Posts Tagged ‘Car Transport Services’

Cross-Country Move: What You Need To Know

Boxes in Living Room

Moving is an exciting experience. Not only does it offer you the possibility for better job opportunities, but it provides you with a change of scenery. It offers a fresh start in a new town, one in which you will make new memories with your family. However, moving is also a big undertaking, one which can be rather stressful.

Moving requires a great deal of planning and organization, as well as time and effort. You must pack up all your belongings and move them to a home in a new city. It becomes even more challenging when your new home is across the country.

When moving to a new home that is located hundreds or thousands of miles away, it is important to make the transition go as smoothly as possible. We have 10 tips for helping to make your cross-country move an easy one.

1. Plan Ahead.

One primary difference between a cross-country move and one that is across town is the distance. This means that everything must be transported in one trip. It is not as easy to make multiple trips between homes, if you forget something. Therefore, it is important that you plan ahead to give yourself plenty of time to pack up all your belongings.

How soon should you start preparing for your move? When it comes to moving, the sooner you start on your To-Do list, the better. Prepare now, so that you are not scrambling to get things done at the very last minute. There is so much to do. You must hire a moving company, make travel arrangements, and book auto transport services. Remember that you also must take care of utilities and complete a change of address form.

2. Make A Checklist.

Checklist

Regardless of where you are moving to or how far away it is, there will be a long list of things to do. When moving, the number of tasks that need to be accomplished can be overwhelming. To stay organized and remain on track, make a checklist. This will keep you on schedule and help reduce stress.

Furthermore, separate tasks by deadline, or when they must be completed by. Set up goals for what you would like to accomplish each day and each week leading up to your move-in day.

Decide the best way you stay organized, whether that be using technology or printed material. There are several apps that you can download on your phone to keep you organized in addition to using the calendar on your cell phone. If you prefer tangible material, then make your own printed checklist or use an online template.

3. Set A Budget.

It is important to note that moving across the country is more expensive than a local move. To reduce stress and avoid “sticker shock”, take some time to calculate the exact costs to move to your new home. Set a budget, and establish a plan on how you will stick to that budget.

If you plan on hiring a moving company, request an in-home consultation to estimate moving costs. You can search around and compare pricing by getting several quotes from different companies. Remember that pricing will vary depending on distance and the size of your home (which determines labor needs and truck size).

When it comes to auto transport, most companies offer a free quote form on their website. However, like companies, not all quote forms are created equally. National Dispatch makes it very easy to get a quote in seconds, without putting in any personal information.

If you are moving for a new job, find out if your new company offers a relocation package. They may be willing to cover some or all of the costs associated with your move.

4. Determine How You Are Moving.

Two Workers Adjusting Sofa

There are several options available to you when it comes to moving to a new home. Primarily, you have two main options: the Do-it-yourself option or the professional option. If you choose to Do-it-yourself, then you must pack everything in your car and drive across the country. Alternatively, you could rent a moving truck, but this method also requires an extensive amount of drive time. Car shipping is the perfect option if you choose to rent a moving truck, as you will also need a way for your car to reach its destination.

If you choose to hire a full-service moving company, then everything will be done for you. All your belongings will be loaded and unloaded for you. This is very similar to how auto transport works. By hiring a car shipping company, all the hard work is done for you. This gives you more time for more important matters, instead of being stuck behind the wheel for hours at a time.

5. Get The Right Supplies.

Do not underestimate the cost of packing supplies. To properly protect your household goods on their journey, you must have the appropriate boxes, tape, and packing material (Bubble wrap, packing paper, etc.). All these supplies can add up, especially when you think about how much stuff you have to move.

It is important to pack your belongings in sturdy boxes that will hold the weight of your items and can handle being loaded and unloaded. However, there are some ways that you can save on packing supplies. If you know a family member, friend, or co-worker who recently underwent a move, ask them if they have any supplies to spare. You can also find inexpensive, or even free boxes, at your local liquor stores, banks, offices, schools, and manufacturing plants. Check around. You could end up saving a lot of money.

Instead of investing in packing paper, bubble wrap, and newspaper, use what you have. You can wrap breakables in towels, sheets, or any other cushioned material.

