What to Expect When You Ship a Car to California

The Golden State Awaits – Why Ship Your Car to California Instead of Driving It

Now, is it time to move for you and add to that already whopping number of vehicles? Maybe you’re relocating for a job, starting college, or retiring to enjoy the sunny weather, and the prized ride is a must-have for these new adventures.

But I know what you’re thinking – why ship my car to California instead of simply driving it? Sure, the first thought might be an epic road trip, but the reality of countless miles, potential breakdowns, and endless gas stops quickly sets in. Here’s why reliable auto transport is the better option:

• Save time – Long-distance driving eats up days, whereas car shipping lets you fly in and get straight to the fun,
• Avoid wear and tear – Such long drives can add a lot of wear and tear to the car, so you can save on potential repair costs,
• Less stress – The open road can be unpredictable, and driving stress is a very real thing, but auto transport can eliminate any worries you may have,
• Stay safe – Fatigue and unfamiliar roads increase the chances of accidents, so the safety of anyone in the vehicle might be compromised,
• Environmental impact – Fewer individual trips mean less fuel consumption and lower emissions, making it a greener choice.

What’s in the Price Tag? Factors Affecting Shipping Costs

The cost to ship a car to California can vary based on a few key factors. Distance, for one, plays a significant role – the farther the four-wheeler needs to travel, the higher the cost. The type of vehicle matters too – transporting a compact city car will cost less than a massive SUV. Then there’s the choice between open and enclosed auto transport, which can significantly affect the price – but more on that in just a second.

Finding the Shipping Partner – Picking the Right Auto Transport Company

So, you’ve decided to ship the car to another state – in this case, to California. Great choice! Now, the first thing you need is a reliable car shipping company. But, with nearly 5,000 such businesses in the US, finding the right one can be tricky. After all, this is about your prized ride – you need a team that will treat it like the precious cargo it is.

To make sure the company is legit, start by reading reviews. Also, make sure they’re registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Look for their USDOT number, check their safety record, and don’t be shy about asking questions. Think of it as a first date – you need to know if they’re reliable before committing.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport – What’s the Real Deal for the Vehicle?

The open trailer is the most common and affordable option. The vehicle will be exposed to the elements and surrounded by other four-wheelers, but there’s no need to worry – it’s still safe. This option is perfect for standard cars and saving on moving costs – it’s reliable and gets the job done without breaking the bank.

On the other hand, the enclosed trailer is like the VIP treatment. The four-wheeler will be protected from weather, road debris, and prying eyes. This is the go-to choice for luxury, classic, or exotic cars. It might cost more, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.

Door-To-Door vs. Terminal-To-Terminal Car Shipping – Here’s the Scoop

Industry professionals such as USA Auto Transport also offer different options when it comes to the type of delivery. Door-to-door auto transport is the ultimate convenience. The carrier picks up the car from your home and delivers it right to the new address. No muss, no fuss – shipping cars in the USA has never been quite this easy!

Terminal-to-terminal shipping, on the other hand, requires a bit more effort. You drop off the car at a terminal and pick it up at another terminal close to the new city. It’s cheaper than door-to-door service but can be less convenient, especially if the terminals happen to be further away.

Buckle Up! Here’s How to Prepare the Four-Wheeler for Car Shipping to California

Even though the professionals will handle the transport, there are still some crucial steps you need to take to prepare the car for shipping. After all, you’re basically sending the four-wheeler on a mini vacation, so you need to make sure it’s packed and ready for the journey. Let’s dive into the prep work to ensure it arrives in style, ready to conquer the West Coast.

Charge Up and Chill – What About Prepping an Electric Vehicle for the Big Move?

In the US, there are over 3 million electric vehicles on the road today, so chances are you might be wondering how to prep an EV for transport. Sure, the thorough wash and interior cleaning are still crucial, but EVs come with their own set of quirks.

First things first, make sure the car is charged enough for the drive to and from the truck. Around 50% of the battery’s capacity is more than enough.

Also, secure the charging cable. You don’t want that precious cable bouncing around and getting damaged. Coil it up neatly and stow it away safely. Make sure the software is up to date – you don’t want to miss out on any important updates while it’s on its journey.

The Waiting Game – How Long Will It Take to Ship a Car to California?

Now, the big question is – how long will shipping cars to California take? Well, it all depends on the distance, of course. For example, if it’s being transported from Florida, you can expect it to take about 7 to 10 days. But if you’re moving from somewhere closer, like Arizona, it might only take a couple of days. Just remember, there’s always the possibility of unexpected delays, like bad weather or traffic jams, so these are just ballpark figures.

Handing Over the Keys – Here’s What to Expect When the Big Day Comes

The big day has finally arrived! The car is about to embark on its journey to the Golden State, finally. It’s like sending your kid off to college, except this time you’re more worried about dings and scratches than grades. Here’s what to expect when the transport company arrives at your doorstep (if you went with the door-to-door option):

• The driver will do a thorough inspection of the car and note any existing damage,
• You’ll need to sign a Bill of Lading and any other necessary documents,
• You will hand over the keys, but keep a spare set just in case.

Welcome to Cali – Inspecting the Ride on Arrival

Before you take the car for a spin down Pacific Coast Highway, give it a good once-over. Check for any new scratches, dings, or dents that might have occurred during transport. Use those pre-shipping photos as a reference. If you spot any new damage, make sure to report it immediately. But hopefully, the four-wheeler will be in perfect condition and ready to enjoy its new home in the Golden State.

It’s Time to Hit the Road – Your Car’s California Dreamin’ Adventure Awaits

From prepping the vehicle to handing off the keys, you’re now ready to handle the whole ordeal like a pro. Whether it’s soaking up the sun in San Diego, cruising the streets of San Francisco, or heading for the hills of Hollywood, the car’s Californian adventure is about to begin. You better start planning all the places you’ll explore in the Golden State!

As you’re daydreaming about the road trips that await, let USA Auto Transport get the car there safely and smoothly. With years of experience and a commitment to secure transport, we even offer moving services to help you handle every aspect of the relocation. Contact us today – your ride deserves the best, and so do you!