Blog Post

Air transport is widely considered the safest method for shipping vehicles. The professionals responsible for vehicle transport are not only highly trained but also possess extensive experience in handling and transporting high-value vehicles. Unlike road transport carriers and cargo ships, vehicles typically undergo less handling during air transport. Additionally, security measures at airports tend to be far stricter than those on highways or at shipping container ports. The cost of shipping a car by air ranges between $2,000 and $4,000, making it a pricey option. Indeed, flying a car across the country can sometimes exceed the average cost of a new car. Nevertheless, for wealthier clients looking to transport exotic cars, it remains a feasible choice.

Ship a Car by Plane

If you’re exploring options for interstate car transport, consider the various methods available, including the premium choice of shipping by plane. While it stands as the priciest option, air freight offers unparalleled speed and convenience, making it an attractive choice for those prioritizing quick delivery, especially for international auto transport. If time is of the essence and you’re willing to invest in efficiency, air shipping could be the optimal solution for your needs.

Should I Ship My Car by Plane

If you own a car that holds significant financial or sentimental value and seek the utmost care for its transport, opting for air freight via a cargo plane is the superior choice. Compared to the more turbulent nature of road and sea transport, air freight significantly reduces the risk of physical damage to your vehicle. A cargo plane ensures your prized car is transported smoothly, minimizing the chances of it being jostled or shifted excessively. For those aiming for a direct route to their destination, desiring both speed and safety for their valuable vehicle, shipping by plane emerges as the optimal solution.

Why You Should Consider Transporting Your Car by Air

Transporting a car across the country might seem overwhelming, yet several viable options exist for delivering your vehicle to its intended location. Among these, shipping your car by air stands out as both the fastest and safest method. However, like all car shipping alternatives, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Opting for air transport can be considerably more costly than the average price of a new car, making it a premium choice for specific clients. Despite the higher cost, shipping a car by plane offers unparalleled safety, speed, and reliability.

Luxury or High-Value Automobile

Transporting a valuable or cherished car can pose a significant challenge, especially when its safety is paramount. Consequently, opting to transport high-value vehicles by air is a superior choice due to the speed and security it offers. Air transport ensures your prized car is delivered with care, minimizing movement and potential damage.

Prioritizing Rapid Dispatch

Shipping a car by plane stands out as the fastest method available, particularly for international transport. This method significantly outpaces the traditional approach of transporting a vehicle to a shipping port, where it would then embark on a journey of several weeks to reach its final destination. In contrast, air freight can reduce this transit time to merely a few days, offering a swift and efficient alternative.

If you’re in a hurry to transport your car from one place to another, airfreight is undoubtedly your best choice. Typically, shipping a car by air across long distances takes just a day or two, a stark contrast to the lengthy duration required by road or sea transport. Opting for air shipment means your vehicle could even reach your new destination before you do!

Overseas Shipping

Choosing to ship a car by plane, especially for overseas delivery, offers significant advantages. Air transport provides remarkably short transit times and direct routes, leading to more precise shipping schedules. Airlines generally maintain strict adherence to their departure and arrival times, more so than cargo ship operators. However, it’s important to acknowledge potential limitations, such as weather-related delays, discussed in the section “Possible Delays Due to Weather.”

Shipping your car across the ocean? Air transport is undeniably the fastest route. While container shipping on a cargo ship remains the prevalent choice for international transport, air transport offers a quicker and more straightforward alternative.

Exploring alternative options for car shipping? Dive into our article, “Amtrak Car Transport” to discover the advantages of this auto transport solution.

Getting Your Car Ready for Air Transport

1. Clean and Inspect Your Car

• Ensure to meticulously clean both the interior and exterior of your car to eliminate any dirt or debris.
• Examine your vehicle for any pre-existing damage, including scratches or dents. Capture these details in photographs for future reference.

2. Clear Out Personal Items

• Remove all personal items and valuables from your car, ensuring nothing is left behind.
• Eliminate any accessories or modifications at risk of damage during transport.

3. Check for Leaks and Fluid Levels

• Verify that your vehicle is free from any fuel or fluid leaks.
• Ensure you monitor the levels of crucial fluids such as oil, coolant, and brake fluid, and replenish them as needed.

