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20 Auto Shipping Tips For A Positive Experience

Car on asphalt road in summer

How To Have The Best Car Shipping Experience

Whether you are selling your home, purchasing a new car, or relocating for a new job, using a car shipping company is a convenient and reliable method to get your vehicle where it needs to go.  It is crucial that you choose the right company for the job to ensure that your vehicle arrives safely. Having a positive experience is important and can be accomplished through preparation.

We, at National Dispatch, have assembled 20 Auto Shipping Tips to ensure that your auto transport goes as planned. Check them out below:

  1. Research the carrier.

Before booking auto transport services, you want to ensure that the company is professional and reputable. This can be accomplished by reading customer reviews, reviewing social media outlets, and by looking at their website. You should evaluate the car shipper based on their experience, licensure, and insurance. Auto transport companies are required by law to be registered through the Department of Transportation. You can look up this information by conducting a Google Search. It is also a good idea to search the car carrier on the Better Business Bureau website.

  1. Beware of low quotes.

Many auto transport companies offer a quote calculator on their website. This is a free form that requires some information to receive a car shipping quote. Not all car shipping quote calculators are the same. National Dispatch offers a form that requires no personal information. Upon submitting it, you will be instantly redirected to view your car transport rate. Beware of companies that quote prices below the standards for the industry. You may end up sacrificing the level of service and quality to save a few bucks.

  1. Contact a representative.

After requesting a quote, you should contact a representative with the company to get your questions answered. If this is your first time shipping a vehicle, you likely have many questions regarding payment, insurance, and the overall shipping process. An auto transport representative would be happy to assist you. A phone conversation gives you additional insight into the company. It tells you about their customer service, professionalism, and friendliness. Their staff should be courteous and knowledgeable. Contact National Dispatch at 800-321-2051 to find out more our car shipping services.

  1. Book ahead of time.

Car shipping can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more. It all depends on the location, services, and shipping method. Then, there are some things that are outside of our control. No one can predict the weather with 100% accuracy. We work to meet your deadline by offering a pickup and delivery window. This varies depending on which of our three shipping methods you choose. If you need your car by a specific date, be sure to book auto shipping ahead of time. Preparation is key to a smooth auto transport experience.

  1. Consider the location.

When you need vehicle shipping services to or from an area, think about the location. Is the area easily accessible by a main highway? Will there be enough space when the transporter arrives? National Dispatch offers door-to-door auto transport services for added convenience. We are happy to come to your home or place of business for pickup and delivery. Some locations present difficulties for a large transport carrier. If you live in an area where this is the case, discuss with your driver an alternative meeting place, such as a large parking lot, close to your home.

  1. Think about the destination.

Consider where you are moving to. If you are moving coast-to-coast, the climate could be completely different from your current home. Therefore, you should take the appropriate steps to prepare both yourself and your vehicle for the changes. Depending on the situation, you may need to protect your car from damages that could result from sun and heat or install snow tires on your vehicle. You may want to study up on the best times to move to that area. Avoid seasons or times of the year when bad weather, such as hurricanes, snow storms, etc. is likely to occur, if possible. Also, keep in mind moving trends. People move more frequently during the summer months. Thus, auto shipping companies are busier during this time of year.

  1. Check insurance coverage.

Most auto transport companies offer insurance coverage when transporting. Ask the car shipping company what is and is not covered during the transport of the vehicle. How much is covered varies by the company. National Dispatch offers insured auto shipping services. Therefore, no additional insurance is required. However, it is a good idea to check with your own auto insurance provider. Find out what your car insurance provider covers during the transport of your vehicle.

  1. Understand the contract before you sign.

When the driver arrives at your home to pick up the vehicle, you must sign the Bill of Lading. The Bill of Lading is the legal agreement, or contract, between you and the auto transport company outlining the car shipping services that are being provided. You should make it a habit to thoroughly read all documents before signing. If you have any questions or concerns pertaining to the contract, ask your driver for clarification.

  1. Be realistic about a timeline.

We work to accommodate difficult schedules to get your car to you in a safe and timely manner. However, it is important to remain realistic. The shipping process is different than that of an Amazon delivery. The safety of your vehicles, as well as our drivers, are our top priorities. One way to ensure that your car arrives when you need it is to plan. Our auto transport experts are happy to answer any questions regarding the auto shipping process. It is also a good idea to understand how weather affects your shipment.

  1. Ask about GPS tracking.

Check to see if the car moving company offers a trackable service, such as with a GPS system. This tracking system allows you to know where your car is at along its route, giving you more peace of mind. Our drivers stay in touch with our customers every step of the way to keep them informed of their approximate pickup and delivery times. We want the transport of your car to be a positive experience. Therefore, we seek to provide the best customer service. During transport, you can always contact one of our auto transport experts if you have questions or concerns.