6. Throw Out Unwanted Items.

Garage Storage

When you start to pack your belongings into boxes, you may come across some things that you do not want or need anymore. Pack only the items that you see yourself using in the future. Get rid of the rest by donating the items to charity or by organizing a yard sale. Not only can you make a few bucks off the stuff you sell, but you will have a lot less to carry to your new home.

It is also important to keep in mind that moving companies often base their estimates on weight or the amount of space that your belongings will take up. This is because more items mean more labor and a bigger truck. To save money, sort through your belongings. Make piles for what you are “keeping”, “donating”, “trashing”, and “selling”.

7. Pack With Care.

Due to the distance involved in a cross-country move, your belongings will be on the road for a longer period of time than if you were moving, locally. Therefore, it is even more important to ensure that your belongings are packed safely, so that they arrive damage-free.

Here are a few tips to follow when packing your boxes:

Tape down the bottoms and sides of each box.
Pack fragile items with newspaper, bubble wrap, or packing paper.
Fill in empty spaces, so that the items cannot easily move around.
Label boxes containing fragile items with “FRAGILE”.

In addition to taking these safety measures, create your own labeling system. Write on the outside of the box what it contains. It is also a good idea to label which room it is going to. You can even make your own color code system to make the move easier and faster.

8. Clean Your Home.

Cleaning Products

Cleaning is essential before moving to a new home. If you are like most people, you have probably put off giving your home a deep cleaning for quite some time. Go room-by-room to complete a thorough cleaning before moving out. This is important if you plan on selling your home. It will be ready for future residents. Leave the home in the condition that you would like your new home to be in.

It is also important to clean the home to which you will be moving to. Cleaning will ensure that your family feels at home in the new place. Clean the kitchen, vacuum the floors, clean the bathrooms, and wipe down the cabinets and shelves.

9. Choose The Best Time To Move.

Most industries have a peak and off-season. This is true for moving and auto transport companies, as well. The peak season tends to fall during the summer months, between May and September. This is when children are out of school, and the weather is ideal.

What does this mean for you? This means that there is a higher demand for auto transport and moving companies to move their belongings. These companies will book up faster. The costs may also be higher due to the increased demand and lower availability.

What can you do? If possible, book services during the off-season to save yourself money. However, if you are moving for a job, you may not have a choice of when you move. In these cases, it is important to book auto transport services, as well as any moving company services, well in advance. This will ensure that you get what you are looking for before they all book up.

10. Stay Positive.

Light Bulb - Think Positive

The most important tip is to remain calm and stay positive. A cross-country move has its challenges. With those challenges comes stress. It is important to remember that moving is a process. Instead of focusing on the frustrations of a move, look forward to making memories in your new home.

Keep in mind that shipping your car is one way that you can save yourself a lot of time and stress. Instead of traveling hundreds, if not thousands of miles, to your destination, have your car transported with the help of National Dispatch. With our door-to-door auto transport service, your car will be picked up from and delivered directly to your home.

Hop on a plane. In the meantime, your car will be shipped to your new home, safely and quickly. You can be rest assured that everything is taken care of.

National Dispatch

At National Dispatch, we are dedicated to providing quality auto transport services at an affordable rate. We ship cars anywhere in the United States for more than just residential moves. We also provide car shipping services designed for corporate relocations, vacations, dealership trades, and much more. For more information on our corporate relocation services, read our Corporate Relocation Guide.

Below, you will find a list of some of the car shipping services that we offer.

Open Auto Transport: This is the primary method of transport via an open-air carrier. These carriers can hold up to nine vehicles at one time. You may request top-loading (at an added fee), as an extra safety measure. Top-loading is when the car is positioned on the second level of the carrier, out of contact with road elements and debris. Learn more about Open Auto Transport.
Enclosed Auto Transport: With this method of transport, the car is loaded onto an enclosed carrier. An enclosed carrier shields the vehicle from road elements and weather conditions. This method is recommended for high-value vehicles, such as luxury, exotic, and classic cars. Learn more about Enclosed Auto Transport.
Door-To-Door Shipping: This service provides added convenience. Instead of having to drive to a designate pick-up and drop-off terminal, the car will be delivered directly to your home. Learn more about Door-To-Door Auto Transport.
Guaranteed Shipping: Do you need your car shipped as soon as possible? We offer guaranteed shipping for those on a strict time schedule. Contact us for more information.

