800-321-2051

Posts Tagged ‘National Dispatch’

Car Transport Rates: Common Misconceptions

Car on country road

If you have never shipped your car to another part of the country before, it can seem like a demanding process. In reality, shipping a car is quite easy. Those who have used auto transport services before likely enjoy how stress-free, timely, and convenient it truly is.

However, like any industry, there are misconceptions, or myths, floating around out there. This may have made you think differently about car shipping. We are here to set things straight about the car shipping process, specifically car transport rates as pricing is a major concern for many.

Here are 10 common misconceptions about car shipping. Many of these myths involve car transport rates and prices. Those that stray from the subject are meant to advise you how to make the best decision when it comes to selecting a car shipping company.

1. Go for the lowest price.

FALSE. Cheap does not always mean better. Some people may ask, “Why would you pay for a service that you could get at a lower price?”. The problem with this way of thinking is that the experience you have often correlates to the price you pay.

You might end up paying a low rate to get your car shipped to its destination, but you are taking many risks doing so. Transporting your car with a company that offers cheap quotes is a red flag. You can not predict what condition your car might arrive in.

At the same time, you should not overpay for car shipping services. If a company is priced way above industry standards, it will be a waste of your money. There is a happy medium that you must find.

2. Working with a carrier is the only way to go.

FALSE. In the auto transport industry, there are transport carriers, and then there are brokers. There are also companies that handle both areas of business, but we won’t make your head spin.

Many tend to think of brokers as the middleman. This can be one reason why people stray away from brokers. However, each company should be measured by the quality of services that they provide. Finding someone that you can trust with your car can be a difficult task. Therefore, you must ask questions to find out if the company is someone that you want to do business with.

3. A quote is based only on distance.

FALSE. Although distance is a primary factor, it is not the only factor that affects your car shipping quote. Other factors are of equal importance, as well. Some factors that will have an impact on your quote include: size of the car, pick-up/delivery times, carrier option, and season.

  • Vehicle Size: This component will be measured based on your vehicle make and model. A compact car will be less expensive to ship than a larger SUV because of the differences in size and weight.
  • Pick-up/Delivery: The cost of shipping a car from one location to another will rely on which shipping option you choose. If you require a guaranteed delivery date, then your car transport rate will be higher.
  • Carrier Option: The standard method of shipping is via an open auto transport carrier. However, you can upgrade to an enclosed carrier for an added fee.
  • Season: The summer is the busiest season for most auto transport carriers, because it happens to be when many people decide to move. Car shipping rates may fluctuate with the changing of the seasons due to supply and demand.

4. Removing tires and doors means a lower price.

Front wheel, bumper, and light detail of car

FALSE. It may seem strange to even mention, but it is something that we need to address. Some people may have questions. Will you get a lower car shipping quote if you remove extra items, such as hubcaps, spare tires, or doors? The answer is no.

The weight of your car is important when transporting your vehicle, and therefore, when calculating a car transport rate. However, it will do no good to remove these “standard” items, as they are already calculated into your quote.

It is important to remove all personal belongings from your vehicle before transport. This is for safety and insurance purposes. Failing to do so could lead to added fees or unwanted delays.

5. Open carriers are not safe.

FALSE. Although enclosed carriers are recommended for classic and luxury vehicles, open carriers are suited for most all vehicles. It is true that enclosed carriers provide more protection, but this is because of their design. They are built to protect the cars they carry from a wide range of weather and road elements.

Just because enclosed carriers provide a higher level of protection, this does not deem open carriers unsafe. Open carriers are the most popular method of shipping a vehicle from one location to the next. Therefore, safety is of the utmost importance. You can be rest assured, whichever option you choose, your car will be safe.

Learn more by reading Understanding Your Options: Open Vs. Enclosed.

6. You can only ship cars that run.

vintage cars

FALSE. Maybe, you are currently working to fix up a car or need to ship a car to a mechanic you know out of state. If you have an inoperable car, there are options available to you. Some companies may not offer this auto shipping service because of the equipment and manpower that is required.

When it comes to National Dispatch, we ship a wide range of cars. It does not matter if the car is operable or inoperable. You may be wondering how inoperable car shipping compares in pricing. It is slightly more expensive due to the equipment needed for a successful and safe transport.

7. Door-to-door delivery is expensive.

FALSE. When it comes to getting your car delivered, you have two main options. You can choose to go with terminal-to-terminal auto transport service or door-to-door auto transport service. With terminal-to-terminal car transport service, your car will be shipped to a pickup center near your home or business. On the contrary, door-to-door service involves delivery directly, or as close as possible, to your home.