  1. Protect the car.

If you own a classic, luxury, exotic, or other high-value vehicle, you may want to request a service that will protect your car from the weather and road elements. It is recommended that these types of vehicles be shipped via an enclosed car carrier for added protection. However, you can also request that your car be “top loaded”. Top loading refers to when a car is positioned on the second level of a two-level transport carrier. A car in this position is less likely to encounter road elements, such as dust, dirt, and other debris. Keep in mind that these services come at an additional expense than the standard method of transport.

  1. Inspect the car before pick-up.

When the driver arrives to pick up the car, a vehicle inspection will be completed. A report will be written up on the findings. This is important for insurance purposes, in case any incident was to occur during transit. Before the arrival of the transporter, designate some time to conduct your own inspection. Note any visible cosmetic damages, including paint chips, scratches, and dents. Take photographs, from all angles, of any cosmetic damages that you find. Keep these photographs for your records. You can also supply a copy to the transporter, as well.

  1. Remove all personal belongings.

It is recommended to remove all personal belongings from the vehicle for safety and insurance purposes. Extra items in the car can cause damage to the car or the objects, themselves. In addition, the auto transport company does not cover damages caused by these items or the loss of these items. Personal belongings also add more weight to the vehicle. Car transport rates are calculated partly based on the weight of the car. Therefore, these additional items could result in added fees.

  1. Remove loose parts.

Just as personal belongings should be removed, any loose parts on the vehicle should be removed or secured, as well. This would include bike and luggage racks. Make sure that all hood ornaments, decals, hubcaps, spoilers, and fog lights are secure and ready for auto shipping. It may be necessary to remove or retract the antennae. In the case of convertibles, ensure that the top is up and secured. If the convertible top is not in good condition, enclosed auto transport may be a better solution to avoid possible damage to the vehicle.

  1. Maintain the vehicle.

It is vital to perform proper maintenance procedures on your car all year long. This ensures that you have a reliable form of transportation when you need it the most. Before transport, ensure that all the car’s fluids are filled to the appropriate levels. Check the tires to make sure that they are in good condition and at the proper pressure. Make sure that your car does not have any leaks. If it does have a mechanical issue, take it to your local auto mechanic for repair. At National Dispatch, we can ship inoperable vehicles, too. If your car does not run, let us know, so that we can make the appropriate preparations prior to transport.

  1. Avoid fueling up.

It is not necessary, nor is it recommended, to fill up your tank prior to transporting your car. Instead, keep your gas tank at approximately ¼ full. This is to reduce the weight of the car. Failure to do so could result in additional fees. Your vehicle will only be driven for loading and unloading purposes, so not a lot of gas is needed. Since your car will and should only be driven for these purposes, we recommend that you write down the mileage from your odometer. This is for your records.

  1. Confirm payment details.

Ask the company what payment methods they accept (credit cards, cashier’s check, etc.) and how much is required before transport. All companies operate differently. Some car moving companies require full payment in advance, while others only require partial funds, or a deposit. Per National Dispatch policy, some payment is required prior to shipment. Upon first receiving your quote, it is important to verify what is covers. Beware of companies that include hidden fees. Therefore, it is important to read the entirety of the contract before signing.

  1. Prepare instructions for the driver.

You likely use your car as a form of transportation to and from work everyday. This means that you spend a lot of quality time with your vehicle. You understand how it operates. To ship your vehicle, an auto transport professional will need to load and unload the vehicle onto a carrier. To make the driver’s life easier, prepare a list of operation instructions. This would include how to start, stop, and drive your car, if there is anything quirky about it. Give these instructions to your driver upon his arrival.

  1. Change the license plate after an out-of-state move.

If you are moving to another state, you will need to change the license plate to reflect your new state of residence. This will require you to change your car’s registration and title information. This can be completed at your local DMV or by going online. States vary in how long they give you to complete this change after moving. It typically varies from 30 to 60 days after moving to your new state.

  1. Enjoy and be stress-free.

Car shipping services are aimed at making your life simpler. National Dispatch provides a variety of services to meet your specific needs, budget, and timeline. Auto transport is easy, safe, and affordable. Leave all the hard work to us. Fly to your destination, and your vehicle will be shipped to its destination. There is no need to travel hundreds, or even thousands, of miles across the country when car shipping is so easy. We give you the peace of mind you need to start enjoying your new home or vacation spot.

National Dispatch is a nationwide car shipping company. Request a free, instant car shipping quote, today. No personal information is required to receive a quote in seconds. If you prefer to speak with an auto transport representative, call us at 800-321-2051.

