How To Ship A Vehicle To Another State Without Stress And Worries

Author: Robin Bailey

Choose a Reliable Vehicle Shipping Company

The first and most crucial step in the process to ship vehicle to another state is selecting a reputable vehicle shipping company. Research is key here. Look for companies with positive reviews, proper licensing, and accreditation from organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Check if the company is registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and has a valid Motor Carrier (MC) number.

Start by gathering quotes from multiple companies to get an idea of the average cost. However, be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than others; they might indicate poor service or hidden fees. A reliable company will provide transparent pricing and explain any additional charges upfront.

Know the Shipping Options

There are two primary methods for shipping a vehicle: open transport and enclosed transport.

  • Open Transport: This is the most common and cost-effective method. Your vehicle will be loaded onto an open carrier, which can transport multiple vehicles at once. While this method is cheaper, your car will be exposed to the elements during transit.

  • Enclosed Transport: For higher-end or classic cars, enclosed transport is recommended. This method protects your vehicle from weather and road debris but comes at a higher cost.

Discuss these options with your chosen vehicle shipping company to determine which is best for your needs.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping

Once you’ve selected a shipping company and decided on a transport method, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for the journey. Here’s a checklist to help you get started:

  • Clean Your Vehicle: A clean car makes it easier to conduct a thorough inspection and note any pre-existing damage.

  • Document Existing Damage: Take detailed photos of your vehicle from various angles, and make a note of any scratches, dents, or other damages. Share these with the shipping company as part of your records.

  • Remove Personal Items: Most shipping companies prohibit personal items inside the vehicle during transport for insurance and safety reasons. Clear out all belongings, especially valuables.

  • Check for Leaks and Maintenance Issues: Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check for any fluid leaks, and ensure the tires are properly inflated and the battery is fully charged.

  • Disable Alarms and Toll Tags: Disable any car alarms to prevent them from going off during transit. Remove or deactivate toll tags to avoid unnecessary charges.

  • Leave Some Gas in the Tank: Your vehicle should have about a quarter tank of gas for loading and unloading purposes.

Schedule Pickup and Delivery

Coordinate with the vehicle shipping company to schedule pickup and delivery times. Be flexible with your dates if possible, as this can often lead to cost savings. Make sure to provide detailed information about the pickup and delivery locations, including any specific instructions for accessing these areas.

On the day of pickup, inspect your vehicle with the carrier driver and compare notes to ensure all pre-existing damages are documented. You’ll be required to sign a Bill of Lading, which serves as a receipt and inspection report.

Track Your Vehicle’s Journey

Most reputable vehicle shipping companies have constant communication with you until your vehicle arrives. This allows you to monitor the progress of your vehicle during transit. Stay in contact with the shipping company for updates and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have concerns.

Inspect Your Vehicle Upon Delivery

When your vehicle arrives at its destination, perform a thorough inspection before accepting delivery. Compare the vehicle’s condition to the photos and notes taken before shipping. If you notice any new damage, document it and report it to the shipping company immediately.

You’ll need to sign the Bill of Lading again, confirming that the vehicle has been delivered in satisfactory condition. If there are any issues, make sure they are noted on the document before signing.

Enjoy a Stress-Free Experience

By following these steps and working with a trustworthy vehicle shipping company, you can be sure of a stress-free experience when you ship a vehicle to another state. Proper preparation, clear communication, and careful inspection at both ends of the journey are key to avoiding any unexpected issues.

Shipping a vehicle doesn’t have to be a source of stress and worry. With the right approach, you can have peace of mind knowing your vehicle is in good hands and will arrive safely at its new destination.