4. Ensure Sufficient Fuel Supply

• Maintain your car’s fuel tank at about a quarter full. This ensures enough fuel for loading and unloading processes, while avoiding the excess weight of a full tank.

5. Secure or Remove Exterior Parts

• Ensure that any detachable or loose exterior car components, such as spoilers and antennas, are securely fastened or removed.

6. Disable Alarm Systems

• Ensure all car alarms or anti-theft devices are turned off to avoid activation during transport.

7. Check Tire Pressure and Condition

• Make sure that all tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure and are in excellent condition.

8. Fold Back Mirrors

• Retract your vehicle’s side mirrors to minimize the risk of damage when maneuvering.

9. Disable Toll Tags and Parking Passes

• To prevent unwarranted fees, it’s advisable to temporarily detach electronic toll tags and parking passes.

10. Provide Necessary Documentation

• Collect all necessary documents for shipping your vehicle, including its registration, insurance documents, and any particular permits required for its transport.

11. Notify the Shipping Company of Specific Requirements

• Should your car possess any distinctive features or specific needs, it’s imperative to notify the shipping company beforehand to ensure suitable arrangements are made.

12. Consider Additional Insurance

• Verify whether your current car insurance includes transportation coverage. If it doesn’t, think about obtaining extra protection for the duration of the shipping.

The Pros and Cons of Shipping a Car by Plane

Let’s explore the drawbacks of air freight, with its most glaring challenge being the exorbitant costs involved. Transporting a vehicle by air is significantly more expensive, often costing over twice the amount of enclosed road transport. Moreover, the price for international shipments via air can be two to three times higher than that of sea freight. Given that the expense of air shipping can often surpass the value of a standard car, this method is typically reserved for transporting rare, highly valuable, or unique vehicles.

Several key factors will impact the overall cost of shipping your vehicle by air, including:

• The size and weight of your vehicle.
• Using regional airports for both departure and arrival may incur higher costs compared to major airline hubs.
• Seasonal variations in cargo demand can affect pricing.
• Any special handling requirements.

Weather conditions play a significant role in affecting shipping schedules, particularly for air freight. Flights are prone to cancellations or delays in the face of severe weather conditions. Ice storms and heavy snowfall, prevalent in certain regions during the winter months, are often the culprits behind these disruptions.

Furthermore, an advantage of air freight is the enhanced safety of your vehicle. If timeliness and quality matter to you, air shipping emerges as the superior choice for transporting your valuable automobiles between locations, offering unparalleled efficiency.

It’s no shock that the expense of transporting a car by airplane equates to the purchase price of a new vehicle. However, this service stands out because it offers the added benefit of transporting your personal belongings along with your car, a feature not available with every auto transporter. This convenience is particularly beneficial if you’re relocating to a new home, potentially saving you a significant amount on logistics.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car by Plane?

Shipping a car by air typically incurs a cost between $2,000 and $4,000. For anything other than an expensive exotic vehicle, this method of transport often costs more than the car’s value. The savings from opting out of air freight could very well afford you a brand-new car, with funds to spare. Naturally, the price varies based on factors such as the vehicle’s weight, model, and the journey’s length. Shipping a car to another state is generally cheaper than international destinations. However, for those considering shipping a car internationally, be prepared to invest up to $100,000.

Tips for Saving Money on Flying Your Car

1. Explore Various Car Shipping Quotes
   Gather and compare quotes from a range of car shipping companies to find the best blend of price and service. Keep an eye out for any discounts or promotions offered by reputable carriers.
2. Schedule Early and Remain Flexible
   Organize your car’s shipment well ahead of time to take advantage of more favorable rates. If you can, be flexible with your shipping dates to navigate around peak season surcharges.
3. Opt for Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
   Choose terminal-to-terminal shipping over the door-to-door option. By dropping off and picking up your car at designated terminals, you can significantly cut costs.
4. Limit Extra Services
   Adhere to the essential car shipping services and avoid adding unnecessary extras. Sidestep optional services like expedited shipping or storage unless they’re indispensable.

