The thought of driving your car across hundreds of miles when relocating to a new city—or even across the country—can be daunting. This is where car shipping companies come into play, offering a convenient and efficient solution for transporting your vehicle from one location to another. While car shipping is a widely known service, there are several surprising aspects of the industry that many people don’t realize. Here are five interesting facts about auto transport companies that will certainly make you rethink the car shipping process.
1. The Open vs. Enclosed Transport Debate
When it comes to car shipping, the two primary transport methods are open and enclosed carriers. Open carriers are the most popular and affordable option, where your car is transported on an open trailer exposed to the elements. While this method is perfectly safe for most vehicles, some high-end luxury cars and vintage models require a bit more care. Enclosed carriers offer additional protection by keeping your vehicle shielded from weather conditions, road debris, and other external factors. As a result, auto transport companies often recommend enclosed transport for valuable or classic cars to maintain their pristine condition throughout the journey.
2. The Influence of Seasonal Demand
Car shipping may be a year-round service, but it is highly influenced by the seasons. Summer tends to be a peak time for moving, with people relocating for new jobs, college students heading off to school, and families taking vacations. This increased demand means longer wait times and potentially higher prices. Conversely, during the winter months, demand slows down, which can result in lower prices and quicker delivery times. If you’re looking to save on shipping costs and avoid delays, consider scheduling your auto transport during the off-peak season.
3. Size and Weight Matter
The cost of shipping your vehicle is heavily influenced by its size and weight. Larger, heavier cars take up more space on a carrier and often cost more to transport. Additionally, certain oversized vehicles may require special permits, which can lead to additional charges. To get an accurate quote from car shipping companies, it’s essential to provide details about your car’s size and weight. This way, the auto transport company can make the proper arrangements and give you an accurate price estimate.
4. Proper Preparation is Key
Before your car is shipped, there are several steps you should take to ensure a smooth process. First, clean both the interior and exterior of your vehicle to allow for an accurate inspection before it’s loaded onto the transport truck. It’s also recommended to take detailed photos of your car to document its condition in case of any disputes later. Remember to remove all personal belongings from the car, as most car shipping companies do not cover personal items in their insurance. Finally, it’s important to leave the gas tank at no more than 25% full to reduce weight and prevent safety issues during transport.
5. Insurance Coverage for Peace of Mind
One of the most important considerations when shipping your car is ensuring proper insurance coverage. While reputable auto transport companies take extensive precautions to protect your vehicle, unforeseen accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s crucial to have sufficient insurance to cover potential damages during transit. Most car shipping companies are required to carry liability insurance, which covers accidents, collisions, or other incidents caused by the transport company. However, it’s essential to understand the limitations of this coverage, as some companies may offer lower coverage than the actual value of your car. If you own a high-value or luxury vehicle, you may want to purchase additional insurance to fully protect your investment during transit.
Conclusion
The world of car shipping is filled with unique aspects that many people may not consider when looking to transport their vehicle. From the choice between open and enclosed transport to understanding seasonal demand and the importance of proper vehicle preparation, there’s a lot more to shipping your car than you might think. By learning more about the auto transport company process and these fascinating facts, you can make more informed decisions and enjoy a smooth, worry-free car shipping experience. Whether you’re moving across the country or just across town, car shipping companies can help make the journey easier.