National Dispatch has years of experience in the auto shipping industry. Relax, and have peace of mind knowing that your car is in the best hands. Book auto transport services, today.

If you need car transport services, cross-country or otherwise, we encourage you to use our online quote form. No personal information is required. Just four simple fields of information. If you prefer to speak with an auto transport representative, call us at 800-321-2051.

Preparing Your Vehicle For Winter

Preparing for Winter

Winter is on its way. The freezing temperatures, typical of this time of year, lead to heavy snow and icy roads. This leaves many streets impassable. The city does what it can do take preventive measures, such as salting the streets, to ensure that its residents stay safe while driving. What can you do to ensure that your car is cared for this winter season? To make sure that your car lasts you all winter long, we have assembled a list of ten easy tips. Check them out below.

1. Check The Lights.

During the winter, your commute home is likely going to be in the dark due to the time change. For this reason, you need to make sure that your vehicle’s lights are in good working order. Car lights are crucial for visibility purposes. Not only do lights allow you to see the road ahead of you, but lights allow other drivers to see you.

If you have foggy or yellow headlights, buy a restoration kit at your local auto parts store. This kit will allow you to clear the haze and make your lights like new, again, without spending a lot of money. If a light bulb is out on your vehicle, make sure that this gets replaced before winter is in full gear. Read our post, 5 Car Maintenance Jobs You Can Do Yourself, for more information on how to change lights. You want to be sure that your car has a good set of headlights and taillights, so that you can see in front of you and so that other drivers can be aware of where you are at on the road.

2. Refill The Coolant.

Antifreeze

Coolant, or antifreeze, is necessary for your car to perform as it should. This fluid is primarily important during cold weather, because it prevents the engine from freezing. Therefore, coolant must be changed periodically. How often you change the coolant will vary depending on the particular make and model of your vehicle.

For some cars, it is recommended to change the coolant every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Other cars can go as long as 150,000 miles or more. You should consult with your trusted mechanic or car manufacturer for their recommendations. In addition, many cars have dashboard lights that will notify you when it is time to add coolant to your vehicle. Make sure your coolant level is at the appropriate level. If the level is too low, refill and replace the coolant to properly prepare your car for the winter weather.

3. Keep The Tank Full.

Man pumping gas into tank

There are many reasons why you might skip out on filling up your tank when it is low and in need of gas. For one, you might be in a hurry to get somewhere, so you have no time to stop by the gas station. On the other hand, you may not want to pay the price that they are asking, so you tell yourself you are just going to search for a cheaper option elsewhere. In an effort to save yourself a little time and money now, you could be risking a lot.

A major concern is not making it home and getting stranded on the side of the road because of an empty tank. Close to empty gas tanks also present the following problems: condensation, dirt/rust accumulation, and fuel pump failure. Do not take any chances. Fill up your tank before it gets too low. This way you will be worry-free.

4. Check The Tires.

Car tire on road

If you live in an area that is known for its frequent bouts of snow and ice, then you might want to consider investing in a set of winter tires. These tires help improve traction when driving on the snowy roadways, allowing you to brake and handle turns more efficiently. Your car may have all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive capabilities. This may cause you to believe that it is more than capable of handling the snowy pavement. However, according to Consumer Reports, the best assurance and grip, no matter the type of vehicle you drive, is obtained from winter tires.

In addition to installing a new set of tires, you need to check the tire pressure. Tire pressure tends to drop when the air temperature decreases. Driving with low tire pressure can wear down your tread and lead to a potential accident. It also interferes with how well your car handles. The best thing to do is fill the tires to the proper level before heading on the road.

5. Change The Oil.

Engine oil being poured

Regular oil changes are a crucial part of vehicle maintenance. It helps in protecting your engine and ensuring that your car lasts you for years to come. Sadly though, many car owners neglect this service, possibly because they fail to see the importance or just don’t make the time. We cannot stress the importance of oil and filter changes, especially during the winter. During the cold weather, motor oil thickens. This creates more work for your engine.