Further Considerations for Car Transport via Airplane

Shipping a car requires collaboration between two key players: the shipper, who is the vehicle’s owner, and the shipping company. The process involves, or in some cases prefers, completing certain paperwork to facilitate the vehicle’s move. This paperwork includes:

• Bill of Lading (BOL): This crucial document, signed by both you and the transporter, acknowledges the receipt of your vehicle in its current condition at the time of pickup. It acts as a binding “contract of carriage” throughout the transportation process, assigning legal responsibility for your vehicle to the transporter. Upon delivery, you’ll sign the BOL once more to confirm receipt of your vehicle.
• Insurance Details: Typically, the transporter’s insurance is in effect during the move. However, it’s advisable to have documentation that outlines the terms and conditions of this insurance.
• Proof of Insurance: Although not often required, if your personal insurance covers the vehicle during transit, you will need to provide proof of this coverage to the transporter.
• Title and Registration: These documents are optional but important. The registration connects the vehicle to you legally as its owner, while the title proves your ownership. Although these documents are seldom requested, it’s wise to have copies available if needed.
• Photographic Identification: Some transport companies may request a form of photo ID for their records. A driver’s license or any other official identification can be used for this purpose.

By ensuring these documents are prepared and available, both parties can facilitate a smooth and efficient car shipping process.

Do Research

Do your research! Different companies require specific documents, and while some may charge more, they often offer superior services. The key is to clearly define your objectives. Make it a point to thoroughly review the company’s policies to prevent any misunderstandings. Additionally, conducting thorough research will help you better understand which type of transportation best fits your budget and needs. The deeper your understanding, the more informed your choices will be.

Inquire With Your Shipping Provider

Inquire about your preferred shipping company, examine their history, and familiarize yourself with the services they offer. A shipping company is tasked with the efficient and safe transportation of physical goods. Selecting the right shipping company is akin to choosing the best accountant, vendor, or supplier. Essentially, you are choosing a partner who will help you fulfill your logistics needs, assuming they perform their duties impeccably. 

In the shipping sector, as with any industry, one encounters transient operators. These entities may tempt you with implausibly low prices, only to abscond with your valuables. Yet, amidst these challenges, genuinely exceptional companies exist. Therefore, vigilance is paramount. It’s crucial to scrutinize their history for indicators of punctuality, reliability, and financial prudence.

Let Safe Car Hauling Take Care of Your Auto Transport Needs

Safe Car Hauling is an esteemed auto transport broker that connects you with offers from carriers licensed and insured by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Leveraging our extensive network of car transporters accessible through National Dispatch Boards, we collaborate with you to strategize and secure significantly better rates.

Contact Safe Car Hauling for a personalized quote or to consult with our expert auto transport representatives. Experience seamless and dependable vehicle shipping services with us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping A Car by Plane 

Is it possible for cargo planes to transport automobiles?

Indeed, cargo planes are meticulously engineered to transport large and heavy freight, such as automobiles. They utilize specialized containers and sophisticated securement techniques to ensure the safe aerial transportation of vehicles.

Which month offers the lowest cost for car shipping?

The most cost-effective times to ship a car usually occur during off-peak seasons, particularly in late fall and winter. Prices fluctuate with demand, influenced by the specific route and location.

How frequently do vehicles sustain damage during transport?

Damage to vehicles during transport is uncommon, with industry statistics typically indicating that fewer than 5% of vehicles sustain any damage. Choosing reputable shipping firms and employing correct loading methods can significantly reduce the risk.

Is It Possible to Transport Personal Items Inside My Vehicle During Air Shipping?

Typically, safety and security regulations prohibit the inclusion of personal items inside vehicles during air transport. Consulting with the shipping company for detailed guidelines and restrictions is crucial, as unauthorized items may lead to delays or incur extra fees.

Is It Safe to Transport a Car by Air?

Transporting a car via airplane is recognized as a secure method, with vehicles meticulously fastened inside the aircraft. Nonetheless, it is critical to select a trustworthy shipping firm and secure adequate insurance coverage to safeguard against possible damage or loss.