Checklist For Business Moves: Planning Your Relocation & Auto Transport

Moving Your Business

If you are the owner of a business, it can be a great task to move to another location. It is a time-consuming process that requires research, organization, and planning to find the proper location that has everything your business needs to grow.

It is important to break down the move into smaller more manageable tasks, so that you are not doing everything at once. This will help keep you from becoming overwhelmed by the immensity of the project.

National Dispatch, a nationwide auto transport company, is here to assist you with your corporate relocation. We understand that this is a stressful process. However, it is also exciting. It means that your business is expanding and needs more room to do so.

We have created a checklist to make your life easier and to help you know what needs to be accomplished. This list includes such duties as setting a budget, finding a location, and selecting an automobile moving company. Not all suggestions may be pertinent to your company, as companies vary in size and location.

Outline The Project

Moving a large corporation, or even a small business, to another location, requires a lot of work. Therefore, it is crucial to have a plan of attack. You must do the following:

  • Establish a Timeline. When do you want everything to be completed by? Maybe, you are looking at a timeline of one year. On the other hand, you may want to move in sooner, possibly within six months. A year may seem like a decade away, but there is much to do. Consider what must be completed each month to ensure that things are moving in the right direction.
  • Create a Budget. As you are preparing for your business move, it is important to set aside the appropriate funds. Calculate the costs of deposits or down payments, construction, renovations, and utility fees. You will also want to add in the cost of hiring a professional moving company to assist you with the move.
  • Assign a Project Manager. Choose an individual from your team to be the moving coordinator. This person will be responsible for ensuring that the move is organized and stays on schedule. If your business is large, it may be necessary to hire a person from each department to oversee the various stages involved in a move.

Choose A Space

Choosing a location and space for your business can be a challenge. You must take into consideration many factors, including what your future business needs might be. Before signing a lease or buying a property, consider the following:

  • Growth. Is there adequate room to expand? When searching for a new office space, it is important to think beyond your current situation. A space may meet your current needs, now, but situations change. If it is not in the budget to get a larger space, then consider renting for a short period of time.
  • Your Customers. Who is your target client base? Will this location be the best move for new business opportunities? Consider the advantages and disadvantages to moving to a large city versus a small town.
  • Your Employees. Quality employees are crucial to your business. Are you relocating your business within the same state or across the country? If it is going to be a long-distance relocation, you need to consider your employees. Will these employees be relocating, also?
  • Parking. It is important to consider if there is adequate parking available for both customers and employees. It can be aggravating to go to a place a business, only to have to park a couple blocks down the street.

Select Furniture

If you are a business professional, chances are you spend a lot of time in the office or in a work environment. It is important to design your office for optimal productivity, and select office furniture that will allow you to do your best work. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Outline your Needs. Before going on a shopping spree, make a list of what your office needs. This would include items such as a computer, printer, telephone, and file cabinet. Think about your profession. What do you use most often? In addition, consider what capabilities these items must have. For example, you may need a printer that can copy, scan, and print.
  • Consider your Options. Make sure you choose office furniture that is durable, and fits your needs as well as your style. There are many options to choose from in design, alone. You can purchase a height-adjustable desk. In addition, you will have to choose between multiple finishes. You do not have to buy new furniture, at all. There is always the option to repurpose or reuse existing furniture.

Determine Storage Needs

Upon moving your office, you may need to rent a storage unit if there is not enough space on-site to store all your valuables. Here are a few tips to know before renting a unit at a storage facility:

  • Decide On What You Need. Consider what you plan on keeping in the storage unit. This will help you make a decision on the unit size you require. It is important to remember that you need room to move around. Therefore, it is recommended to get a unit larger than what you need and clear a walkway in the middle. If you have items that are sensitive to temperature changes, then it may be necessary to get a climate-controlled unit.
  • Do Some Research. To find the best storage facility, a little homework is required. Read reviews to get an idea of what others liked and disliked about the facility. In addition, compare gate hours. You want to choose a location that offers access hours that are convenient for you.
  • Make A Visit. Go view a storage unit that you are considering renting. There is nothing like seeing it in person. This will help you make a final decision, and you can ask the management any additional questions or concerns you may have.

Pack Supplies, Equipment, and Furniture

When you are relocating your business, there are many items that must be packed. This would include office supplies, important paperwork, desks, and equipment. It is important to gather the proper packing supplies and start the process early to ensure everything arrives at the new location safely. Here are a few tips for packing:

  • Label Boxes. Marking all boxes helps aid in efficiency. The box should be labeled with the contents it contains, such as “Books”, “Invoices”, and so on. It should contain a marker indicating if it is fragile or confidential. The box should also have written on it the department name to which it is going to.
  • Sort Through Drawers and Cabinets. Your desk drawer likely contains some junk that you do not need and will not use. Toss these items out to free up space in your desk. You will also want to take this time to go through the file cabinet. Organize and pack files using a system that works best for you. Shred or recycle any old paperwork that is no longer needed.
  • Avoid Chaos. When packing cables, use zip ties to avoid tangling. Pack the cables with the equipment it belongs to. If possible, pack computers and printers in their original boxes.

