How To Ship A Car Archives - National Dispatch

Retro car at beach

Are you looking to ship a car, but you do not have the slightest clue where to begin or how the process works? Unless you are in the car industry, you may not be familiar with how auto transport companies operate.

The process is actually very simple, but it is important to do your homework to become educated prior to shipping a vehicle. This ensures that you hire the right company for the job and have the best shipping experience, possible. Do not worry. We have assembled this guide to walk you through the process.

What is Auto Transport?

Auto transport is a service people utilize when they need to ship their cars statewide, nationwide, or worldwide. Whether the company is an auto transporter or an auto transport broker, the company is in charge of getting a reputable carrier to safely ship your vehicle.

The primary difference is whether the company will be doing the moving, themselves. Meaning, does the company own their own trucks? Either way, using auto transport services will spare you the frustration of having to transport a vehicle, yourself.

Why Do People Use Auto Transport Services?

There is a variety of individuals that might be in need of auto transport services. For instance, college students moving to and from school, people moving to a new home, military personnel, car collectors, car buyers, car dealerships, and large corporations are all good examples.

At National Dispatch, we cater our services to meet our customer’s specific needs, keeping in mind that we are shipping more than just cars. Each customer has unique needs, but they all look to the auto transport industry for convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind.

What Are Your Options?

There are thousands of auto transport companies out there to choose from. Not only is it important for you to choose the right one, but it is also necessary to select a company that offers the services you need. Here is an overview of the common auto transport services offered in the industry.

Open Auto Transport

When you think of auto transport carriers, an open carrier is likely what your mind flashes to. These trailers, with one or two levels, are capable of hauling up to nine vehicles. This is the cheapest and most common method for shipping a vehicle. For this reason, these trailers are more readily available. It is important to note that the car will be exposed to potential hazards, such as dirt, dust, rocks, debris, and weather. However, damages due to these elements is uncommon.

Enclosed Auto Transport

An enclosed carrier provides more protection to the vehicles that it carries, shielding them from weather and road elements. Therefore, enclosed auto transport is often recommended for classic, vintage, and luxury vehicles. However, it is more expensive than open auto transport. For this reason, it is important to take into consideration your personal preference and vehicle type, along with the typical storage and driving conditions of the car.

Door-To-Door Auto Shipping

Door to door auto shipping offers the customer the most convenient pickup and delivery option. It is often considered the primary method of shipping in the auto transport industry over terminal to terminal. This service is the quickest and easiest for both you and the driver, because the carrier will drop your vehicle off as close to the delivery location as possible. Some delivery locations are difficult places for drivers to maneuver the large transport trucks, so a nearby meeting place may be necessary.

Guaranteed Shipping

If you need your car shipped fast (really fast), then an expedited service is what you need. This service is best suited for individuals who are in urgent need of a quick delivery. If your schedule is open to other shipping options, guaranteed shipping may not be the best choice for you due to the expense. National Dispatch offers three shipping options ranging in price. We are happy to assist you in choosing an option that best fits your timeline and budget.

Learn more about auto transport services.

Office desk table with laptop and phone

What Do You Have To Do?

Shipping a car across the country is usually the best option when it comes to a job relocation or an out-of-state purchase. Using these auto transport services can save you time, energy, and even money. However, the process can be confusing, especially for first-timers.

The idea of giving your vehicle to a stranger can leave you anxious and a bit overwhelmed. Maybe, if you learned more about what goes into the process and what steps need to be taken, you will feel more at ease.

1. Research The Company.

We understand that over time you have likely developed a personal relationship with your car. Therefore, it is easy to see why you do not want to hand it over to just anyone for fear that the company will not treat your car as they should.

Do your research to dig deeper into the company that you might potentially be doing business with. Ensure that they have the proper licenses to operate. In addition, research their insurance record and complaints, if any. As you are going through this process, it might be helpful to read online reviews from past customers. This will allow you the opportunity to see what it will be like to work with this transporter. Overall, go with your gut, and use your best judgement.

“What a relief. I was sure I would be stranded in the PNW without my car for weeks or be ripped off but this was a fantastic experience from start to finish.”
– Jennifer (National Dispatch Customer)

2. Get A Price Quote.

Best Price Concept

After you have sorted and selected the top companies, it is time to ask for car transport rates. Ultimately, you want to find a company that is competitively priced. You do not want to overpay, but paying a low cost can be risky, as well. What kind of service can you expect from a company that offers cheap pricing?

