All You Need to Know About Alaska Car Transport

February 4, 2020Car Shipping Essentials
Hannah Michaelson

Hannah is a freelance relocation writer from NYC that has become an expert on packing and unpacking.

When one thinks of Alaska, the first thing that pops into their mind is snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. If you choose to visit the Land of the Midnight Sun or have plans to relocate there – perhaps to Anchorage – you should ask yourself how to find a reliable Alaska car transport service.

There are many reasons why you should ship your car to this extreme state, including a chance to take a drive to some of its amazing natural sights. Even though it may sound like a rollercoaster of uncertainties, with the right organization and professional company with lots of experience and top-notch services by your side, it could go as easily as possible. With our handy guide, you’ll find out how to carry out the process stress-free and how to prepare your vehicle for shipping.

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What You Should Know About Alaska Car Transport – General Guidelines

If you’re planning to relocate to Alaska, keep in mind how many miles and what types of terrain you have to cross. In case you’re thinking about taking a risk and driving by yourself, be aware of all the difficulties and obstacles on the way. Hiring a vehicle carrier might be the best option if you want to make the whole process as convenient and comfortable for you as possible.

There are several factors you should keep in mind before making the final step of diving into the adventure called the Last Frontier. We narrowed down the list to help you make your preparations more efficient:

  • Plan your journey ahead of time. This provides you with the opportunity to schedule the start of the shipping process and pick up the car where you want it.
  • Make sure your chosen company can transport your automobile to the desired destination. Many parts of the state are not so easily accessible, so not every shipper will take up the job. You can always check the company’s reviews online, read other customers’ testimonials, and ask about pricing and seasonal discount details.
  • Prepare your car ahead of the pickup date.Don’t forget that your four-wheeler might be traveling at a time of year with harsh weather conditions, including frequent snowfall and potential blizzards.
Car shipping on an open trailer
Bear in mind that the northernmost US state sees a lot of snow and severe weather, so prepare your car thoroughly

Shipping to/from Alaska

When it comes to transporting your car to or from Alaska, you shouldn’t take into consideration only the financial aspect, but have a broader picture of the overall process. In other words, depending on the type of service you choose, check whether the company has the equipment and skill needed to pull this job off. Whether you’re transporting the car in a container or employing a roll-on/roll-off service, it should get the best possible protection.

What Types of Vehicles Can Be Shipped and Where

In case you can’t drive your car to a port or terminal, professional shippers will meet your needs and pick up your vehicle at a time and place that best suits you. They provide direct auto shipping services to some of the state’s most significant cities such as Anchorage, Juneau, Valdez, Nikiski, Kivalina, etc., and you can schedule your shipment with special offers and discount rates.

Besides passenger automobiles, long-distance auto transport companies usually specialize in shipping many other types of vehicles, such as:

  • Motorcycles
  • Boats
  • Luxury and classic cars
  • Trucks
  • Pickups
  • Vans
  • Crossovers and jeeps

How Much Does It Cost to Transport a Vehicle from a Port of Origin to Alaska and Vice Versa

The cost of car shipping services depends on several factors, not only on the distance. The make and model of the car is a factor, too. The final price could be based on:

  • Supply/demand situation due to the fluctuations in the market
  • Seasonality
  • Car make and model
  • Type of carrier – open or enclosed
  • Whether the car is operable or inoperable
  • The total distance

For example, if you need to transport your small sedan via an open carrier from Los Angeles, the average costs would be $2900, and from New York to Alaska – $3500. To find out how much your car shipping cost could be, you should call your chosen company and request a free quote.

USA Auto Transport
Whether you’re planning to ship your car to the Land Frontier, or from it - the process is almost the same

What Are Relevant Items and Documentation for Auto Shipping

Moving to the Land of the Midnight Sun could be both a daunting and demanding undertaking. But, if you take all the necessary steps on time, you will reduce the risk of any mishaps. Besides making sure your car is in good working condition, without issues with running, driving, or braking, there are several other things you shouldn’t ignore.

Current Certificate of Registration is a Must to Ship Your Auto

All licenses and registrations must be up-to-date and valid on public highways or streets. Don’t forget that you’ll have to provide the necessary paperwork for your upcoming auto shipping, which includes:

  • A copy of the complete VIN (vehicle identification number), registration, and driver’s license
  • A signed copy of the terms and conditions (you should read it carefully before signing)
  • Certificate of Ownership
  • Current Certificate of Registration
  • Lien holder’s authorization form (in case the vehicle is still under a lien)
  • A booking reservation number

What Else to Take Into Consideration When It Comes to Transportation?

All vehicles must be in operating condition with a functional emergency brake. Keep in mind that shipping ports and terminals have the right to reject any car if it doesn’t comply with the requirements for safe transport.

Here’s a checklist you should follow to prepare your car for shipment:

  • Wash your car
  • Remove any belongings
  • Leave ¼ tank of fuel
  • Fill up the antifreeze
  • Remove the fire extinguisher
  • Empty propane tanks for auxiliary usage
the person signing the contract
Auto transport requires plenty of paperwork you should deal with

Several Ways of Transporting Your Car

Depending on your budget and the type of car you’re planning to relocate, you can choose among several options:

  • With an open carrier
  • With an enclosed carrier
  • Terminal-to-terminal
  • Door-to-door transportation
usa auto transport truck
If you have a luxury model, you can choose the enclosed carrier and protect your vehicle from potential damage

Track Your Shipment Online

Wondering how long it will take to ship your car? It depends on plenty of factors. Transporting from Chicago to an Alaskan port takes about 5-7 days, and from there, it’s going to take another 6-7 days for the vehicle to reach Anchorage or Fairbanks. That means the duration of transport depends on your exact location. Sometimes, it could take about a month to deliver it to Alaska. You can always call your mover’s logistics experts and discuss your shipping time and options.

One more advantage of hiring a professional company to move your four-wheeler is the possibility of tracking the progress of your shipment online 24 hours a day. Once you receive your unique booking number after scheduling the shipment, you’ll be able to track the status of your Alaska car transport service.

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