Did you recently purchase a car from another country but are worried about how to ship it to your doorstep? Are you interested in knowing how moving cars across the country works? Continue reading as you’ll learn how to ship your car nationwide today.
Shipping a car is stressful but shouldn’t be complicated; it’s a delicate process requiring you to have available options to transport your vehicle safely with less wear and tear. A vast range of services can be used to ensure shipping your car nationwide safely. Below are some available means of moving cars across the country.
Transport Methods When Shipping A Car Across Country
Two well-known methods are enclosed and open transport, each with pros and cons.
1. Open Transport
It’s the most affordable and popular option. It involves moving your car on an open-air carrier. While this method exposes your vehicle to road and weather conditions, it’s safe and mainly used for standard models and makes.
2. Enclosed Transport
In contrast, if your ride is a vintage, exotic, or luxury vehicle, you should consider this shipping method. In this transport, your vehicle is placed in an enclosed carrier, protecting it from road debris and elements. Go here to learn more.
Ways To Ship A Car Across Country
How a car reaches a destination varies. Your route choice might be based on convenience, necessity, or budget, which can affect the time your vehicle is delivered.
This section focuses on well-known shipping methods, each with advantages and disadvantages. The various modes of transportation include;
1. Port To Port Shipping
This means it takes much more time than most transport modes and is often less expensive. It’s popular among individuals who want to ship their cars to another country, such as military personnel and executives who have transferred to a new office.
It includes a range of cars, from standard vehicles to large ones like semi-trucks and trucks. The extra-large vehicles such as truck trailers, heavy-duty wheeled, and agricultural vehicles are rolled inside a cargo vessel and secured without being placed in a container.
The mode of shipment is less expensive and efficient but the riskiest. RORO (Roll on/Roll off) shipping is the standard method. It’s faster than lift-on and lift-off shipping but not entirely safe. Your vehicle will be exposed throughout the journey until it reaches your destination.
Once it gets to the country, it’s rolled off the ship and transported to the closest vehicle delivery terminal; in some cases, it can be delivered to your doorstep or an already agreed location.
2. Air Freight
This mode is for individuals who want their vehicle delivered urgently. For instance, if transporting a vehicle via ground shipment takes up to seven days, this mode takes only one day.
It’s an expensive mode of moving cars to another country and can be used if there’s a unique circumstance, such as moving specialty cars, military vehicles, race cars, etc.
It’s also used to transport vehicles that are hard to reach from a sea perspective. Also, for cars with high value, this means guarantees the safety of your vehicle during shipping.
Many people request this shipping method to protect their vehicle from potential damage. Do not choose this shipping mode if you want a cost-effective option.
3. Container Shipping
This is the most popular method for cross-country vehicle shipping as it offers valuable benefits. Cars are placed in a specialized and protective container, loaded carefully, and secured using straps and ramps for excellent protection and safety throughout the voyage.
You can share a container and ship your vehicle with other vehicles to cut moving costs. However, if you want to ship a valuable vehicle, opt for a separate container so your mind can be at ease. This method allows you to store items inside the car when transported.
Guide On How To Ship A Car Across Country
Shipping your car doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these tips, you’ll be able to cruise through the process.
1. Explore And Choose A Reputable And Reliable Car moving company
Start your journey by researching vehicle moving companies. Go for reputable and experienced carriers with an excellent track record.
Ensure to evaluate their pricing, services, insurance policies, and customer reviews both offline and online. Also, check their registration with the DOT (Department of Transport).
2. Ask And Compare Quotes Of Different Moving Companies
After narrowing down your choices, request quotes. Ensure you provide the right information about your vehicle and location to get precise estimates. Compare the quotes, but bear in mind that the cheapest quote isn’t always the best. Visit https://www.cartalk.com/car-shipping/how-to-ship-a-car for more information.
3. Track Your Vehicles Journey
Once you’re informed that your vehicle is on its way, use the tracking service provided by the car moving company. This tracking service allows you to monitor your vehicle’s journey until it reaches your destination.
4. Receive And Inspect
Once your car arrives, carefully inspect it for potential damage that might have occurred while in transit. Check the car’s mileage and compare it with the initial reading. If everything is in excellent condition, sign off on the car’s delivery.
The information in this article will help you make better and more informed choices when moving a car across your country. Ensure you choose the right moving company that will keep you updated every step of the way.