Many people have different opinions on how often your car needs an oil change. The old standard was every 3,000 miles. However, due to modern engine design, this is no longer the case. Many cars can go for 5,000 to 7,000 miles or more before an oil change is needed. This will vary depending on the type of oil you use, your driving habits, and more. Check your car’s owner’s manual for more information

6. Check The Battery.

Auto mechanic checking car battert voltage

When cold weather hits, it is more difficult for the car battery to function. This means that your car is working extra hard to crank up. Special equipment is required in order to check your battery, so take your car to your local auto parts store to get is volt tested for free. You can also take it to a repair shop or service station. Complete this prior to the winter season, in case there is a problem with your car’s battery. The test can tell you if you have a weak battery or if it simply needs charging.

Other maintenance can be performed on your car’s battery, such as removing any corrosion and checking the fluid level. Use caution when dealing with corrosive elements by wearing the appropriate protective equipment. If your battery is defective, it may need to be replaced. If your car battery is more than 5 years old and is showing its age in its performance, then it is probably time for a new one.

7. Replace Wiper Blades.

Windshield Wipers

Windshield wiper blades need to be replaced every six months to a year. Examine your blades for apparent signs of wear. Look for cracks in the rubber. Also, pay attention to how well of a job they do at clearing off your windshield. If they are leaving streaks behind, then it may be time to retire the blades and trade them in for a new pair. Check out your local auto parts store. Many stores even offer free installation.

While checking your wiper blades, you might as well check the windshield washer fluid. Washer fluid aids in clearing off the windshield of all the nasty debris that snow storms can bring. This is crucial for visibility. Therefore, make sure your washer fluid is filled to the appropriate level. If your windshield wiper jets won’t spray, then you might have a clogged nozzle or might need to repair the washer pump.

8. Check The Defroster And Heat.

Climate Control

What is most important to you during the winter time? For most people, it is staying warm. When it comes to your vehicle, this means that you must ensure that your car’s heating system is working properly. You do not want to be freezing on your daily commute to work. Make sure that your car’s vents are blowing out warm air. To have working heat, there are a few must-haves. Your vehicle must have enough water for the engine, a working thermostat, and a working cooling/heating system. If you have given your car some time to warm up and the heat still is not working as it should, take it to your local auto mechanic for diagnosis.

Another component that you want to check on is the defroster. You want to make sure that you can see clearly out of the front and rear windshields. The defroster is good at clearing up fogging windshields.

9. Protect The Exterior.

Hand wiping car with polish

The harsh mix of dirt and salt from the roads can wreak havoc on a car’s exterior, causing the paint to wear away. During the summer, it is easier to maintain your car’s exterior with periodic washes, as the weather is warm. What can you do during the winter time to protect your car from the harsh road elements?

To help shield your vehicle from dirt, salt, snow, and ice, apply a polymer wax or a sealant. You can even give your car a good pressure wash to remove any debris that may be trapped on the wheels or in the undercarriage. If you own a garage, parking your car in it can be beneficial to protecting your car from the elements. After winter is gone and spring has come again, give your car a full cleaning. This would include washing and waxing to remove all the dirt and grime from the winter season. Learn more by reading our How To Clean Your Car Properly: Inside and Out.

10. Prepare A Survival Kit.

Car Accessories

It is important to be prepared for the unexpected. Assemble a winter survival kit with all the necessary items you will need in case of a roadside emergency. This is especially useful for drivers who frequently travel on country back roads, in which the closest store may be miles away. However, it is a good idea to prepare one of these kits, regardless of where you drive. You never know when you might need these things.

Below, you will find a few of the items we recommend to put in your car survival kit. You may come up with some of your own, as well.

First aid kit
Blankets
Flashlight
Jumper cables
Cellphone charger
Shovel
Ice scraper
Gloves
Tool kit
Spare tire kit

With modern technology and services, such as AAA, you may think that there is no need to know how to change a tire or jump start a car. However, what if you get stuck in an area without cell phone service? What are you to do, then? This knowledge is important to know in case a situation were to come up, in which you needed to use it. Read How To Jump A Start A Car and How To Change A Flat Tire for more information.

National Dispatch

If you live in an area that gets hit hard with snow and ice during the winter, you may want to get away during this time of year. You are not alone. Many people, termed snowbirds, travel from their northern homes, before the winter season, to take up temporary residence in a warmer state. They spend several months, soaking up the sun, before returning to the north in the spring. Doesn’t this sound relaxing?