Most companies have a quote form set up on their website. This allows you to enter in some general information and receive a quote quickly. The specifics of the car shipping calculator will vary by company. For instance, National Dispatch offers a quote form that requires no personal information. Simply, enter in the vehicle make, vehicle model, pickup location, and delivery location to receive a quote instantly.

Upon entering in this information, you will be redirected to the pricing page. The format allows the customer to easily see how different options, such as carrier type and vehicle condition, affect the rate. Then, you can book online or by phone.

Understanding The Variables Of A Quote

So, you entered in your vehicle information, along with the locations for pickup and delivery. Now, you are staring at a price on a screen, but how was it calculated? If you are going to pay hundreds of dollars to ship your car, you should understand what goes into the price. Here are some factors that influence the price you pay.

Vehicle type: Since size and weight are important variables, it is easy to see why the type of vehicle would affect the overall price. Large trucks and SUVs will cost more to transport than compact cars because of this.
Distance: Obviously, distance is a major factor that affects car shipping quotes. Not only is it important to keep in mind how far the driver must travel between locations, but consider where the driver is traveling to. Is it a location that is close to major highways or is it out in the middle of nowhere?
Season: The time of year plays a factor in supply and demand. In other words, more people tend to travel and move during the warmer parts of the year. Therefore, you may see less expensive rates during the winter. However, this varies by company.
Type of transport: We have already discussed the types of trailers (open and enclosed). Your rate will vary according to which one you choose, as enclosed auto transport is more expensive.
Condition of car: Does the car run? If not, it can still be transported. However, it will cost more due to the amount of work and equipment that is needed for loading and unloading.
Time frame: Do you need your car as soon as possible? If so, then you will end up paying more for a guaranteed shipping option.

3. Check Insurance Coverage.

It is always good to check with the auto transport company about their liability insurance coverage. How much is covered under their policy? You may also want to check with your own auto insurance company to see what is covered in the event of an accident. Although damage during shipping is unlikely, you want to be prepared.

4. Prepare The Car.

Once you have decided on a reputable and experienced auto transporter, it is time to prepare your car for its journey. Soon, the driver will arrive to load the vehicle onto the transport trailer. However, there are a few things you want to do to ensure shipping goes on without a hitch.

Wash the exterior.

Scrub the outside of your car to remove all built-up dust, dirt, and grime from the surface. This is especially important for the next step in the process. If you have the time and energy, you can clean the interior of the vehicle, as well.

Perform an inspection.

Once your car is all clean and shiny, you can now complete a visual inspection. Walk around the exterior of your vehicle to check for any existing damage, such as paint chips, scratches, and dents. Take photos of any damages that you find. This will be important if something were to happen when your car is the responsibility of the auto shipper.

Check for leaks.

You will want to make sure that your vehicle is up to date on any maintenance. Perform a closer inspection to check for leaks. You would not want your car to leak on any other cars, and vice versa. It is also important to check the tire pressure and battery, as the vehicle will be driven on and off the carrier. In addition, it means less you will have to do when your car arrives at its destination.

Avoid added weight.

Additional weight refers to two main categories: fuel and personal belongings. You will want to ensure that the car is left with about one-quarter tank of gas. There is no need for a lot of fuel, as your car will only be moved on and off the trailer for loading and unloading. Most auto transport companies will not transport your personal effects due to insurance and safety reasons. Therefore, these items will need to be removed prior to auto shipping.

Learn more about How To Prepare A Car For Transport.

5. Celebrate A Safe Delivery.

Your vehicle arrives safely at your home or business location. All the worrying was for nothing, but there are often more tasks to be completed. If you have just moved your car to a new state, you must register your vehicle with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Do not put this off, because states differ in the number of days that they will give you before penalty or fees.

National Dispatch

Whether you need your car shipped statewide or nationwide, National Dispatch has the experience necessary to ship your car in a safe and timely manner. Our expert staff, competitive rates, and company-owned fleet bring to light our goal at providing our customers with a one-of-a-kind experience that will not break the bank.

We understand that consumers, like you, do not want to have to jump through hoops or get bombarded with emails and phone calls when searching for a great company. This is why we offer FREE car transport rates to anyone that visits our website. No personal information is required to receive a car shipping quote in seconds.

If you are still unsure that we are the right company for you, just read some of our customer reviews, take a look around our website, and get a feel of who we are. You can also contact an auto transport agent by calling 800-321-2051.