Schedule Utilities and Other Services

You will want to ensure that the transfer of utility services is taken care of well in advance of your business move. Depending on the type and size of your business, what utilities you will need may differ. Typically, you will need water, internet, telephone, and electricity. Here are a few tips for a smooth transition:

  • Determine Dates for Shut-Off and Activation. The scheduling of dates will depend on when you are moving out of your current location and into your new business. You will want to consider what works best for you. However, it is recommended to activate utilities prior to moving in, so everything is up and running beforehand.
  • Contact the Company Early. When you call to make the switch, you will need your account numbers. Call a few weeks out to ensure that you get the date you want and that a technician is available at that time.
  • Pay All Balances. Pay any balances that remain on your account, so nothing remains after the shut-off dates. You do not want to move to a new location without paying your old bills.
  • Be There for Installation. Someone must be at your business location for installation. If you cannot be present, arrange for another person from your team to be at the office.

Contact Moving Company

Moving day is stressful, especially if you have to do everything on your own. Consider hiring a professional moving company to assist you with your move, including the transport of your vehicle(s). Choosing the right company for the job can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to finding a moving company:

  • Ensure the Company is Licensed and Insured. Whether you are hiring a company to move your office furniture or a company to transport your car to the new location, check to see that the company has the appropriate licenses. They should be registered through the Department of Motor Vehicles. In addition, you will want to ask about the insurance coverage on your belongings.
  • Avoid Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers. You want to stay within your budget. However, if a quote seems very low, then you will likely be sacrificing quality. Go for value over price.
  • Ask Questions. Do your research on the company to ensure that they are reputable. Find out how long they have been in business and what kind of track record they have. Contact a representative to get your questions answered.

Update Important Information

When moving to a new business location, especially out of state, there are multiple areas that need updating. It is important to complete these changes in a timely manner. Here is a list of what may need to be done:

  • Change Address and Phone Number. You can request a change of address through the United States Postal Service, either by visiting the website or going to the closest location. Not only will you want to change this information by contacting the appropriate individuals, but you will want to update this information with Google.
  • Order New Business Cards. Anytime you change your address or phone number, you will want to obtain new business cards. This ensures that your customers know where you can be reached.
  • Update Signage. It may be necessary to get new signage for the building or company vehicles if they contain outdated information.
  • Change Vehicle Registration. When you move to another state, you must update your car registration. This can be completed through the Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • Update Website. New customers may find you via the web. You will want to ensure that the information on your website remains up to date.

Learn more business moving tips by reading our Corporate Relocation Guide.

National Dispatch – Corporate Relocation Services

At National Dispatch, we have many auto transport services that will meet your needs as a business professional and make your transition to a new location much easier. Here are a few of the car shipping services that we provide:

  • Open Auto Transport: This is the standard car shipping method, as well as the most popular. With this method of transport, the vehicle is shipped on an open-air carrier with up to eight other cars. Learn more about open auto shipping.
  • Enclosed Auto Transport: This method of shipping is recommended for owners of luxury, exotic, classic, and sport model vehicles. Enclosed auto transport provides added protection, shielding the car from external elements and weather conditions. Learn more about enclosed auto shipping.
  • Guaranteed Auto Shipping: If you need your car shipped on short notice, then we offer a shipping option to meet your needs. Learn more about our car shipping options.
  • Door-To-Door Car Transport: Our driver will come directly to your location to pick up and deliver the vehicle, as long as conditions permit. This makes the process easy and convenient. Learn more about door-to-door auto transport.

If you are in need of car transport services for your business move, contact us today. We offer a free, instant car shipping quote on our website. Use our online car shipping quote calculator to receive a quote in seconds. No personal information is required. If you prefer to speak with an auto transport expert by phone, call us at 800-321-2051.

Home Improvement Tips: Boost Value, Sell Sooner

 Why Fix Up Your Home?

One of the primary reasons why individuals use our car transport services is in the case of residential moves. What if you cannot sell your house for the price you want? What if your home will not sell at all? The answer is home improvement.

Before selling a home, you, as the owner, will want to spot any problems that would prevent it from selling. Doing repairs will help you get your home back to its former glory, but it is important to be a smart seller. You must budget the cost of fixing everything against the home’s market value.

