Car shipping calculators can be an invaluable asset when planning auto transport shipments, whether that means moving across state lines or simply disposing of an old car. They make planning easier, but you should also consider the following variables lay out in this article.
The Basics
An online calculator can be an efficient and cost-effective way to estimate the costs associated with transporting your vehicle. Most calculators are free, providing you with an idea of what the costs might be like; however, please bear in mind they cannot cater to every scenario; for instance a lifted truck requires special equipment in order to be safely transported, thus increasing its shipping costs significantly more than an unlifted vehicle.
Shipping your car across the country or internationally requires special equipment. Depending on its size and condition, disassembling, crating and inspecting may be required – an increase in overall shipping cost, but often this method offers the safest route to its new home.
When selecting a company to transport your car, don’t focus solely on price. Instead, look at their customer service ratings and whether they have adequate protection insurance to ensure the safe arrival of your vehicle. Car Talk recommends selecting an established transporter with reliable services and extensive coverage such as comprehensive services or comprehensive insurance policies like these; additionally check that they have registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) with USDOT number provided for each carrier.
Before handing your car over for shipping, remove any personal belongings to reduce theft risks and ensure damage-free possessions. Companies’ policies don’t cover anything left inside. Reducing loose items makes it easier for drivers to record its condition during pickup and delivery.
Distance
No matter if you are shipping across the country or to another state, finding a dependable auto transport company is essential. Many companies provide online calculators which allow users to get quotes without providing personal information – however these may be deceiving as they do not cover all factors involved with costs.
These costs depend heavily on distance covered. Longer routes usually lead to higher fuel costs, increasing prices accordingly; however, the rate per mile will drop if your pickup and drop-off locations are closer together.
Your car’s type also influences its transport costs. Some vehicles, particularly lifted trucks and modified vehicles can be more difficult to ship than others – and any good car transport company will take this into account and adjust their rate accordingly.
Although these calculators can be convenient, it’s always wise to shop around and inquire about rates and discounts before selecting a company. Also make sure that the car carriage cost estimator or the company associated is licensed by DOT and insured before selecting one for you. Also take time into consideration when setting a budget – you can’t expect your car to arrive from New York to California within two days!
Vehicle Size
Another key consideration to take when shipping vehicles is vehicle size. Larger cars will cost more to ship due to additional fuel requirements and taking up more space on a transport trailer. Larger cars have more parts that may become damaged during transportation – therefore, it is imperative that accurate measurements be given to your auto shipping provider in order to obtain accurate quotes for their transport services.
Prior to providing information about your vehicle to an online quote tool, it is vital that you prepare it for shipment. This may involve removing personal items, filling up with gas at least a quarter of the way and taking pictures of it – all steps which will save money while guaranteeing its safe delivery.
Vehicle Weight
Weight of your vehicle is one of the primary influences on prices, with heavier cars costing more to transport (https://www.iihs.org/topics/vehicle-size-and-weight). Therefore, prior to shipping it is wise to remove any personal belongings stored inside and keep its gas tank less than 1/4 full so as to minimize your shipping costs as well as ensure its safety delivery.
Your vehicle’s condition and career choice will also have an effect on car transport costs. Be sure to record any existing damage on the car prior to transport; shipping an operable or fully functional vehicle may cost more than shipping an inoperable or wrecked one.
Vehicle Condition
Before shipping your vehicle, be sure to inspect and document any preexisting damage, saving both time and money in the long run. According to this article, a reputable shipping company should take pictures during shipment as well as providing you with a thorough inspection report upon delivery; this will protect both parties involved should any claims for damage be filed later on.
Like I explained above, as part of your preparations, always use an instant online calculator for an accurate estimation. These calculators take into account distance and vehicle condition to provide a realistic quote for state-to-state auto transport services. Utilizing such calculators will save time and effort when researching companies; just remember that quotes may not match up exactly with final prices when dealing with cars with unique characteristics.
