally, car delivery can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

What Happens if My Car Is Damaged During Transport?

If your car is damaged during transport, you should immediately notify the company that delivered it and document the damage with photos. Most car transport companies provide insurance coverage for vehicles in transit and will work with you to resolve any issues or claims.

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