When moving across the country, one of car owners’ most significant concerns is the cost of shipping their vehicles. The cost to ship a car across the country can vary significantly based on several factors or shipping variables involved in the shipping process.
Different states follow unique sets of shipping rules and regulations based on their lifestyle, government policies, and more to maintain peace and harmony across the country. Negligence in following shipping rules and other factors can result in unwanted delays, heavy penalties, and more that can eventually lead to an increase in your overall cost to ship a car across the country.
Hence it is vital to understand the factors involved in the process to determine accurate estimates and ways you can ship your car cost-effectively.
In this article, we will discuss some key factors that can easily affect the shipping cross-country shipping costs in 2023. Here are the top seven imperative factors involved in different car shipping methods across the country.
1. Distance
Distance is perhaps the most significant factor that affects the cost of shipping a car across the country. The farther the distance, the more expensive it will be to ship a car. The reason for this is simple – the longer the distance, the more fuel and labor costs are involved in transporting the car. Additionally, if you are shipping your car to a remote location, the cost will also increase due to the lack of available carriers and the difficulty in accessing those areas to carry heavy vehicles or shipping trailers.
2. Type of Vehicle
The type of vehicle you are shipping can also affect the cost of shipping a car across the country. For instance, larger vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, and vans, will cost more to ship than smaller vehicles, such as sedans and compact cars. This is because larger vehicles take up more space on the carrier and are heavier, which means more fuel is required to transport them and arrange the shipping resources.
3. Time of Year
The time of year when you are shipping your car can also affect the cost. For instance, during winter, many carriers face challenges due to bad weather conditions, which can cause delays and increased costs. Similarly, during the summer, carriers may charge more due to the higher demand for their services. Generally, the best time to ship a car is during the spring or fall when the weather is milder and the demand for carriers is lower. Additionally, you might notice a sudden increase in shipping costs during the on-season due to high-customer demands.
4. Carrier Type
The type of carrier that you choose can also affect the cost of shipping a car across the country. There are two types of carriers: open and enclosed. Open carriers are the most common type of carrier and are typically less expensive than enclosed carriers. Enclosed carriers provide additional protection for your car and are recommended for luxury or classic cars. However, enclosed carriers are more expensive due to the added protection they provide. Opt for open car shipping services if you can’t afford expensive car shipping methods.
5. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
The location where your car is being picked up and dropped off can also affect the shipping cost. If you ship your car to a remote location, such as a rural area, the cost will be higher due to the lack of available carriers and the difficulty in accessing those areas. Similarly, if you are shipping your car to or from a major city, the cost may be higher due to the higher demand for carriers in those areas. Ensure to get multiple shipping estimates using a car shipping calculator on websites of reliable and reputable shipping companies.
6. Method of Payment
The method of payment that you choose can also affect the cost of shipping a car across the country. Most carriers accept cash, credit cards, or checks, but some may offer discounts for certain payment methods. Some carriers may offer a discount for paying with cash, while others may offer a discount for paying with a check. Ensure to check these facts before finalizing your car delivery service.
7. Insurance
Finally, insurance is another factor that can affect the cost of shipping a car across the country. Most carriers provide basic insurance coverage for your car, but consider purchasing additional insurance for added protection. However, additional insurance can increase the cost of shipping your car, so weighing the benefits against the added cost is important. Ensure to read the coverage contract carefully and look for loopholes to avoid paying extra costs during unwanted road incidents.
Read online reviews, conduct background checks, and if needed, visit your service provider in person to learn more about their staff, work culture, and shipping services. Only hire services from companies with at least five years of experience and good market image.