Many vacationers who adopt this lifestyle choose to ship their car to their destination. It is fast and easy. They do not have to deal with all the stressors that traveling long-distance brings, such as traffic and weather. Plus, their car will be placed on a carrier, so they do not have to worry about it accumulating hundreds or thousands of miles. However, at the same time, they can have their car with them to explore. There is no need for a rental or public transportation.

Who do you call when you need car transport services? Contact National Dispatch at 800-321-2051. With years of experience in the industry and a company-owned fleet, our customers count on us to deliver their vehicles, safely and quickly. We transport cars anywhere in the United States. If you are in need of our services, we encourage you to go to our website to request a free, instant car shipping quote. No personal information is required.

7 Issues You May Encounter After A Collision

Woman stressed about auto accident

You’re driving down the road after a long day of work, listening to your favorite song. Your car’s music player stops working, so you look down to fix the issue and BOOM!!! …you rear-end the car in front of you.

Issues After a Collision

After getting into an accident, vehicles experience several common adverse side effects. As a responsible car owner, it is essential to pay careful attention to these issues after a crash to keep yourself safe and ensure no preventable damage to your vehicle occurs.

1. Your Inertia Switch Trips, Causing Your Car Not to Start

After a car gets into an accident, even a minor one, it is common for the engine not to start. Most car owners think it is the result of damage to the transmission. The most likely reason a car will fail to start after a minor accident is a tripped switch that cuts power to the vehicle’s fuel pump.

Many cars include an inertial switch that will stop feeding electricity to its fuel pump after an accident. The inertial switch protects the vehicle from lighting on fire. This prevents it from pumping gas just in case of damage to the car’s fuel pump.

If your car doesn’t start after a minor accident, check the vehicle owner’s manual. Here, you’ll figure out whether your vehicle has an inertial switch trip that cuts power to its fuel pump after a collision.

If the vehicle does have the inertial switch trip, then you will likely be able to press a button that will allow you to start the car normally and continue driving.

2. Your New Battery May Soon Fail

Accidents can jar a vehicle’s battery causing it to become inoperable prematurely. Keep the potentially reduced life cycle of your car’s battery in mind after a collision.

3. Your Car Has Been Thrown Out of Alignment

If a car gets into a minor collision, misalignment is unlikely. However, if you are in a more serious accident, pay close attention to your car’s drivability and tire wear, as these are telltale signs of a misaligned vehicle.

When a car is out of alignment, it is wise to take it to a repair shop both to improve safety conditions and prevent further frame damage.

4. Your Headlight or Taillight May Need Replacement

A collision often will damage a vehicle headlight or taillight. Damage to lighting primarily comes in three forms:

Broken lights
Disconnected wiring
Lens damage

While a broken light requires replacement, disconnected wiring and lens damage is a quick repair that needs no assistance. If a wire has come loose, you should be able to reattach it to get the lighting system to reactivate. If lens damage occurs, you should be able to use a car light lens repair kit to fix the damage.

5. Your Door May Not Be Able to Open/Close the Car Door

Damage to a vehicle’s door commonly results from car accidents. Make sure each one of the doors to your vehicle is operable after a crash.

6. Your Car Needs Cosmetic Work

Cosmetic damage to your vehicle is an obvious side effect of a crash. The magnitude of cosmetic repairs is determined by the extent of the damage and how much labor the repair requires.

7. Your Car May Not Roll or Steer

After an accident, you may be unable to steer your car or even get it to roll. If you can’t get your vehicle to steer or roll, then you should consider it inoperable.

While some auto accidents leave a vehicle drivable others do not. If the damage to your vehicle is severe, do not feel the need to drive your car away.

In cases of serious damage, call for a tow truck or auto transport service.

This Guest Post was provided by New Look Collision Center, the premier auto body collision repair center, serving both Las Vegas and Henderson since 2004.

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.

Luxury Car Transport Anywhere In The Country

Transporting A Luxury Car

Whether you are undergoing a residential move, corporate relocation, or purchasing a luxury car out of state, we can take care of all your auto transport needs. Shipping a luxury car is not the same as shipping other types of vehicles.

You likely invested a lot of money into purchasing your luxury car, so you want to ensure that it will arrive safely at its destination. Therefore, it is important that you choose a reliable car transport company, such as National Dispatch, to ship your vehicle where it needs to go.