Here is why you should do home improvements:

  • To get the home of your dreams. It may be time to do home repairs if you cannot afford to sell your current home as is and move to a more expensive home.
  • To make a profit. Home improvement is a great DIY project. Doing a few minor renovations can increase your return investment on your property.

What renovations add the most value? You will get a better return investment out of certain renovations. Therefore, it is important to know which improvements are well worth the money and which ones can wait.

Here are a few renovations that add value to your home:

  • Kitchen Updates – Update the floors, appliances, and countertops in your home.
  • Bathroom Remodels – Remodel your bathroom make it more modern.
  • Landscape and Exterior – When a potential buyer first pulls up to the property, it will leave an impression. How does this first impression impact its selling potential?
  • Maintenance – This would include the roof, windows, and more. Not maintaining these features will greatly decrease the value of your home.

What Needs Fixing?

Your home may need minor or major repairs. Depending on the budget, you may decide to focus on different areas of the property. However, it is important to keep in mind that even partial renovations can increase the value of your home and give it the face-lift it needs.

Here are some general areas to focus on:

  • Walls and Ceilings – Patch up any existing holes and cracks. This will vary in expense depending on severity
  • Entryway – Redecorate the area with a new front door, house number, etc.
  • Improve Landscape – Improving the exterior is for the sake of curb appeal. Plant trees, bushes, and flowers.
  • Clean – You want the space to be clean for potential buyers when they look at the property.
  • Paint – It is amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do. It can make the space look large and newer, but color choice is a big deal. You should stick to neutral colors, such as gray, beige, and cream. It is easy to paint over these colors. If the buyer wants a pop of color, leave that up to them.
  • Appliances – Fix any broken or faulty appliances, including kitchen appliances and HVAC system.
  • Plumbing – Check the plumbing to ensure that there are no water leaks and that all pipes are fully functional. Water pressure should be correct, as well.
  • Flooring – Replace flooring if it is stained, old, or out-of-date.
  • Windows and Doors – Replace any broken windows. Ensure that all doors can lock. External doors should be properly sealed to prevent water from entering the home. It is also important to check that all windows have screens.
  • Roof Repairs – A potential buyer will not care how the rest of the house looks if the roof leaks.
  • Lighting – Ensure that there are no electrical issues. This means checking all light fixtures, ceiling fans, and outlets to see that they are functioning as they should.

What should you do to fix code violations?

Some older homes do not meet standards. Violations can be fixed. You may need to check with your home builder or private inspector. Research the local building codes. These will be specific to your area. Then, have an inspection completed.

Remodeling Kitchens and Bathrooms

Kitchen and bathroom remodel projects add significant value to your home. It is crucial to add these rooms to your home renovation plan to maximize on your return investment. What should you do to add value?

Below, you will find a few considerations to improve upon your existing property:

Kitchen:

  • Cabinets, Racks, Shelves – You can never have enough storage. Consider installing cabinets that reach the ceiling or shelves on an open wall. All this storage means more places to put your dishes, utensils, and more. To spruce up your existing cabinets, brush on a new coat of paint.
  • Commercial Appliances – When choosing appliances, the focus should be on the overall design and functionality. You want to select long-lasting appliances from trusted brands. Do your research by reading reviews.
  • Lighting – Lighting can make a big difference. It has the potential to make a room look larger and brighter. Consider adding dimmer switches to control the amount of light. You can even add under-cabinet lighting.
  • Wood or Stone Floors – Natural wood, as well as stone flooring, is long-lasting. It holds up well against general wear and tear.
  • Stone or Granite Countertops – Granite and stone countertops are a big selling point. It is available in a wide array of colors. Therefore, it can easily match with any kitchen design. Most importantly, granite and stone is long-lasting and does not require much maintenance.
  • Backsplash – Adding a backsplash is not as complicated as you may think. Not only does it add value to the space, but it adds style.

Bathroom:

  • Walk-In Shower – If you do not have room for both a bathtub and a walk-in shower, consider replacing the tub with a walk-in shower.
  • Additional Bathroom – If your home is a one-bath house, consider adding another bathroom. This will significantly increase the value of your home.
  • Vanity – One easy way to improve your home’s bathroom is by transforming the vanity to make it more modern. Update the vanity with new paint, hardware, and light fixtures.

Outdoor Improvements

Updating the exterior of your home does not have to be overly expensive or time-consuming. It is about choosing the most important factors that will add curb appeal and ultimately increase value to interest buyers. Since many buyers view homes online first, curb appeal is a big deal.

