The growing popularity of purchasing cars online or the need to ship cars across long distances, has made the car shipping industry a necessity in today’s world. During these times where everything is available at the click of a button, both dealerships and people are increasingly relying on car shipping services. But how much does a car dealership charge a customer for a shipment, and what determines those prices?
In this article, we will analyze all aspects of car shipping including the shipping factors, ranges of different prices, how to avoid spending too much, and the precautions that need to be taken so that you can have a hassle free shipping process.
Factors That Influence Car Shipping Prices
The cost of transporting a vehicle is dependent on needlessly something factors. Knowing what these factors are will aid you when comparing quotes from service providers.
- Travel Distance
The distance from the shipping destination to the end receiver is one of the most critical cost-shifting factors. In layman’s terms, the longer the travel distance, the more expensive the shipment. To give a rough idea, domestic car shipment can charge around $150-$300, while crossing distances, like state lines, can cost around $900 – 2,000.
For instance
Open Distance: Over 1,000 miles can incur costs up to $0.50 per mile.
Closed Distance: Below 500 miles can cost around $1 to 1.50 per mile.
- Vehicle Category
The particular type of vehicle determines the mode of shipping. There are added costs for vehicles with more space such as trucks, SUVs, and luxury cars. There costs include:
Shipping a sedan type vehicles is much more affordable.
When compared to the aforementioned vehicles using larger vehicles can increase costs up to $200.
- Transport Method Three: Open And Enclosed
Enclosed Transport: This method allows protected and covered trailers for luxury and classic cars further adds to the service cost by 30 – 40%.
Open Transport: This method is the most affordable and efficient shipping option for average cars while protecting them from severe harms and a good choice for basic cars.
- Variation By Season
Car shipping is in high demand with some seasonings experiencing great demand at such times also shipping fees tend to rise, However, shipping cost can be reduced by using the services during the offseason.
- Other Services
These services: faster delivery, insurance refinement, or door to door shipping are all incredibly useful. However, these can significantly raise the amount, so it’s better to check with us before paying for shipment costs.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Vehicle?
Knowing the factors at play is important, however, it is helpful to have some gauge numbers. The following figures should give you a better understanding of the costs involved:
Prices For National Transport
Short Range Travel – Less Than 500miles
This could be from $150 to $500 for the local and regional parts, depending on the mileage and the kind of car being used.
Example: The distance from Miami to Orlando is around 250 miles, and the average payment would be around 300 dollars.
Cross-Country Travel – Over 2000 miles
For long distance travel, the cost falls between $1000 to $2000.
Example: The distance from Los Angeles to New York is approximately 2800 miles, which would mean that the average cost would roughly translate from $1200 to $1800.
International Transport Expenses
There tends to be added expenses in international shipping due to charges of customs, ports and taxes. The rate of shipping from America to Europe or Asia ranges from $1000 to $5000, and with the additional ports charges, it would mean that we have to be in touch with a shipping agency that is familiar with international transit.
Ways To Reduce The Cost Of Car Shipping
Car shipping is costly, but there are so many intelligent ways to bring the cost down.
- Get Various Quotes From Different Owners
The shipping agency should be in partnership with such dealerships. Safe Car Hauling Inc and various others should be on the list of your agencies. That way, they would be able offer competitive prices.
But even while looking for such providers, it is always prudent to compare quotes from different companies and get the best rates possible.
- Use Open Transport
Unless you are transporting a vintage or any high end luxury vehicles, you should always prefer open transport as it is the cheapest.
- Be Flexible with Pickup and Delivery Schedule
Being flexible with timelines may in fact help in getting cheaper discounts, as most shipping companies give discounts when provided a large timeframe in which they can optimize their routes.
- Make Your Booking As Early As Possible
Lowest rates are mostly available for those who book early. Check with any car shipment company, and you will likely find their last minute booking fees considerably higher than normal, which in fact has a hard cap.
- Do Not Ship During The Most Demanding Times
Shipping during non peak times saves a lot of money. Try to always target months with lower demand such as early spring or late winter.
Psychological Barriers
Understand the challenges you face when shipping cars and how to overcome them.
During Transport Damage
Vehicles that are being transported via open transport can easily get damaged due to excessive weather or rough road conditions. It is critical to check that the company you are opting for has sufficient insurance.
Scams Hidden Charges
It’s sad to say but there are some really dishonest companies who lure you in with absurdly low quotes. Most likely, these quotes are accompanied by hidden costs, so always check the fine print.
Delayed Deliveries
It is entirely possible that changes on the road, such as weather or route, can cause deliveries to be delayed.
When evaluating vehicle transport, predicting possible outcomes from the very outset can assist tremendously with gauging expectations.
Be Wise in Selecting the Vehicle Transporter
Moving a motor vehicle is no small endeavor, no matter if it is to a neighbouring city, a new state within the nation, or even an entirely different country. Based on the method of transport and the distance travelled, dealerships may request a shipped price ranging anywhere from $300 to $2000. It is smart to take different problem free quotes, which is why Safe Car Hauling Inc. gives the most reputable services. Remember to prioritize the best rated companies.
Conducting meticulous and thoughtful planning ahead of time with an accurate risk assessment will tend to an efficient shipping plan while keeping expenditures at a minimum. Researching as well as preparation separates auto aficionados, car buyers, and long-distance movers from the rest of the crowd.
Are you finally looking to transport your vehicle in a safe and cheap manner? If that is the case, make sure to reach out to Safe Car Hauling Inc. for an individualized quote.