New To The Car Shipping Experience

Getting belongings, such as clothes and furniture, to a new home is only one challenge associated with moving. Most individuals own at least one vehicle, which will need to get to the new home, as well. There are several options to transporting the car to its new location. You can drive it there, yourself, or have someone else drive it there for you.

However, neither option compares to the auto transport experience. Sometimes it is not possible to drive the car due to distance, scheduling, or other moving arrangements. This is where National Dispatch comes in. We aim to provide an easier, faster, and safer solution while also offering affordable car shipping rates.

If you have never shipped a vehicle before, you probably are unfamiliar with the car shipping process. You have no idea where to even start. All you are sure of is that you need to get your car from Point A to Point B with the help of a reliable auto transport company.

Put Your Trust In National Dispatch

It can often be difficult to trust another individual with your vehicle. This is because many view their cars as if they were their “babies”. It is completely understandable. After all, not only have you invested money into your car, but you rely on your car on a daily basis to get you from place to place.

National Dispatch has years of experience transporting all kinds of automobiles across the United States. We provide licensed, insured, and expedited auto transport services. We make it our top priority to get your car where it needs to go, when it needs to get there without incident. National Dispatch specializes in many different auto transport areas, meaning we can ship your car, truck, SUV, van, or motorcycle. Specialty vehicles, such as classic, exotic, or luxury models, are no problem for our team. We often ship for repeat customers, which speaks to their satisfaction with our level of service. You can rest easy knowing that your car will reach its destination safely and on time.

Now that you are more familiar with who we are, let’s explore everything there is to know about vehicle shipping rates.

Car Shipping Estimate Calculator: What To Expect

When you need to ship your car, you will likely want to spend a little extra time researching to find the right company for you. Throughout the research process, you will want to determine the types of services you need. This will make for a smooth auto transport experience. You will also want to speak with a representative who works with the company to learn more about your options.

One of the most important areas many individuals are concerned with is price. How much will it cost to ship my car? You will most likely want to get several quotes from various auto transport companies. However, price should not be your only concern. You should focus on quality and service, as well.

Why Request A Quote?

Quick and Easy. National Dispatch provides an online car shipping estimate calculator on the homepage. We aim to make the auto transport process as simple as possible for you. Therefore, we have created an easy-to-use system.
Free and Instant. After submitting a form, you will receive a vehicle shipping rate, in a matter of seconds, not hours or days. Other competitors in the industry make you wait for an email response, but we do not.
No Personal Information. Unlike other companies that require you to input personal information, such as your email, phone number, or address, we only require four simple fields. All you must do is put in the make and model of your vehicle, in addition to the pickup and delivery locations.
Hassle-Free. Since we do not ask for any personal information, we will not hassle you with phone calls or emails. You can relax knowing that you are requesting a free vehicle shipping quote with no strings attached.
Provides An Estimated Cost. A car shipping estimate calculator provides a general estimate of the cost to ship your vehicle. However, pricing may change. To lock in your quote, call and book transport services today.
Can Add Extra Services. You can adjust your quote by choosing additional services, such as enclosed auto shipping, inoperable vehicle transport, or guaranteed shipping for an additional fee. This allows you to see how these added services may affect your quote.

A car shipping quote calculator is great when you are first starting the process. The calculator gives you an idea of how much it will cost to transport the vehicle from one state to another. It is important to remember that there are many variables involved in a vehicle shipping rate. For a more personalized quote, call us at 800-321-2051. Our auto transport specialists will provide you with a quote that is perfect for your needs.

How Much Will It Cost To Ship My Car?

As we mentioned before, there are many variables involved in the creation of a car shipping rate. For this reason, it cannot be a fixed cost. You can spend anywhere between a few hundred dollars upwards to one thousand dollars or more. Let’s take a look at the areas that will affect the price of auto shipping.

Vehicle Make, Model, and Condition

Any quote form that you fill out from an auto transport company will ask for information about the vehicle. You will need to know the make and model to receive a free quote from National Dispatch. You must consider the size of the vehicle. This is because truckers must account for weight on their truck. Larger vehicles weigh more and take up more space than compact cars. Additional information, such as the condition (operable versus inoperable) will aid in providing a more personalized quote. Non-operable vehicles are more difficult to load and often require special equipment. Therefore, these cars cost more to transport. The vehicle shipping rate will be different for a car that you can steer, roll, and brake than for one that does not roll at all. When booking auto transport services, you may also need to know the mileage from the odometer. All of this information helps the company know the value of the vehicle, which contributes to the cost to ship.