Here are a few ways you can add value to your home’s exterior:

  • Landscaping – This means planting flowers, trees, and bushes. In addition, you may want to put mulch around these areas for added visual appeal. Make sure the lawn is cut. Lighting around the walkways leading up to the property is also a selling point.
  • Front Door – Replacing your front door can be beneficial to a sell. Get a door that is secure and energy-efficient.
  • Windows – Much like a door, the same goes for windows. You want to update your windows. Look for energy-efficient windows that will give you the most money back on your investment.
  • Fence – A wooden privacy fence provides a great return on your investment. It will attract buyers with pets and children. In addition, it is a plus for anyone who enjoys their privacy.
  • Paint – A fresh coat of paint can do wonders. Choose a neutral color.

Bonus Improvements

This is for people who want to go the extra mile and who have it in their budget to do so. Like how the newest car on the market has all the latest and greatest features, you may want this for your home. This is to attract more buyers.

Here are a few extra improvements you can make:

  • Smart Home Features – This is added technology that you can add to your house that can be controlled remotely from a phone or computer. It makes your life easier.
    • Doorbell – Speak with people at the door from the comfort of your couch.
    • Alarm system – Keep your home safe.
    • Lighting controls – Control the lighting of a room.
    • Thermostat – Control heating and air conditioning remotely.
    • Keyless entry – Do not worry about carrying keys. You won’t need them.
    • Shade control – Raise and lower window treatments at the push of a button.
    • Irrigation – Water the lawn to keep it looking good.
  • Barn Doors – This rustic decor piece is very popular with buyers. It is easy to make and install one. You can use a barn door for the entry to a home office, closet, and much more.
  • Fireplace – Many home buyers prefer a wood-burning fireplace. If your home already has a fireplace, you can update the look of it. It may just need a deep-cleaning or fresh coat of paint. To add a decorative element, attach a shelf or mantel if your fireplace does not have one.
  • Solar Vents – If your upstairs’ space gets extremely hot in the summer, consider adding solar vents in the attic. These vents help to push the hot air out, so that your HVAC system does not have to work so hard to cool off your home. They can be helpful in lowering the cost of utilities.

More General Home Improvement Tips

When you are thinking about doing a home renovation, there are some things to keep in mind. Before doing improvements, we recommend:

  • Know the Area – How much do homes in your neighborhood typically sell for? Be realistic with your home improvement plan. Do not go over the top. If there is room in the budget to add more space, it makes for a nice return and investment. This includes attics, bedrooms, family rooms, and sunrooms. However, you should not add so much space to price your home outside what the rest of the homes in the area are valued at.
  • Do Maintenance – General maintenance, such as roofing, siding, plumbing, and electrical should come first. After conducting maintenance on your property, then you review the budget and decide what is next.
  • Spend Money Wisely – Where do people spend the most time? When considering where you want to invest your money, think about this. The best returns are on bathrooms, landscaping and exterior, kitchens, bedrooms, deck additions, basement remodels, and family room additions.

Moving Out Of Your Home

Now that you have done renovations on your house, your home will sell much more easily and you will get a better return investment. The next step is moving. When it comes time to move out of your home, consider our auto transport services.

Why use a car shipping company?

  • Easy – Moving can be stressful, but it should not be. With the help of National Dispatch, moving your vehicle to your new home is easy from start to finish. It all starts with a free, instant car shipping quote on our website. Our online quote calculator is easy-to-use and requires no personal information. You will receive a quote in seconds.
  • Convenient – Our door-to-door car shipping service is convenient, because we come directly to your door. Our driver will come pick up the car from your home and deliver it to its destination.
  • Safe – Using a professional auto transport company means that your vehicle will be delivered in a safe and timely manner. We offer both open and enclosed auto transport services to fit your unique needs and budget. You can be rest assured that your car is in the best hands.

National Dispatch is a nationwide car shipping company with a company-owned fleet. We transport vehicles all over the country for individuals undergoing a residential move, corporate relocation, dealer-to-dealer trade, military relocation, snowbird move, and more.

We ship cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and motorcycles. In addition, we transport classic, sports, exotic, and luxury cars. National Dispatch also has the means to transport your non-running vehicle. We understand that you are an individual with unique needs. Therefore, we tailor our car shipping services to meet those specific needs.

Use our online quote calculator to receive a free, instant car shipping quote. Only four simple fields of information are required. No need to input personal information to receive a quote in seconds. If you prefer to speak with a representative by phone, contact us at 800-321-2051.

Learn more about our car shipping services.

Car Transport Rates: Explaining It All

The Basics: Car Transport Rate

You may be moving across the country, spending the winter in a warmer climate, or buying a classic collectible. In situations such as these, sometimes hiring an auto transport company is the best option. Shipping your car can save you time and energy. If you are an individual searching for a car shipping company, you probably have many questions regarding car transport rates.