Most people would prefer door-to-door car transport service, because it is more convenient and saves on mileage. However, some think that it is costly. The best way to measure how expensive a quote will be is to get a car shipping quote directly from the auto transport company.

8. It is difficult to get a quote.

Man working on laptop computer

FALSE. When it comes to National Dispatch, this just isn’t true. We make it very easy for potential customers to get a car shipping quote for several reasons. One reason is because consumers are looking for a company to make their life easier, not harder. They do not want to have to jump through hoops to get a car transport rate. Second, we have nothing to hide. We stand behind our high-quality services and affordable prices.

Why shouldn’t it be easy for people, like you, to get a quote in seconds? Unlike many of our competitors, we do not require any personal information, so you do not have to worry about any pesky phone calls or emails. It is a 100% hassle-free car transport rate.

9. A quote is a guarantee.

FALSE. It is important to point out that the rate that you get on the website is not a guarantee of the price you will pay. Why not? Say you got a quote last March, now it is approaching January and you decide to call up the company for auto transport services. It is possible that rates may have not changed between now and then (almost a year). However, it is also possible that rates may vary.

It is best to request a quote. If you are happy with the price, contact the company to find out more and book auto transport services, soon thereafter. Before signing any contracts, make sure you understand your payment obligations. Are there deposits? Are there hidden fees? Make sure there are no surprises for the best experience, possible.

10. All car shipping companies are the same.

National Dispatch Truck

FALSE. Just because all car shipping companies essentially do the same thing (get your car from one part of the country to the other), it does not mean that there is no difference between them. Like in all industries, companies vary. You will find thousands of auto transport companies. However, you are tasked with the job of finding one that will not disappoint.

At National Dispatch, we ensure that your car will reach its destination in a safe manner. We believe in treating your car as if it were own. This means with the utmost care and attention. You never have to worry about anything. This makes car shipping a truly stress-free experience.

How To Get Instant Car Transport Rates

Using An Online Quote Calculator

With today’s technology, it has become even more easier to find what you are looking for online and in just a matter of seconds. Instead of emailing or calling a company, you can get what you need at the click of a button. If you want to know how much it will cost you to fly round-trip from New York to Florida, you can find that information online. This is true of the auto transport industry, as well.

You can find information on the company’s website regarding what services are offered. To stay in tune with today’s technology, most auto transport companies have car shipping calculators. This is a form that requires some information from you in order to receive a car transport rate.

While all car shipping calculators may appear to be the same, like companies, they can be quite different. How is National Dispatch different from other leading providers in the industry? For one, our quotes are completely instant. There is absolutely no waiting around for your results. Second, our car shipping quotes require no personal information. That’s right! No phone number. No email. Don’t worry. It’s hassle-free. When you are ready to book services, we are ready to assist you.

Steps To Requesting A Free, Instant Quote

Let’s walk you through the steps of how you get a quote from our website.

On any page of our website, you will find the ‘Get An Instant Auto Shipping Quote‘ box. You will see that 4 fields of information is required to proceed to the next page.

  1. Vehicle Make
  2. Vehicle Model
  3. Pickup Location (City and State or Zipcode)
  4. Delivery Location (City and State or Zipcode)

Once you have filled out that information and pressed ‘Show Results’, you will be instantly redirected to see your free car shipping quote.

As you can see, some options are preset for you (Running Vehicle, Open Trailer, and Standard Shipping). These can be changed without switching screens.

Contacting An Agent

Another way that you can get an instant car transport rate is to call the number listed on the company’s website. This will connect you with an auto transport representative. This is also a excellent option if you have additional questions about the car shipping process. Call to speak with one of our agents today at 800-321-2051. We also have a chat feature on our website as an alternative form of communication.

Emailing The Company

Most of the time you can find detailed information about auto transport services on the company’s website. If you cannot find what you are looking for, you can send an email. Keep in mind that email is a slower form of communication, especially if you are contacting outside of regular business hours. If you are looking to get a quote immediately, then you will want to use the online quote form.

National Dispatch

At National Dispatch, we are committed to providing our customers with a wide array of auto transport services to choose from, setting affordability and high quality as our standards. We understand that we are shipping more than just cars. We are shipping for YOU! This is why we have designed services that are both convenient and user-friendly. You will select the services that best fit your needs and budget. You can count on us for the best auto shipping experience possible. Simply fill out the quote form at the top of the page for your free, instant quote or call us at 800-321-2051.

