The car transportation industry is worth an estimated $11 billion. And with the number of people that are now moving to different parts of the country, it’s no wonder that this industry is booming.
If you’re in the process of moving to a new city or state, you may be wondering what your options are for shipping your car. There are a few different ways to ship your car, and it really depends on your budget and timeline as to which option is best for you.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different auto shipping options available and help you decide which one is the best for you.
Enclosed Car Shipping
For those who want to ship their car with an extra level of protection, enclosed car shipping is the way to go.
Enclosed carriers are larger than open carriers and can typically only carry one or two vehicles at a time. Because they are fully enclosed, your car will be protected from the elements and from being shifted around during transit.
However, enclosed carrier services come with a higher price tag than open carrier services. If you’re shipping a luxury or high-end vehicle, or if you simply want the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car is fully protected during transport, an enclosed carrier is the best option.
If you have the budget for it and you’re looking for the safest way to ship your car, then enclosed car shipping is the best option for you. But if you’re on a tight timeline, you might want to consider one of the other options below.
Open Car Shipping
One of the most popular ways to ship a car is via open carrier. Open carriers are large trucks that can carry multiple vehicles at once. Auto dealerships and manufacturers typically use them to transport new cars from one location to another.
If you choose to ship your car on an open carrier, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, your car will be exposed to the elements during transport, so it’s essential to ensure it’s clean and free of any loose items before loading onto the truck.
Second, your car will likely shift around during transit, so make sure all loose items are secure inside the vehicle. Finally, keep in mind that open carriers typically have a longer transit time than enclosed carriers, so plan accordingly. Be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect your vehicle during transport.
Full-Service Car Shipping
Full-service car shipping is the best option if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to ship your car. When you opt for this option, the auto transport company will pick up your car at your home or office and deliver it to your destination.
You can even schedule door-to-door delivery in most cases, which means the carrier will pick up your car and deliver it right to your doorstep. Full-service shipping is the most convenient option available, but it’s also increasingly expensive.
Moreover, full-service carriers are often booked weeks or even months in advance, so it’s important to plan ahead if you choose this option.
Economy Car Shipping
Economy car shipping is the most popular and affordable option for those looking to ship their car. Economy shipping generally takes between five and seven days but could be longer depending on the distance your car needs to travel. This shipping method is perfect for those who are not in a hurry to get their car delivered.
This is an excellent option if you’re looking for a balance between affordability and convenience. With economy shipping, your car will be delivered to a terminal near your destination, where you can then pick it up at your convenience.
It’s often less expensive than full-service shipping, but it’s still more convenient than open carrier shipping. Keep in mind that transit times may vary depending on the route and carrier availability, so plan accordingly.
How to Choose the Best Car Shipping Option
Now that you know the best car shipping options available, how do you choose the best one for you? Here are a few factors to consider:
How Fast Do You Need Your Car Shipped?
If you’re in a hurry to get your car delivered, then full-service or economy shipping is not the best option. Instead, you’ll want to opt for open carrier shipping, the fastest way to ship a car. Keep in mind that your car will be exposed to the elements during transport.
On the other hand, enclosed carrier shipping is the best option if you have the time and budget for it. Not only is your car protected from the elements, but it’s also less likely to be damaged during transit.
How Far Is Your Car Traveling?
If you want to ship your car to another state, open carrier shipping is the best option. This is because open carriers can transport multiple cars at once, which helps keep costs down.
However, if you’re only shipping your car a short distance, then full-service or enclosed shipping are great. These methods are typically faster and more convenient. Just keep in mind that they can also be more expensive.
What’s Your Budget?
Your budget is likely the most crucial factor to consider when choosing a car shipping option. If you’re on a tight budget, economy car shipping is the best option as it’s typically the most affordable way to ship a car.
However, if you have a little more room in your budget, open-air shipping is a great option. Just be sure to compare rates before booking any services.
Are You Shipping Multiple Vehicles?
If you have more than one vehicle to ship, you might be able to get a discount from auto shipping companies. This is especially true if you are shipping multiple vehicles to the same destination.
Opt for open carrier shipping if you’re on a budget because most carriers take multiple vehicles at a time, and the costs are bound to be lower. Still, you may consider economy shipping if you’re looking for a balance of affordability and convenience.
Do You Need Your Car Shipped to a Specific Location?
Some auto shipping companies will only ship cars to certain locations. This is usually because they have terminals in specific cities or states. If you need your car shipped to a specific location, ask the company if they offer this service or outright choose full-service shipping.
Keep these factors in mind when considering your options, and you’ll be sure to choose the best way to ship your car. Furthermore, be sure to do your research and get quotes from multiple car shipping companies before making a decision. With a little bit of planning, you can have your car shipped without any hassle.
How to Ship Your Car: The Best Car Shipping Options
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best way to ship your car. But if you take the time to do your research and compare quotes, you’ll be sure to find the best option for you.
Keep in mind the different types of shipping available and your budget and shipping timeline. With that information, you can make an informed decision and have your car shipped with ease.
Do you have more questions about shipping your car? Check out our blog for more articles on auto transport.
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