A Detailed Guide to Shipping A Car from California to New York

March 1, 2023Car Shipping Essentials
Blake Shaw

Bostonian and residential moving and packing expert. Blake Shaw enjoys bar-hopping, music, and writing insightful content.

Shipping a car from California to New York can be a challenging task – it’s not exactly like mailing a postcard or sending a care package. With the right information and preparation, you can successfully ship your car from coast to coast without a hitch (or a scratch). So, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride as we lay down the detailed guide on shipping a car from California to New York.

Find the Best USA Auto Transport Company

Shipping cars in the USA is not something people started doing yesterday. The industry of shipping has a long history. However, that means there are a lot of companies out there that offer their services, and some are real scammers.

To avoid losing money and spending days worrying about your vehicle, it is important to find the most reliable and trustworthy car shipping company out there. To do so, here is what you should pay attention to:

  • Read customer reviews to get an idea of the quality of the offered services.
  • Make sure the auto transport company has the necessary licenses and insurance to operate legally.
  • Choose a company that is easy to communicate with and provides timely updates on the status of your shipment.
  • Look for a company with a proven track record and experience in transporting cars.

By following these tips, you can find a reliable and overall best auto transport company that meets your specific needs.

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Before Shipping a Car From California to New York Check Company’s Credentials

When choosing a car shipping company, it’s important to check their credentials and track record to ensure you are choosing a reputable and reliable service provider.

For starters check the company’s license. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all auto transport companies to have a valid Motor Carrier Number (MC Number) and a USDOT Number (and getting a DOT number is not easy). These numbers are issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can check the FMCSA’s database to verify a company’s license.

Also, ask the company about their insurance coverage and verify that it is valid and up-to-date. And don’t forget to verify the company’s address and phone number. By taking these steps, you can verify a car shipping company’s credentials and track record, and choose a reputable and reliable service provider.

man searching for a car shipping company
Check all the licenses before hiring cross country car shipping company

Determine the Type of Shipping Service You Need

When it comes to transporting a vehicle across the country, there are several types of car shipping services to choose from. Each type of service offers different levels of protection and cost, so it’s important to determine which service is best for your needs.

For starters, open trailer transport is the most common and affordable option. It involves transporting your car on an open carrier, which is exposed to the elements and potential road debris. While this type of transport offers less protection, it is generally safe and reliable for most cars.

The second one is enclosed auto transport and it is a more expensive option, but offers more protection for your car. Your car will be shipped in an enclosed carrier, protecting it from the elements and potential damage. Enclosed transport is recommended for valuable or exotic cars, or for customers who want added peace of mind during transport.

Enclosed Auto Transport

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Open Carrier Auto Transport

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You Can Also Choose Pick Up and Delivery Options

When you are done battling the battle of open vs enclosed trailers you should consider other benefits of car shipping. One of them is being able to choose different pick-up and delivery options.

Door-to-door auto transport involves picking up and delivering your car directly from your location to the destination. This is a convenient option for customers who do not want to drop off or pick up their car from a terminal.

Terminal-to-terminal car shipping involves dropping off and picking up your car at a designated terminal. This is a more affordable option but may require additional transportation to and from the terminal.

USA Auto Transport
Choose trailer based on your needs and budget

Get a Quote Before Shipping a Car From California to New York

Ah, the dreaded moment of truth – getting a quote for shipping your car from California to New York. It’s like trying to decipher the menu at a fancy restaurant – you know you’re going to have to shell out some cash, but you’re not entirely sure how much or what you’re paying for. But don’t panic just yet! Getting a quote for car shipping can be an informative and even entertaining experience (if you have a particularly charismatic agent on the phone, that is).

Just remember to ask plenty of questions. The more questions you ask the less likely you are to get scammed. Get information about the prices, fees, and additional charges companies can charge you. And remember, if you hire a reputable and reliable company such as USA Auto Transport you won’t have to worry about getting a different price at the beginning and at the end of the shipping process.

Our crew takes pride in providing customers with a transparent quote. We are not lowballing the customers and every charge will be explained to you in advance. All you should do is give us a call and our agents will take care of the rest.

What Are the Factors That May Affect the Cost of Shipping a Car From California to New York

When transporting a car from California to New York, there are several factors that can affect the cost. Here are some of the most common factors you should know about before the start of the process:

  • Distance between the pickup and delivery locations is one of the biggest factors that can affect the cost of shipping. The farther the distance, the higher the cost.
  • The time of year can also have an impact on how much the shipping cost. The peak season for car transport is typically in the summer months, so you may pay more if you are shipping during this time.
  • The size, weight, and type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, may require a larger transport truck, which can be more expensive.
  • The type of service you choose can also affect the cost. Open transport is generally less expensive than enclosed transport, but it may not provide as much protection for your vehicle.
  • The location of the pickup and delivery locations can also affect the cost. If you are shipping to or from a remote or rural location, you may pay more.