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.

The Importance Of A Car Shipping Quote

Road and city

Why Request A Car Shipping Quote?

One of the first things that you think about when shipping a vehicle is how much it will cost you. You want to be sure that you are getting the best deal. This is likely the case with any service that you may purchase, within or outside the auto shipping industry. If you are like many others, you have set aside a particular budget for your auto transport needs. All there is left to do is find the right company who you can trust to take care of your car and whose services fall within your budget. This can be accomplished through research and price comparison.

Before choosing an auto transport company, it is important to gain car shipping quotes from a number of companies. Requesting car shipping quotes can help you determine the reputation of a company. Therefore, quotes are useful in determining which auto shipper to ultimately go with. Before selecting an auto transport company, it is also important to ask yourself the following questions:

Can I Trust This Car Shipping Company To Take Care Of My Car?

You probably consider your home and your car to be two of the most valuable possessions you own. This means that hiring an auto shipper to transport your car to another state requires a lot of trust. You need to know that the car shipping company you chose is reputable and has established policies to keep your car safe during transport. How and where can you check the reputation of a car shipping company?

To check the reputation of a company, you can look at ratings. Read customer ratings on Google. You will want to find out information on how helpful the staff were, the timeliness of delivery, and the overall quality of the services. Did the customer have a positive experience? Would the customer ship their car with the company again? Another good site is the Better Business Bureau. It is a legit source for checking ratings and credentials, because it cannot be manipulated.

Is My Time Important To This Auto Shipper?

When hiring an auto transport company, you will want to find one that will value your time. The auto transport company should deliver when promised. If not, you might be stuck paying taxi fares or rental car fees until your car arrives. You need to ensure that their top priority is on providing excellent customer service. By doing so, you will find an auto shipper that puts their customers first.

Will My Car Remain Safe During Transport?

Not only is it important to find out the reputation of the company, it is also important to know what practices they have in place to keep your car safe during transit. A good auto shipper will have a reputation of safe, on-time deliveries. They make safety their first concern by hiring the best drivers, who are qualified, knowledgeable, and trained to handle a number of situations. In addition, they have top-quality auto transport equipment to keep your car safe. Many auto transport companies even offer services, such as enclosed auto transport, for extra protection.

Blurred cars in traffic

Getting A Car Shipping Quote

After you have completed some initial research on the auto transport company, you will want to gain a few car transport rates for price comparison purposes. However, it is important to keep in mind that not all car shipping quotes are created equal. While most auto shipping companies have a free quote calculator on their website, not all companies make it easy to receive a quote.

When trying to obtain a quote, you should watch out for untrustworthy companies. These would be the companies that make it extremely hard for you to get a quote. Many of these types of companies require that you put in personal information, such as your email, phone number, or address. Why do they make it so difficult to get a quote? All you want to know is their prices.

In reality, no personal information is needed to receive a car transport rate. Therefore, a company that asks for this type of information, may only be trying to do one of two things: sell your information or get you on the phone. After getting your personal information, a company could give your information out to a third party. We hope that this is not the case. What is more likely is that the company wants to get your information, so that they have a more direct way to contact you. After getting your email or phone number, they can more easily sell their services. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, you may not want a bunch of pesky phone calls or emails.

How Is National Dispatch’s Quote Different?

At National Dispatch, we believe that our reputation and quality of customer service speaks for itself. That is exactly how it should be. This is why we make it very easy for potential customers to get a quote that is fast. When you are on our website, you will find our car shipping quote form. Only four fields of information are required. That’s right, just four!

You will need to enter your vehicle make, vehicle model, pickup location, and delivery location. Upon entering in this information, you will be instantly redirected to your car transport rate. On this page, you will find rates for our three different shipping options: economy, priority, and guaranteed. You can also select transport carriers, as well as notify us of the condition of your car (running versus non-running). This can all be completed on the same screen.

Let’s review. National Dispatch offers a quote that:

  • Is Free
  • Only Takes Seconds
  • Is Available 24/7
  • Requires No Personal Information

Calculation

What Is My Car Transport Quote Based On?

After receiving your car transport quote, you may be wondering how the auto shipper came up with those prices. In general, car shipping rates are based on a variety of factors. The following are the main sources for how your car shipping quote was generated.

