For many people going through relocation, moving a car sounds simple: You get in and drive it to your destination. That’s unless you’re moving across the country, of course.
Many people do not get behind the wheel in this situation. Instead, they might tow their car, hitch it behind a trailer or moving van. They may also hire a professional car transporter or even a driver to get it where it needs to go.
Let’s explore how to move your car, particularly in the case of an interstate relocation where using third-party moving services can make the most sense.
Key Takeaways
- Hiring professionals to move or ship your car can make the most sense.
- Finding the right service provider takes time, but moving brokers can help.
- Open transport involves open trailers and typically shares space with other cars.
- Enclosed transport puts your vehicle in an enclosed trailer.
Ways to Ship a Vehicle Between States
There are several ways to ship vehicles between states, and people do it for many reasons. Some do it as part of their move, while others are simply selling the car. They could also be relocating a classic vehicle to warmer weather for the winter. Shipping a vehicle makes sense if you’re using residential moving services to transport everything else and need to fly to your new home.
You have options when it comes to car-shippers including open carrier transport and enclosed transport. Open carrier transport is the most common and affordable choice. Open carrier transport involves loading the cars onto a trailer or car carrier, often loaded with several other vehicles.
Enclosed transport offers added protection for luxury or vintage vehicles. This type of transport uses fully enclosed trailers to offer protection from road debris and weather elements, among other hazards.
When shipping your car, you may opt for door-to-door delivery, where the transporter picks up your vehicle at the old home and delivers it to the new one. You can also choose terminal-to-terminal, which costs less and makes sense for people who can drop off and pick up their car at specific locations.
Ultimately, your choice depends on budget, distance, and necessary protection for the car being shipped.
Why Professionally Transport Your Car Instead of Driving
Moving a car with professional transporters instead of driving it yourself has plenty of benefits. Some benefits include:
- Time savings: Avoid spending hours or days on a long drive, which is particularly important for coast-to-coast, long-distance moves.
- Vehicle protection: Transporting a vehicle minimizes exposure to road hazards, weather, and wear.
- No mileage accumulation: Reduce mechanical wear and preserve your vehicle’s value by keeping your mileage low.
- Safety: Professional transport helps avoid risks from breakdowns or accidents on the road.
- Peace of mind: Professional transport provides a hassle-free, secure shipping process so you can focus on other aspects of your move.
Cost of Car Shipping and Storage
The cost of moving a vehicle with car shipping and storage companies can vary based on several factors. Distance is a main component, as longer moves typically cost more. Per-mile rates may decrease with longer distances.
The type of car you’re moving also impacts the price. Larger or luxury vehicles may require special handling. Transport options, such as open or enclosed carriers, also contribute to the cost. Enclosed transport is more expensive because of added protection.
Finally, don’t forget about timing. Peak seasons, like summer or holidays, often drive prices up. Adding temporary storage while you complete the rest of your move is an additional expense. Storage is usually calculated by the day.
To get the most accurate estimate, it’s best to gather quotes from several carriers at once. A moving broker can help you source this information as part of your overall move.
How to Move a Car in 5 Simple Steps
Moving your card with third-party transport is actually pretty easy. The following steps outline the process.
1. Pick a Transport Date
Before you can start shopping around, you’ll need to pick a shipping date. If you’re not sure what makes sense, figure out which day you absolutely need the car in its final location and work backward.
2. Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Prep your car for transport. Check your tires and battery to make sure they’re in good shape. Don’t neglect the emergency brake, as most transport companies won’t accept the vehicle if it doesn’t work. Check for any leaks or wet spots, such as oil, transmission fluid, or something else. Top off important fluids and fix any mechanical issues that might keep the car from starting during the transport process.
Because your car will be out of your possession, disable the alarm and turn off any EZPasses or toll devices you have. Clean your car inside and out if possible.
3. Document the Car’s Condition
Document your vehicle’s condition in writing and with photos. Note any existing damage carefully. This is important should you need to file a claim with the transport company.
4. Updated Registration and Insurance Information
When shipping your vehicle from state to state, ensure all your paperwork lines up. You’ll need new plates, an updated registration, and new insurance after you arrive. Many states require you to establish these details within a specific period, so having that documentation prepped and ready will reduce the stress of doing so.
5. Coordinate Pickup and Delivery Logistics
With your final drop-off date determined, you can figure out a pick-up time. To nail those details down, call a professional who can determine how long your transport will take. The service provider will dictate the logistics, including the mode of transport.
If you have questions about how to move a car between states and feel overwhelmed, remember that a moving broker who offers long-distance moving services can help facilitate your vehicle’s transportation.
Finding Professional Movers for Auto Transport
Shipping cars from state to state is a process, much like moving the other items in your home. Now that you know the rough costs, how it works, and what kinds of options are available the next question is how to find the people for the job.
You could source quotes from car transport companies on your own, but that could take hours when you need to focus on other aspects of your move (or life in general). Instead, consider partnering with a moving broker like Safe Ship. We have experience facilitating long-distance moves for thousands of customers and partner with trusted providers to ensure everything reaches its destination in one piece — including your vehicle.
Contact us today for a moving quote that includes the cost of transporting your vehicle to your new home.
Our commitment to service helps you find licensed cross-country movers within our carrier network at fair, competitive prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pack my car when shipping it?
Most car transport companies don’t allow personal items inside the vehicle for many reasons. Weight restrictions, insurance limitations, and safety regulations are typical. A few carriers may permit limited items. Check their policy first.
What is the safest way to ship a car?
The safest way to ship a car is via an enclosed transport service. This offers protection from weather, road debris, and other hazards. Enclosed carriers are the perfect fit for luxury, classic, or high-value automobiles that need additional care.
How do you transport a car across states?
You can hire an auto transport company to ship your car, which is often the easiest approach. If you want to spend less money, it’s possible to tow the vehicle behind a moving truck or on your own trailer, but that presents additional risks.
Do moving companies move cars?
Some moving companies offer vehicle transportation services, but it’s better to use a specialized auto transport company with expertise and safer handling practices. Most moving companies or brokers can recommend trusted car shipping partners if they don’t directly offer the service.
How long does moving a vehicle take?
The time required to transport your vehicle really depends on the distance and route. Local moves can take a day or two, while cross-country transport might take up to 10 days. Seasonal demand and route availability also play a role an impact transit time.