For first-time luxury car buyers and transporters, we have created this post to assist you in the process. You will learn:

Tips and food for thought about buying your first luxury model
How to choose the best auto transport company
Recommended method for shipping a luxury car
Cost to ship a luxury car from one city to another

Things To Consider Before Making A Luxury Car Purchase

Luxury cars come in a wide array of sizes and body styles, as well as makes and models. If you own or seek to own of these vehicles, you will experience the best in safety, technology, comfort, and driving experience. Many brands have sought to make these cars more affordable for the consumers. You can get a luxury car for under $35,000. However, a luxury model can reach $100,000 or more.

There are several factors to consider when purchasing a luxury car. Here are just a few:

Features

Luxury cars are known for being, well, luxurious. This means coming with top-notch safety features and technology. Some of these features include blind-spot monitoring, collision warning, rear-seat entertainment systems, satellite radio, and navigation systems. When looking for a car, it is important to note which features are a must.

Maintenance/Repairs

Maintenance and repairs often cost more at luxury car dealerships. However, some dealerships offer a deal, such as a free maintenance program, when you purchase a new car for incentive purposes. You should be prepared for the upkeep, as well as the expense, that is involved in owning a luxury car.

Type

When it comes to a luxury car, there are a variety of body styles to choose from. You must decide which best fits your needs and lifestyle. There are SUVs, sedans, and sport models. Maybe, a coupe or convertible is your style. On the other hand, if you have a large family, a SUV with third row seating may better suit your needs.

Fuel Economy

You must take into consideration how much gas will cost you. Most luxury cars require premium gasoline, which cost more in comparison to regular fuel. There are hybrid and diesel luxury vehicles, available. Be prepared, and budget effectively.

New Vs. Used

Buying new versus used is a personal choice. There are advantages and disadvantages to buying each. Purchasing a new vehicle will come with all the latest technology on the market. This may not be important to you, so a used car may be the way to go. A used luxury car will give you what you are looking for in a luxury model at a lower cost. However, you must remember to factor in the possibility of added repairs and maintenance. Whether you are buying used or new, do your research to find a reliable dealer.

Budget

One major factor to consider before making a large purchase, such as a car, is your budget. Get all your finances in order, establish a budget, and stick to it. This will make the car buying process go much more smoothly.

Choosing A Company To Ship Your Luxury Car

It is crucial to find a car transport company that you can rely on to ship your luxury vehicle. It can be hard giving the keys over to a stranger, especially since you have invested so much time and money into finding the perfect car. Therefore, you should conduct some research to ensure that you find a company that will put your car’s safety above all else.

Here are some DO’s when it comes to choosing an auto transport provider:

Check Licenses.

A good car transport company will be licensed, insured, and bonded. All auto transport companies in the country are required to be registered through the U.S. Department of Transportation. Check to make sure that the company meets these criteria. It is important to know that your vehicle will be taken care of while in transit.

Read Reviews.

It is recommended that you review the company’s website and social media sites. This will allow you to get an idea of who you will be shipping your car with. It will also allow you to confirm that the company is reputable and trustworthy. Read some of the company’s reviews on Google to see what others have to say about the company.

Ask Questions.

After doing some initial research, contact the car carrier to get all your questions answered. Speak with a representative who is knowledgeable about the process. You can also find answers to some of your questions on the FAQ page.

Here are some DON’T’s when it comes to choosing an auto transport provider:

Don’t Think Cheaper Is Better.

There are some non-reputable companies out there in every industry. These are the companies that will offer a cheap quote to get your business. Cheaper is not always better. In most cases, you get what you pay for. It is better to pay more for a company that offers a higher quality service than for a company that offers a cheap rate, especially when it comes to your car.

Don’t Avoid Research.

When it comes to car transport companies, you have numerous options available to choose from. Therefore, research is a very important step to finding a professional auto transporter. It will help you avoid spending time and money on a company that is not worth it.

The search ends here with National Dispatch. Contact us today for a free, instant car shipping quote on our website. No personal information is required. You can also contact a representative by phone at 800-321-2051.

Luxury Car Transport Services: What’s Recommended?