Distance

Distance is one of the primary factors when calculating a car transport rate. It generally works, the farther you go, the more expensive car shipping will be. This is do to mileage and the amount of gas required to get your car to a particular location. Therefore, coast to coast auto transport is typically more expensive than if you were to ship your car a few states away.

Location

Where exactly do you need your car shipped to and from? Are these locations more rural or urban? This will have an impact on your car shipping quote. Transport carriers frequently travel on major highways, which connect states across the nation. When the driver must stray from these highways, there is a possibility for rates to go up. To determine how much it will be to ship to or from your particular area, use our online quote calculator.

Vehicle Type

All car shipping quote forms will ask for information on the vehicle. The make and model notifies the transporter of the size of the vehicle. From this, they can estimate how much room the car will take up on the carrier. In addition, the weight of the car can be estimated. Therefore, it will cost more to ship a SUV than a sedan, because a SUV takes up more space and weighs more. You may also be asked to supply information on the vehicle’s condition. This would be whether the car is operable or inoperable. Inoperable cars can be transported, but special equipment is needed to do so. It is important to notify your auto shipper of the condition of your car. Failing to do this could lead to delays or added fees.

Transport Type

There are two main types of transport carriers used to ship your vehicle to its intended destination. You can opt to use either an open carrier or an enclosed carrier. Depending on which one you choose, you will see variations in pricing.

  • Open auto transport: This is the standard method of shipping a car. When you are filling out a quote form on National Dispatch’s website, this transport type will already be selected for you. Using open auto transport means that your car will be loaded onto an open-air carrier. Due to the construction of the carrier, your car will be exposed to the weather and road elements, comparable to normal driving.
  • Enclosed auto transport: This method of transport shields the car from all weather and road elements, because the car is placed in an enclosed carrier. It is recommended for individuals intended on shipping their classic, luxury, or exotic car. Due to the additional protection it provides, you can expect to pay more for this service.

Season

Like any industry, the auto shipping industry has its busy times of the year. This typically tends to be in the summer time. People move more often during this time of year, as children are out of school. Why is the season important when creating an auto transport quote? It is important, because of supply and demand. Prices go up when more people are in need of the services. This is why it is recommended to book well in advance, so that you get the scheduled delivery date that you want. Since the season affects pricing rates, most quotes are only good for a certain period of time before booking. Contact the company directly if you have questions about their rates.

Why Shouldn’t I Choose The Cheapest Option?

We have already stressed the importance of getting a quote from an auto transport company. To view all your options, you will likely request a quote from more than one company. When doing so, you will find that car shipping rates differ from company to company. You may see a range of prices, from the low end to the high end. How do you know which one to go with?

You want to go with a company that offers affordable car transport rates that fall within your budget. You do not want to be pushed outside your comfort zone, paying for a service that you do not feel that you can afford. National Dispatch not only offers affordable car shipping prices, but we offer different shipping time frames to help meet your specific budget and schedule. If you are willing to compromise on your shipping window, then you can save money by choosing a less expensive shipping option.

You are putting a lot of trust and responsibility into the hands of your auto shipper. Therefore, you want to be sure that you hire the best company for the job. This means that you should be weary about going with a company that has prices far below what other companies are charging. After all, you get what you pay for.

National Dispatch Truck

Contact Us

National Dispatch is a top provider of auto shipping services. We ship all types of cars, including trucks, SUVs, vans, and motorcycles across the nation. We can even ship your classic, exotic, luxury, or sport car. Do you have a car that does not run? That is no problem for National Dispatch. We have the expertise and equipment needed to ship your car, whether it runs or not.

At National Dispatch, we put our customers first. This is why we often receive repeat business from our customers. Our customer base is extensive, including military personnel, dealerships, business professionals, families looking to relocate, vacationers, construction teams, and more. We can handle all your auto transport needs, not just those needed for a residential move. We ship cars to auto shows, from auctions, and even those purchased out of state.

Our customers rely on us to get their car to the destination in as safe, timely manner. Want to find out how much our auto transport services will cost you? Request a free, instant car shipping quote using our online quote calculator. No personal information is required. If you prefer to speak with an auto transport representative by phone, call us at 800-321-2051. We look forward to hearing from you!

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.

Finding A Car Transport Company You Can Trust

Finding A Car Transport Company You Can Trust: Overview

Are you in need of car transport services but are having a difficult time finding the perfect company? Maybe, you have had a bad experience in the past, making you skeptical of the industry. At National Dispatch, we pride ourselves in providing a wide range of auto transport services to meet your unique needs.