Since car transport rates are based on many variables, these prices are not fixed expenses. Your car transport price will change depending on a variety of factors. In this post, we will cover what affects the price of an auto transport service and how much it usually costs. Let’s first look at auto transport calculators, by defining what they are and how they can help you.

Auto Shipping Rates Calculator: What Is It?

An auto shipping rates calculator is an online tool used to estimate how much it would cost you to ship your vehicle from one location to another. You will need to fill in information concerning your vehicle, such as make and model. In addition, you must add details about where your car is being shipped to and from. The quote produced by this calculator is non-binding, so by no means are you required to use that company. In addition, the quoted car transport price from the online calculator is subject to change, unless you lock in your quote with a representative.

You will not find the same calculators across the car shipping industry. Many companies’ websites contain rate calculators that have five or more fields that require personal information.  Some even require that you put in an email address to which the company will send your quote.

Using National Dispatch’s Quote Calculator

National Dispatch’s quote calculator is very easy to use. It only requires four simple fields: vehicle make, vehicle model, pickup location, and delivery location (see below). Upon entering in this information, you will receive an instant car transport rate.

Unlike other competitors, no personal information is ever required to receive a free price quote. We are one of the few auto transport companies that offer a truly instant car shipping quote, in seconds rather than minutes. Once you enter in the above information, you will be redirected to the quote page, where you can see multiple shipping options at one time.

You may need to change the delivery method, condition of the vehicle, and shipping method for a more accurate estimate. You can do that on this screen.

Choose from the following options:

  • Delivery Method – Enclosed vs. Open Auto Transport
  • Vehicle Condition – Running vs. Non-Running
  • Shipping Method – Economic vs. Priority vs. Guaranteed

Auto Shipping Rates Calculator: How Can You Use It?

These online car shipping rate calculators provide a general estimate of what it would cost you to ship your vehicle. Due to the number of variables that are involved in the development of the price, you can only rely on this instrument so much. If you intend on shipping your vehicle, use the calculator to get an idea of how much it will cost you. Then, you can contact an auto transport specialist with the company to double-check pricing and lock in a quote.

Check out National Dispatch’s free, instant online car shipping calculator now by going to https://www.nationaldispatch.com/ or call us at 800-321-2051 to speak with an auto transport representative.

Determining the Price of Car Hauling Rates

There are many different variables that factor into a car transport rate. Before we get into pricing to ship your car across the country, it is crucial to look at these factors. It is important to know how a customized quote is developed to fit your unique needs.

Here are the components that affect car transport rates:

  • Size and type of the vehicle. The size of your car is going to play a considerable part into how much it will cost to ship it. The pricing to ship a Toyota Prius will differ in comparison to a GMC Yukon. This is because larger vehicles take up much more space on an auto transport carrier. In addition, larger cars weigh more than smaller cars. Vehicles that fall under this category include full-size SUVs, Trucks, and Vans.
  • Distance. Obviously, a major factor in the transport of your car will be how far the driver must take it. The longer the distance between the pickup location and the drop-off destination, the more mileage on the transport truck. Not only do longer distances mean more resources (i.e. gas), but it also means more time that the truck driver must spend hauling your vehicle to its destination. 
  • Proximity to main route. One important point to consider is “how far off the beaten path” the driver must go. In other words, pickup and drop-off locations directly off the main highways are easily accessible to drivers. Is the location in an urban or rural setting? The driver can typically maneuver the truck more easily in the city, as the countryside tends to be the home to more narrow back streets. What about mountainous settings? If the vehicle needs to be picked up or dropped off at the peak of a mountain, these conditions could be factored into the price. Mountain roads are steep and narrow. Transport trucks move slowly up inclines, and you would want the driver to take extra precautions when navigating these roads.  
  • Delivery method. There are two main transport services that you can choose from, which are open auto transport or enclosed auto transport. Although open auto transport is the most popular form of vehicle transport, it depends upon personal preference, along with vehicle type, on which delivery method you choose. In open auto transport, the car will be shipped in an open-air carrier along with up to eight other vehicles. This is the cheaper option in comparison to enclosed auto transport. In enclosed auto transport, the car will be shipped in a confined trailer, protecting the vehicle from dirt, dust, grime, and elements of the road. This option is popular with those who own classic cars or expensive luxury models.  Individuals also choose enclosed auto transport in the winter months to keep their car out of the harsh weather.
  • Condition of the vehicle. Is the vehicle operable? If not, more time and resources, such as manpower and equipment, are required to get the car on and off the transport carrier. The use of resources is an added expense. Operable vehicles can simply be driven onto the carrier. On the other hand, inoperable vehicles may require the assistance of heavy machinery, such as forklifts. This all depends on the state of the vehicle. Can you roll, brake, and steer the car? These are all crucial functions for loading purposes.  
  • Shipping options. There are several shipping options when it comes to transporting your car. Auto transport rates will vary depending on how soon you need your vehicle. National Dispatch offers three shipping options to meet everyone’s needs. Increasing in price, we offer economic, priority, and guaranteed shipping. Economic shipping is the cheapest of the three options. The car will be picked up within fourteen days, but delivery time will depend upon the route. In priority shipping, one to three days are allotted for pick-up of the vehicle and another one to six days for delivery. The guaranteed shipping option is for individuals who need their car as soon as possible. Therefore, with this option, you are given an exact pick-up date within a few days.
  • Time of year. The time of the year has an impact on vehicle shipping rates. Comparing the car industry to the hotel industry, pricing varies depending upon the season. Car transport prices may be higher in the summer months, because there is a higher demand for auto transport services. On the other hand, the winter months tend to be the slowest season. However, there are the challenges of the holiday seasons and bad winter weather during this part of the year. Learn more information about how the weather affects car shipping.
  • Economy. The condition of the economy slightly influences automobile shipping rates. The auto transport truck that is carrying your car to its destination requires gas. If gas and diesel prices were to skyrocket, this would have an impact on the price you pay to ship your car. If you were to drive the vehicle, yourself, you would be responsible for the fuel expenses. Instead, the auto transport company must pay for the cost of fuel. It is only fair.

