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Moving anywhere can become a stressful experience, especially when it is a cross-country move. According to , in 2024, over 25 million Americans moved, with California, Texas, and Florida seeing the highest number of moves that year. These statistics indicate a growing need for cross-country auto transport.
While a road trip may seem like a fun adventure, driving is often more expensive than using a shipping service, considering the costs of gas, hotel stays, meals, wear and tear on your car, and the time spent traveling. Cross-country auto transport is often easier, faster, and an all-around smarter choice. However, there are several key factors to consider when selecting an auto transport company for your cross-country move, including the type of service required, pricing, timing, and reliability.
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With so much to consider, you will want to carefully evaluate your auto transport options to make the right choice for you.
Looking at Your Options
Different seasons. Different terrains. Different cars. Different needs. Over the last two decades, the auto transport industry has undergone significant changes to meet the demands of customers. A growing number of specialized carriers are now transporting thousands of vehicles across the nation every day, like , which has reported shipping over one million cars to all 50 states. These carriers use two primary methods for transportation:
- Open Transport: Â The most common and economical option for those seeking cross-country auto transport services is open transport. This method loads your vehicle onto an open-air carrier that can usually accommodate around seven to 10 cars. Vehicles transported on an open trailer are exposed to outside elements but advanced securing techniques help ensure that most cars arrive in the same condition as when you left them.
- Enclosed Transport: For those drivers who own luxury, classic, or more valuable vehicles, enclosed transport is a great solution, as it offers additional protection inside a fully covered trailer. While the price tag for this method is significantly higher than that of open transport, this premium service offers enhanced care during transportation, along with increased security against theft and tampering.
What You Need to Know
Planning a cross-country auto move requires research into several factors that are often overlooked during the moving process. One of the first factors to consider is the time of year and the weather when your car is being transported, as seasonal fluctuations can significantly impact pricing. During the summer months and January, you may encounter higher prices and longer wait times, as demand typically peaks during these periods. If you are more flexible with your dates, you may be able to save yourself some money.
The second factor you will want to consider is where you will pick up and have your car delivered. Rural areas or other locations that are farther away from major highways typically take more time and resources to service. You also run the risk of the carrier struggling to navigate the area due to poor roads or narrow residential streets that they cannot access. Thus, for moves to these locations, it may be a better idea to select an alternative location for pick-up and drop-off that can save you both time and money.
Both the season and pick-up/drop-off areas need to be considered together, as both can impact your pricing. For example, if you plan on shipping in the winter, you may need to consider an alternative collection point and enclosed transport to secure the safety of your car and the timeliness of delivery.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Shipping your vehicle can become a stressful and frustrating experience, but not if you avoid some of these common mistakes.
- Not Doing Enough Research: Taking the time to really dive into different auto transport services can pay off in the long run. Sometimes, the lowest quotes can come with hidden fees or limited service capabilities that don’t really save you much in the end. Make sure to read the fine print of the terms and conditions to better understand exactly what service you can expect before signing anything. Another way to verify the companies you are considering is to check their DOT and MC numbers on the (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and review their Better Business Bureau rating.
- Last-Minute Booking: If your move is on a tight timeline or has a deadline, you need to plan and book your service well in advance rather than at the last minute. This is because drivers are in higher demand during certain months of the year, and you may experience delays due to unexpected weather conditions or traffic. Booking earlier can help you avoid delays and paying more.
- Not Checking Insurance Details: The standard carrier insurance typically covers external damage during transportation but doesn’t always cover personal items left inside the car. More reputable companies often recommend removing all personal items before transporting your vehicle. Additionally, you will want to request a copy of the insurance and read it carefully before signing any documents.
Making the Right Choice
Experts suggest checking for these services before selecting a transport company to use.
- Transparent Pricing: Ensure you are working with a company that provides a detailed quote upfront that clearly outlines all potential fees.
- Door-to-Door Service: This service helps eliminate the need to drop off or pick up your vehicle at distant terminals, saving you precious time and eliminating additional stress.
- Strong Communication: Transport companies should provide regular updates and make sure you can communicate directly with your assigned driver.
- Insurance: Confirm your chosen carrier has cargo insurance with sufficient coverage for your car’s value before you sign.
- Reliable Tracking: A fundamental service that allows you to monitor your car’s journey and provide peace of mind.
There are also transport companies that offer premium options for customers seeking maximum coverage. These features include expedited shipping with guaranteed pick-up within a specific timeframe, making it ideal for those with tight schedules, as well as white-glove service, which includes features such as enclosed transport, specially trained drivers, and regular updates during transit.
What to Expect on Moving Day
You will want to find a company that helps you understand what to expect on moving day, which includes inspection and a Bill of Lading (an essential document that acknowledges the driver collected your car and is a contract for that transport). You may also be given an expected delivery window after pick-up.
Auto transport services offer numerous advantages for individuals relocating across the country. Convenience, vehicle preservation, and even costs can make your moving experience less stressful. Conducting research into specialized companies and the options they offer can help you plan accordingly and ensure your car arrives safely and on time.