Location

Some of the most important pieces of information are where the car is being shipped to and from. Distance is an important factor in your vehicle shipping rate. Obviously, a vehicle that has to be shipped nationwide is going to cost more than one that is being transported statewide. However, you must also take into account how close these pickup and delivery locations are to the main highways. Truckers can easily drive their trucks for miles on a stretch of straight highway. When you stray from the main routes, it is a different story. Some neighborhoods can be difficult for drivers to maneuver large trucks, due to narrow streets or low power lines. This may impact your rate, but do not fret. It will not affect your delivery. The drivers at National Dispatch do their very best to provide door-to-door auto transport service. If they cannot meet this demand, then they will meet you in a nearby location that suits both of you.

Open Versus Enclosed

You have two primary options when choosing how to transport your vehicle. You can go with the standard delivery method of open auto transport. With this service, your car will be transported with up to eight other cars on an open-air transport carrier. The other option is enclosed auto transport, in which the vehicle will be shipped in a fully-enclosed trailer with sides and a roof. The car will be protected from all weather and road elements. Owners of high-end classic, exotic, and luxury models tend to use this form of transport. However, it is available for any customer. Enclosed auto transport is the more expensive option of the two, because it provides a higher level of protection for the vehicle. Whichever option you decide to go with, your car will be transported in the safest manner possible.

Additional Factors

There are more variables that affect your quote than just the vehicle type and condition, location, and delivery method. Here are a few smaller areas that might alter the price:

Guaranteed Shipping. At National Dispatch, we offer three shipping options to fit your needs. Guaranteed shipping is for individuals who are booking last minute or who need their car guaranteed by a certain date range. Requesting to have your car picked up and delivered on and by a specific date will increase the rate.
Time Of Year. Summer is the most popular time of year to transport a car for the industry. Not as many people move their vehicles in the winter. Due to this increase in demand, you may see an increase in price.
Top Loading. You may have never heard of the term “top loading”. It refers to when a car is positioned on the top level of a two-level carrier. Some individuals prefer this position, because the car is less likely to gather dirt, dust, and grime from the road. You should consider if you require a special request, such as this one, before booking auto shipping services.

Call Or Click Today

Requesting a free car shipping quote is easy. We have outlined the steps for you below if you intend on using our car shipping estimate calculator. You may also call us at 800-321-2051. We are more than happy to assist you and answer any questions you may have.

Getting a quote:

Go to our website at www.nationaldispatch.com.
You will see GET AN INSTANT QUOTE.
Select Vehicle Make from the drop down menu.
Select Vehicle Model from the drop down menu.
Input the Zipcode or City AND State of the Pickup Location.
Input the Zipcode or City AND State of the Delivery Location.
Click Get A Quote.
You will receive your quote in a matter of seconds.

*You will have the choice to choose between three different shipping options. Priority shipping will automatically be selected. In addition, you will have the option to choose between enclosed and open auto transport, as well as inoperable and operable vehicle shipping.

What Does Car Shipping Involve?

You may be wondering what would happen after you book auto shipping. We will give you a short explanation of how the process would work. You would call to request car shipping with the services that you need. We would notify you before arrival. Before the car is shipped, you would take the necessary preparation steps to ensure a safe and smooth auto transport process. The driver will do his best to come directly to your location with door-to-door auto transport. Upon arrival, you will conduct a vehicle inspection with the driver. This is to complete a condition report of the vehicle before transport, in case any unforeseen circumstances were to occur. The vehicle will be loaded onto the carrier for safe travels to its destination. In transit, you have no need to worry, because we will treat your car as if it were our own. While flying to your new home, your car will be making its journey across the states. We will deliver the vehicle safely to its new home.

National Dispatch offers auto transport services at a rate that you can afford. We focus on your needs, aiming to provide superior customer service. Relocating to a new home can be difficult and stressful. Car shipping is not only an easy, fast, and safe solution, but it provides an individual with peace of mind knowing that their car is being taken care of. The first step in shipping your vehicle is obtaining a quote from a reliable company. The best way to do this is to either use an online quote calculator or call to speak with a representative.

Start by using our online quote calculator. If you would like to book auto transport services, call National Dispatch today at 800-321-2051. We look forward to your call.

Posts Tagged ‘How To Ship A Car’

How Car Shipping Works