Pricing: Popular Transport Routes

Now, you are well-informed about the variables that comprise a car transport rate. As you have read, rates vary depending on many factors. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to up into the thousand dollar range.  Let’s look at the ballpark of pricing you can expect to pay to ship your car from Point A to Point B.

The Pricing Chart below outlines some of the popular transport routes. On this chart, you can find routes moving just one state away (Georgia to Florida), or routes from East coast to West coast (California to Florida). You may not find your exact city and state on this chart, as these are only the most popular. We recommend that you go to the instant quote calculator on our website. Here, you can enter in the zipcodes of your pickup location and delivery location.

Remember, the quoted prices, in this table, are subject to change. We will do our best to keep the prices updated with changes in the industry. However, for the most up-to-date information on rates, go to our website at https://www.nationaldispatch.com/.

National Dispatch Car Transport Rates

The Prices (subject to change) in the Table, above, are based on the following criteria:

  • Regular size car
  • Open Auto Transport
  • Running vehicle
  • Priority shipping option (1-3 days for pick-up, 1-6 days for delivery)

How to Save Money on Car Transport Services:

There are many factors that you have no control over in the transport of your vehicle, such as the size of the car, condition of the vehicle, and locations for pick-up and delivery. If you are moving for a new job, it is not up to you to decide when you move. Therefore, bypassing the busy season of the car shipping industry would be out of the question. However, there are some components that you can control to budget effectively. We are not going to look at the elements of auto shipping that cannot be changed. Instead, let’s focus on what you can do to save an extra buck.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

  • How soon do you really need your car? If you do not need your car to picked up and delivered as soon as possible, do not waste the money on an expedited shipping option. Realistically, consider how soon you need your vehicle. Take into account the estimated pick-up and delivery dates. Research all of the company’s shipping options to find the one that best fits your needs.
  • Does your car need protection from the elements?  Is your car the only one of its kind? A classic? A luxury model with an expensive price tag? You may want to consider shipping your vehicle using enclosed auto transport to protect it from the weather and effects of the road. However, if you believe that you can bypass this method, go for the less expensive option on an open auto carrier.
  • Is it okay to haul your car with other vehicles? Multi-car carriers are less expensive than single-car carriers. Multi-car transport trucks can haul multiple cars at one time across a long distance. On the contrary, single-car transport trucks are only capable of hauling one vehicle per trip.
  • Is top-loading important to you? When shipping their car, some individuals choose a “top load” option. This means that their car is guaranteed to be positioned on the top of a two-level transport carrier. This can be an additional price. Some people choose this option to avoid the chance of leaks from a vehicle on the top row to their vehicle on the bottom row. Others choose this option, because road debris are more likely to occur for a car on the bottom.

Learn more about how to save on moving costs.

Remember This

An auto shipping rates calculator can help you determine a baseline pricing for car transport rates. By filling in just 4 simple fields, you will receive your vehicle shipping quote instantly! This price is determined by a number of factors: size and type of vehicle, distance, proximity to main route, delivery method, condition of vehicle, shipping options, time of year, and economy. Remember that some services can be chosen for a cheaper shipping option.

To receive the most accurate estimate for car shipping, please go to https://www.nationaldispatch.com/ and use our instant car transport rate calculator at the top of the page anytime 24/7 or call us at 800-321-2051 during regular business hours.