The first thing you should do when shipping a car across the country is to find a trusted auto transport company. There are many companies out there that offer this service, so it’s good to take some time to read reviews online and compare prices. Make sure the company is licensed and insured so that your car will be protected during the trip. You can even ask the company for their license number and check it with the Department of Transportation. A good company will be happy to share this information and answer any questions you have.
After you choose a company, the next step is to decide which type of transport you want. Most people go with open transport because it is cheaper and very common. This means your car will be on a large open trailer with other vehicles. It is safe and works well for most cars. If you have a luxury, classic, or very expensive car, you might want to choose enclosed transport. This means your car will be inside a covered trailer, protected from weather and dust. It costs more, but it gives extra protection.
Before the transport company picks up your car, you should get your car ready for the trip. Clean your car inside and out. This helps you check for any scratches, dents, or damage that is already there. It’s a good idea to take pictures of the car from different angles. These photos can be useful if you need to file a claim later. Also, remove personal items from the car. Most transport companies do not allow personal belongings inside the car because of safety rules and weight limits.
When your car is picked up, the driver will inspect it with you and write down any damage that is already on the vehicle. This is called the inspection report. You should keep a copy of this report. Then the driver will load the car onto the trailer and begin the journey. The time it takes to ship a car across the country depends on the distance and the route. It usually takes anywhere from a few days to two weeks.
During the trip, some companies offer tracking, so you can see where your car is. If not, you can always call the company and ask for updates. Most companies will give you the phone number of the driver or dispatcher.
When your car arrives at the destination, you or the person receiving the car will meet the driver. The car will be unloaded, and another inspection will be done. Check the car again to make sure there is no new damage. If everything looks good, you sign the final paperwork and receive your car.
ship a car cross country does not have to be hard or stressful. With a little planning, choosing the right company, and taking care of a few simple steps, you can move your car safely and easily from one part of the country to another. It saves time, effort, and wear and tear on your vehicle. Whether it’s for work, family, or a new adventure, shipping a car is a smart and simple solution.