These are just some of the factors that can affect the cost of transport. It’s always a good idea to talk to the relocation crew and ask them to help you make the best decision for your car as well as for your budget.

A woman counting money needed for a car shipping company
There is more than one factor that affects the overall price

Prepare Your Car for Shipping

Shipping a vehicle can be a stressful process, but taking the time to properly prepare your car for transport can help ensure a smooth and successful experience. Here are some tips on how to prepare your car for shipping across the country:

  • Clean your four-wheeler thoroughly – Before the beginning of the process, give your four-wheeler a thorough wash and clean out the interior. This will make it easier to inspect for any damage before and after transport.
  • Remove personal items – Take out any objects from your vehicle, including GPS devices, phone chargers, and other accessories. Also, remove any loose items in the trunk or back seat.
  • Inspect your vehicle for damage – Take note of any existing damage on your machine before the move, such as scratches, dents, or other imperfections. Take photos of any damage and make sure the driver notes it on the inspection report.
  • Check the battery – Make sure your car’s battery is fully charged and in good condition. A dead battery can cause problems during transport and may lead to additional fees.
  • Check the tires – Make sure your car’s tires are properly inflated and in good condition. This will help ensure your machine is safe to transport. If they are not it is best to change them beforehand.
  • Check the fluids – Make sure your car’s fluids, including oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, are all topped off. This will help prevent any leaks or other issues during transport.
  • Disable the alarm – If your vehicle has an alarm system, make sure to disable it before the move. The alarm can be a nuisance to the driver and may cause delays or additional fees.
  • Secure any loose parts – If your car has any loose parts, such as a spoiler or antenna, make sure to secure them before moving.
  • Leave only a small amount of fuel – It’s recommended to only leave a small amount of fuel in your machine, typically no more than a quarter tank. This will help reduce the weight of your car and make it easier to transport.

By following these tips, you can properly prepare your machine for transport. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the car shipping company for guidance.

Man washing car
Wash your vehicle before the move

Home Sweet Home – What to Do When Your Car Arrives from California to New York

Well, you’ve made it to the end of the road – your four-wheeler has successfully been shipped from California to New York! You’ve survived the ups and downs of the car shipping process. Now it’s time to buckle up and enjoy the ride as your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

Hiring USA Auto Transport can be exactly what you need to make the shipping process smooth and stress-free. We can ship your vehicle from Los Angeles to New York or any other place in California. All you have to do is give us a call, choose the trailer and the delivery option, and book the date. The rest is up to us. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the thrill of the open road – or at least the thrill of having your machine delivered to your doorstep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping a Car From California to New York

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car From California to New York?

The typical timeframe for shipping a vehicle from California to New York is between 7-14 days. However, the exact time frame can vary depending on factors such as the distance between the pickup and delivery locations, the type of transport service chosen, and any unforeseen delays.

Is It Safe to Ship a Car From California to New York?

Yes, it is generally safe to ship a four-wheeler from California to New York with a reputable and experienced car shipping company. However, it’s important to properly prepare your machine for transport to minimize any risks.

What Is the Difference Between Open and Enclosed Transport?

The main difference between open and enclosed transport is the level of protection offered to your machine during transport. Open transport involves transporting your vehicle on an open carrier, which is exposed to the elements and may be subject to road debris, dust, and weather conditions. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, involves hauling your vehicle in an enclosed carrier, providing more protection from the elements and potential damage. Enclosed transport is typically more expensive than open transport, but may be worth it for valuable or exotic cars.

Can I Track My Car During Shipping From California to New York?

Yes, many vehicle shipping companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor the status and location of your machine during transport from California to New York. This can give you peace of mind and help you plan for the arrival of your vehicle.

Will My Car Be Insured During Transport?

Yes, your four-wheeler will be insured. USA Auto Transport offers insurance for both open and enclosed trailers. Give us a call to learn more about our policies.

Can I Ship Personal Items Inside My Car?

It is generally not recommended to ship personal items inside your machine during transport from California to New York. Most car shipping companies do not allow personal items to be shipped inside the vehicle due to safety and liability reasons. Any personal items left inside the machine may shift during transport and cause damage to the car or other items.

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