We understand what is important to you, as a consumer. When searching for an auto transport company, the major concerns are over service, timing, and pricing. National Dispatch offers reliable service, fast shipping, and affordable car transport rates. We aim to make the auto shipping process as simple as possible.

Business woman with headset

Reliable Service

Some research is required on your part to find a transport company that you can count on. The first thing to look at in a company is their reputation. Have they established themselves as a reputable brand? This can be accomplished by reading online reviews and talking to people who may have used the company in the past. You can also look at the company’s presence on various social media outlets. It is also recommended that you speak with a representative with the company to get your questions answered and voice any concerns that you may have.

National Dispatch is a top provider of auto transport services for multiple reasons. We often receive business from repeat customers, which speaks to the type and level of service that we provide. How do we provide a five-star level of customer service that you can rely on?

  • Good communication with our customers.

    Our professional, friendly staff is happy to answer any questions that you may have regarding the auto shipping process. Before the shipment of your vehicle, we make it our goal to ensure that you fully understand what is involved. Auto transport can be complex and confusing, especially if you have not shipped your car before. While your car is in transit, we are always available by phone. Our driver will also communicate with you before his arrival for pickup and delivery. If any special circumstances arise, such as a change in delivery time or location, you will be notified immediately. We want you to be well informed every step of the way. This provides you with peace of mind.

  • On-time pickup and delivery.

    At National Dispatch, we provide auto shipping services in a timely manner. We seek to meet our deadlines and stay on schedule. This requires some work on your part. The car should be transport-ready before the arrival of the driver. This means that the following should be completed prior to transport:

    • Remove all personal items from the car’s interior.
    • Drain the tank to ¼ full.
    • Perform any necessary car maintenance tasks.
    • Secure removable parts on the car’s exterior.
    • Conduct a visual inspection.

    Learn more about Preparing A Car For Shipping.

  • Incident-free.

    We are a preferred carrier, because of our experience, dedication, and clean track record. We hire the best drivers suited for the job. These individuals go through extensive training and stay up to date on certification. They also remain updated on all the industry standards. Our drivers are trained to handle a number of situations. National Dispatch is a licensed, bonded, and insured auto shipping carrier. We make it our top priority to transport your car without incident, ensuring that it gets to its destination in the same condition it was given to us. In the unlikely event that something does occur on the road, we will go above and beyond to fix the problem.

Light Trails

Fast Shipping

Timing is crucial when you need your car to arrive within a matter of days. At National Dispatch, we work with you to find a shipping option that suits your busy schedule. We offer three shipping options, including a guaranteed shipping option for those individuals that are pressed for time. To ensure a smooth and fast transport, we have provided a few tips. Check them out, below.

    1. Book In Advance.

      It is nearly impossible to reserve a spot on a transport truck for your vehicle at the very last minute, so give us a heads up. Like any industry, demand fluctuates with the seasons. In general, the busiest time of year tends to be during the summer months. This is when people are moving and going out of town for vacations. However, you must also take into consideration the seasonal travelers, or snowbirds, relocating during the fall and spring seasons. We recommend booking auto transport services a couple weeks out. We will work with you the best we can to get you scheduled, if working on a shorter time schedule. Contact a National Dispatch representative at 800-321-2051 for further questions.

    2. Be Flexible With Dates.

      When considering your shipping options, the more flexible you are with shipping dates, the easier and cheaper scheduling will be. Upon placing your order, you will be given a window of time. This varies depending on which shipping option you choose. It may vary from a couple of days to a week or more. Keep in mind the unpredictable nature of the business. Although we will do everything in our power to ensure your delivery arrives on time, some things are out of our control. Weather and other delays are unpredictable. Overall, your car’s safety, as well as every other vehicle that we may be transporting, comes first. We treat your car as if it were our own. Therefore, we know that you would want nothing the best for your vehicle. Learn more about how the weather impacts auto shipping.

    3. Tell All.

      Provide all pertinent information at the time of booking. Do not leave out any necessary information concerning the vehicle when booking services. When relaying information about your car to the auto transport company, you should give out the vehicle make, vehicle model, and condition. Is the car modified? Does the vehicle run? This information provides us with the needed materials to ensure that transport is successful. For example, a non-running car requires special equipment for loading and unloading purposes. If the auto transport company is not made aware of the car’s condition ahead of time, then this could cost you time and money.

