When it comes to shipping a car, there is a lot of misinformation floating around out there. Some people think it’s expensive, some think it’s dangerous, and others think it’s just too complicated. In this blog post, we’re going to dispel some of those myths and misconceptions about car shipping and help you understand the real scoop on the process. Read on to learn more!
Many industries have found themselves in a prolonged recovery phase after the pandemic. This includes auto transport services, with lingering supply chain issues and driver shortages making it tough to get vehicles where they need to go.
Despite efforts to adapt, the industry has yet to fully bounce back.
In fact, the American Trucking Association (ATA) reports a shortage of a staggering 80,000 truck drivers, a number that can easily double in just a few years. It’s clear the pandemic’s impact won’t disappear overnight. That’s why now, more than ever, it’s important to bust some car shipping myths and get the show on the road again.
One of the best car shipping advice you can get is not to trust everything people tell you. There are plenty of auto transport misconceptions out there, and if you start believing them, moving to another state will start to sound like mission impossible.
Those who are not well-informed will tell you that using an auto transport company is super expensive, or that preparing a vehicle for transport is very difficult. However, none of this is true – not even close. So, let’s check out and debunk some common myths about car shipping. After all, shipping cars in the USA shouldn’t be as head-scratching as dealing with a bad clutch master cylinder.
One of the most common myths out there is concerned with pricing. However, this is not as simple as some people might tell you – it’s not based on the distance alone.
Sure, distance is an important part of the equation when it comes to vehicle transportation prices, but it’s definitely not the only factor companies use. There are various other elements that can affect your final quote. For example, the type of vehicle, the carrier, and the precise delivery date are some of the few factors that will affect the pricing.
More often than not, people expect to get a flawless car shipping service for the lowest amount of money. On the other hand, it can be upsetting to be slapped with unforeseen expenses, especially when you’re already paying for moving services. However, it’s crucial to avoid presuming that high fees will always be involved.
All of this can be easily prevented if you choose the best moving company to assist you. Just check if the company is legitimate, meaning, it is licensed and insured. If it is there is a really small chance you’ll be scammed and charged with hidden fees and additional unrealistic costs.
Also, you should go over the reviews of previous clients. Those can really tell you the way the company conducts business and if its prices are transparent and fair.
Driving through the city is a completely different experience from crossing the state borders. You must factor in the amount of time needed for a trip of this length while driving thousands of miles across the country.
With all the stops you’ll need to make along the way, a coast-to-coast journey can take several days. Even if you’re sticking to the same coast, it can be a whole trip. For example, from Florida to New York, there are around 1,150 miles. This can take somewhere between 18 to 20 hours of driving in total, not to mention the gas and toll expenses that can easily go over $200. And don’t forget the hotel you will need to spend a night in!
Now take this, double it, and you’ve got a coast-to-coast road trip. Sounds exhausting, right? Car shipping is a simpler, safer, and more efficient option, especially when done with industry professionals such as USA Auto Transport. Moreover, you’ve got an accelerated shipping option so that you can get your prized ride to its destination as quickly as possible.
You’ve probably seen open trailers on the road before, hauling multiple cars at once. Plenty of people will tell you that it’s the only way to transport a vehicle, but that’s far from the truth.
Sure, it’s the most budget-friendly and easy option, making it a popular choice. However, there’s also an enclosed carrier, which offers a higher level of protection for your four-wheeler. It involves a fully covered trailer, shielding the vehicle from weather, road debris, and other potential hazards. As such, this method is particularly beneficial for classic, high-value, or luxury cars.
When you’re working with a true team of professionals, you’ll get plenty of options. There’s not just terminal-to-terminal car shipping – door-to-door auto transport is there too. There’s a misconception about how this service is super rare, but the truth is, customers forget to ask about it. That’s why you should, before selecting the best shipping company, ensure that this option is available by asking a simple question.
Door-to-door auto transport will, overall, save you a lot of time. You won’t have to drive the four-wheeler to a designated terminal – professionals will come to pick it up right in front of your house. And what’s even better is they will deliver it to a place you wish.
The process of getting your car ready for transfer is simpler than you would imagine. It is actually fairly easy. Basically, all you need to do is get all your personal items out of the car and remove all mobile parts of the interior.
Also, before transport, fill up your petrol tank to the halfway mark, and take care of any necessary car maintenance. Let the professional mechanic check if your machine needs tire replacement or changing some spark plugs. Pro tip – wash your car and take photos of it. They will come in handy if you need to claim insurance for the damage that occurred during the transport.
People make a mistake and overfill their cars with stuff before shipping them. This can put you in hot waters with movers. Before you pack your clothes in the trunk or some other furniture, don’t forget to ask movers just how much luggage can be stored in the four-wheeler. Furthermore, make sure you know which items movers won’t move, and avoid further problems.
Many people think the auto transport industry is riddled with scams and dishonest companies. While some bad apples exist, the majority are reputable and committed to excellent service.
To ensure you choose a trustworthy provider, check for a USDOT number and verify their registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Look for companies with positive reviews, proper licensing, and transparent pricing. Doing your research and checking credentials can help you avoid scams and have a smooth, worry-free experience.
When it’s all said and done, there are still a lot of unknowns related to shipping a vehicle. Luckily, when you hire a professional car shipping company they will answer all of your questions. Furthermore, they will help you choose between open trailers and enclosed auto transport, as well as pick-up and delivery methods.
Don’t let the myths and misconceptions fool you – shipping a vehicle is the fastest way to get it to the desired location, all while avoiding driving anxiety, or even road rage. So, don’t hesitate to contact us. With USA Auto Transport, the whole ordeal will be easier than navigating through rush hour traffic.
