When shipping a car, whether interstate or overseas, there
are many different shipping methods available to you, each with its advantages
and disadvantages.
Prep your car for shipping:
-
Wash your car thoroughly, to be able to easily
note any chips, dings or other cosmetic damage accurately.
-
Make a complete report of any pre-existing
damage to your car. Pictures can play a vital part.
-
Remove all your personal belongings from the
car.
-
Shut off and disable the car alarm.
-
Don’t fill the gas tank, this will save quite a
bit of weight.
-
Secure or remove any loose parts or specialty
items, such as ground effects, spoilers, or for lights.
-
Fold back your mirrors.
-
Lower and retract the antennae.
-
If you own a convertible, ship with the top up
and secured properly.
There are several ways to
transport a car. The most popular one is using an auto shipper. Some auto
shippers are known as carriers, these companies actually move the vehicle.
Other transporting companies are known as brokerages, and they are the ones
that will be arranging the vehicle transport between you and the carrier. They
are the middlemen that offer convenience and reliability but will respectively
run you a bit higher than hiring a carrier yourself.
Most carriers will put cars on an
open-air trailer, exposing your vehicle to the elements of nature and road
debris while being transported. It is a more frequently used option and is
normally cheaper than closed trailers. Open-air trailers are also lighter and
more fuel efficient, therefore doing less damage to the environment.
If you are transporting a luxury
car or a rare classic and are concerned about the effects of weather on your
vehicle, you might want to consider using an enclosed truck. They offer
protection for your vehicle from weather conditions and road debris. Enclosed
trailers offer better overall security than open-air trailers. The cost of
using an enclosed trailer is typically 60% higher than it’s counter part,
although well worth it when transporting an expensive car.
If you are on a tight budget, you
might want to look into Driveaway services. These transportation companies
provide a driver to pilot your car from point A to point B. Although a much
cheaper option, it leaves your car vulnerable to elements and potential driver
error.
If you are shipping a car
overseas, you have an option of using a sea freight service that will move your
car via a cargo container. However you must do your homework when shipping a
car overseas, it can quickly become a headache if you don’t have proper
documentation. There are laws and customs regulations that vary from country to
country. You may want to call the embassy of the country you are shipping to
learn more. When you hire a professional auto shipper specializing in carrying
vehicles across the ocean, they will guide you in acquiring all the necessary
paperwork needed.
If you have no budget cap and want
to have your vehicle delivered in a timely manner, consider using an airfreight
service that will fly your car over to your destination.
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