    4. Consider The Location.

      Consider where you are shipping to and from. This will have a great impact on how long it will take to ship your vehicle. Coast-to-coast auto shipping will typically require more time than shipping a few states away. In addition to distance, location is important. Are the pickup and delivery locations in an urban or rural setting? Auto transport companies utilize main highway routes. Therefore, shipping between large cities or locations near cities is easily accessible. However, this does not mean that rural locations are out of the question. Please use our online quote calculator to enter your exact pickup and delivery zipcodes. Learn more about Scheduling Auto Transport Services.

Black and blue cars near bills

Affordable Rates

You are undergoing a job relocation or decided that a move is in your best interest. Maybe, you recently purchased a vehicle out of state. You have several options to get the car to its destination.

In the case of a move, you could drive the car. However, this adds unnecessary wear and tear, decreasing the car’s value and contributing to depreciation, especially with classic cars. After making an out-of-state purchase, you could get a friend to drive the car to you. However, you probably will want to pay them for their time. It can also be hard to trust anyone but a professional with your vehicle. The best option is to hire a professional auto shipping company, one that you can count on to get the job done right.

One main concern people have involves pricing, but as we have already pointed out, car shipping may not be the most expensive option. After taking into consideration the drive, frequent pit stops, and vehicle upkeep, car shipping is the best solution for transporting short and long distances.

What Is The Most Affordable Transport Carrier?

The cheapest method of transport depends on what kind of transport carrier you will need. This will vary depending on your specific vehicle. Are you looking to ship a 2010 Toyota Camry or a 1968 Ford Mustang?

If you are looking to transport your Camry, then open auto transport would be the best way to ship. Open auto transport is typically what people think about when they hear “transport carrier”. You have likely seen these carriers on the road transporting multiple cars, possibly to a dealership. It is utilized by most customers and suited for most vehicles. It is also the cheapest option available.

When you are looking to ship your classic Ford Mustang, enclosed transport is the way to go. Although this may not be the cheapest option, it is the best option for this type of car. Shipping via an enclosed carrier will save you money in the long-run, as it will protect your rare model from elements of the road and weather conditions. Enclosed auto transport is the recommended shipping method for high-value vehicles.

Which Transport Method Should I Use?

There are two primary shipping methods for the transport of your vehicle. The industry standard tends to be door-to-door shipping via an open-air carrier. However, terminal-to-terminal shipping is also utilized in the auto transport industry. Let us explain the difference between these two methods.

Terminal-to-terminal auto transport utilizes a terminal, typically located in a major city. It requires that you pick up your vehicle from this location within a certain number of days after drop-off. It is less convenient than the alternative of door-to-door shipping, as it requires more drive-time on your part.

Door-to-door auto shipping is recommended for those customers looking for a more convenient auto shipping option. The driver will come directly to your home or place of business for pickup and delivery of the car. If you are located in an area that is not easily accessible for the carrier, then a meeting place will be decided. This is usually a large parking lot or other destination, where the transport carrier can get in and out easily.

Georgia Quote Form

Request A Quote

Your clothing, furniture, and appliances are not the only items that must be transported when moving houses. Most people own at least one car, which must also find its way to your new home. This can be accomplished with the help of a reliable auto transport company. If you are unable to drive during your move or prefer not to, use National Dispatch to take care of all your auto transport needs.

It does not matter what shipping option or service you prefer. We offer an extensive list of auto shipping options to meet your specific needs, budget, and timeline. It all starts by filling out our free, instant quote form on our website. It will only take you a matter of seconds to complete the form. The following information is all that is needed:

  • Vehicle Make
  • Vehicle Model
  • Pickup Location (Zipcode or City/State)
  • Delivery Location (Zipcode or City/State)

As you can see, we do not require any personal information for you to receive a free, instant car shipping quote. Upon filling out the required information, you will be instantly redirected to your quote. You will be able to choose from the following:

  • Non-Running Versus Running Vehicle Shipment
  • Open Versus Enclosed Car Transport
  • Economy, Priority, or Guaranteed Shipping

These options are all available without having to change screens. This allows you to see the pricing options of our various services at a click of a button. We aim to make the process fast and simple.

National Dispatch ships all types of vehicles, including your typical cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and motorcycles nationwide. We also transport classic, exotic, sport, and luxury vehicles. Our customer base is extensive, shipping for large corporations, vacationers, dealerships, military personnel, and more. It does not matter who you are or where you need to go in the U.S., we can assist you. You can be rest assured that you car will be taken care of. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us at 800-321-2051.