Safety is of the utmost importance when shipping a luxury car. You must ensure that your car receives the care and attention it needs and deserves during the shipping process. This means, not only choosing the right company, but the proper shipping methods. So, how should you transport your luxury car? There are two primary methods of shipping. This includes the following:

Open Auto Shipping

This method of shipping involves transporting the vehicle on an open-air carrier. A typical open carrier is multi-level and can haul up to nine vehicles at one time. Due to the construction of the carrier, it does not shield the car from elements that one might typically encounter while traveling on the road. This would include dirt, dust, grime, and more. In addition, the car is not protected from a variety of weather conditions. This is the standard method of shipment. Therefore, it is the most economical.

There are some ways to add more protection with an open carrier, such as by requesting top-loading. Top-loading means that your car will be placed on the top level of a multi-level car carrier. This reduces the risk of encountering road debris and other material.

Learn more about open auto transport.

Enclosed Auto Shipping

The alternative method of shipping is via an enclosed carrier. This type of carrier features side walls and a roof. It may even have added features, such as a lift gate or climate control capability. This method is more expensive than open carrier shipping due to the added protection it provides. Your luxury car will be shielded from all elements and weather conditions, including wind, rain, snow, and ice. This is the recommended method of transport for luxury, exotic, sport, and classic vehicles.

Learn more about enclosed auto transport.

Whichever method you choose, open or enclosed auto shipping, you can be rest assured that your car will be delivered in a safe and timely fashion. At National Dispatch, we provide these services, in addition to door-to-door service to make for the best experience, possible. With door-to-door service, our driver will come directly to your location to pick up and deliver the vehicle. No extra driving on your part needed.

Cost To Ship A Luxury Car

When shipping your luxury car, there are many items to consider. An auto transport company factors many components into the price of your car shipping quote, including:

Distance: This is the main factor in calculating a quote. The price will increase if the driver must travel across the country. It is also important to note if you live or are shipping from a major city, as this will play a part in the cost, as well.
Vehicle make and model: This is primarily used for the purposes of size and weight. The cost to ship a large luxury SUV is different than that of a small luxury sedan.
Transport type: When shipping a luxury car, you will likely want to use an enclosed carrier. However, the choice is yours. An enclosed carrier is more expensive than an open carrier.
Shipping time-frame: If you need your car shipped on short notice, we offer an option to suit this need. Our guaranteed shipping option is best for individuals who need their car ASAP. However, the convenience and fast shipping does come at an added expense.

Learn more about car transport rates.

Requesting A Quote

Since there are multiple factors that go into the cost of a car shipping quote, it is best to request a quote directly from the auto transport company. This way it is a quote specifically suited to your needs and situation.

National Dispatch offers a free, instant car shipping quote through our online quote calculator. All you must do is fill out four simple fields of information. No personal information is required of you. This means no email and no phone number.

Select the Vehicle Make.
Select the Vehicle Model.
Type in the Zip code of the Pick-up Location.
Type in the Zip code of the Delivery Location.
Get a quote.

After you have entered in the information, you will get a page, instantly, that looks something like the following:

Prices are subject to change. This quote was formulated using a BMW 3 series sedan traveling from Boston, Massachusetts to New York City, New York. The trailer type used was an enclosed carrier. However, you may select from an open carrier, as well. Priority shipping is pre-selected, but we have other shipping options, depending on your unique needs.

National Dispatch

National Dispatch is a nationwide auto shipping company with a company-owned fleet. We specialize in the shipment of your standard car, truck, SUV, van, and motorcycle. In addition, we transport specialty vehicles, such as classic, luxury, sport, and exotic vehicles, as well.

Whether you are moving or going on vacation, you are sure to find the services you are looking for at National Dispatch. We believe that you deserve nothing but the best when it comes to the shipment of your vehicle. Therefore, we offer enclosed carrier and guaranteed shipping options in addition to our standard shipping methods for added convenience and peace of mind.

Our auto transport services are licensed, insured, and trackable. Therefore, you never have to worry where or when your car will arrive. You also can be rest assured that your vehicle is receiving the best care and service, available. Our services are not just intended for individuals undergoing a residential move. We also cater to large corporations and dealerships.

We encourage you to read more about our services on our website. Remember that we offer a free, instant online auto shipping quote using our online quote calculator. Our quote is different for several reasons. You will receive a quote in a matter of seconds. In addition, you are not required to put in your name, email, or phone number. If you prefer to speak with someone by phone, call us at 800-321-2051.