How to Easily Ship Your Car Coast-to-Coast: A Step-by-Step Guide
It’s a big decision to move a car across the United States, especially considering the massive distance, costs, and logistics involved. Whether you’re relocating for a job, chasing new opportunities, or temporarily moving your vehicle, careful planning is key. But don’t worry! With this guide, you’ll learn how to make your car shipping experience smoother and less stressful. From selecting a reliable car shipping company to understanding costs, preparing your vehicle, and handling delivery, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Car Shipping Company
The foundation of a smooth car shipping experience is finding a reliable car shipping company. This step can make or break your experience.
What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company:
- Reviews and Ratings Matter: Check platforms like Trustpilot and Google Reviews to see what previous customers have said. A company’s reputation often reflects its reliability. Look for glowing testimonials about on-time delivery, great customer service, and vehicle care.
- Experience Counts: Choose a company with expertise in coast-to-coast shipping. Experienced companies have the right tools and know-how to handle long-distance logistics.
- Compare Services: Decide between door-to-door delivery and terminal-to-terminal shipping. Door-to-door may cost more but saves time, while terminal-to-terminal offers cost savings at the expense of convenience.
- Free Shipping Quotes: Most companies provide free online quotes. Take advantage of this to compare rates. At Rivalane, you can get a free shipping quote quickly!
Personal Tip: “I once chose a company with the cheapest rate and regretted it when my car was delayed by two weeks. Learn from my mistake—go for reliability over the lowest price!”
Step 2: Understand the Car Shipping Process
Familiarizing yourself with the car shipping process helps reduce surprises and keeps you prepared.
Key Points to Know:
- Book Early: Busy seasons, like summer and holidays, often mean higher rates and limited availability. Booking early can save you money and ensure your car is shipped on time.
- Pickup and Delivery Options: Decide early if you prefer the convenience of door-to-door or the cost savings of terminal-to-terminal delivery.
- Choose the Right Transport Type:
- Open Transport: Affordable and suitable for standard vehicles.
- Enclosed Transport: Ideal for luxury or classic cars, offering protection from weather and debris.
- Transit Times: Coast-to-coast shipments generally take 7-10 days, depending on distance, weather, and carrier schedules.
- White Glove Service: If you’re shipping a high-value car, consider a premium service like Rivalane’s White Glove option, which includes customized handling, secure placement, and delivery at your convenience.
Step 3: Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping
Proper preparation ensures your car stays in top condition throughout the shipping process.
How to Prepare:
- Clean Your Car: Washing the car helps you spot existing damage before shipment. Remove all personal belongings, as they’re usually not allowed in transit.
- Inspect for Issues: Check for leaks and mechanical issues. Inform the shipping company about any problems to avoid complications.
- Disable Alarms: This prevents interruptions during transit.
- Reduce Fuel Levels: Leave about a quarter tank of gas—enough for loading and unloading but light enough to minimize weight.
- Document Your Car’s Condition: Take clear photos from multiple angles and focus on any existing dents or scratches. These photos will be your evidence if you need to file an insurance claim.
Step 4: Calculate the Cost of Coast-to-Coast Shipping
Understanding the factors that influence car shipping costs helps you budget effectively.
Key Cost Factors:
- Distance: Naturally, longer distances cost more. Coast-to-coast routes often range from $1,200 to $1,800, depending on specifics.
- Transport Type: Open transport is more economical, while enclosed transport can increase costs by up to 50%.
- Seasonal Demand: Shipping during off-peak times, like winter, can save you money.
- Additional Fees: Costs may increase for non-operational vehicles, expedited shipping, or remote locations.
Pro Tip: Request detailed cost breakdowns from your shipping company to avoid hidden fees.
Step 5: Insurance and Liability
Protecting your car with insurance is non-negotiable.
- Verify whether the car shipping company uses its own carriers or third-party ones. This determines who’s liable for damage.
- Ask for a copy of the carrier’s insurance policy and understand what’s covered.
Personal Insight: “I once worked with a company that didn’t clarify their liability policy, and it caused a lot of back-and-forth after a minor scratch. Be sure to get clarity upfront!”
Step 6: What to Expect Upon Delivery
Your car has arrived—now what? Follow these steps to ensure everything checks out:
- Inspect the Vehicle: Compare the car’s condition to your pre-shipment photos. Look for new scratches, dents, or damages.
- Mileage Check: Ensure the mileage aligns with what you recorded before shipment.
- Complete Paperwork: Sign off only after you’re satisfied with the condition of the car.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Car Shipping Experience
- Stay in Communication: Regularly check in with your shipping company for updates.
- Review Contracts: Read the fine print to ensure there are no hidden fees or surprises.
