The cost of car shipping depends on some factors that you need to expect if you are planning to move your vehicle. Many companies offer car shipping quotes to their customers before they get going. Usually, the size of your vehicle and distance will make a difference in the shipping costs. For a more accurate estimate of your vehicle’s costs, a company needs to inspect your vehicle to get your vehicle’s information.
How do you calculate the cost to ship a car?
Internationally, the average cost of car shipping is higher than usual. If you are looking for an estimate to ship a car, it is vital to take the distance where your car will travel and multiply it by the approximate cost per mile. The result of your computation will give you an idea on which you might base your budget. To find the average expenses, below are the car shipping rates that include the costs of coast-to-coast car transport.
- For 500 miles, the average cost to ship a car per mile is $1.00; therefore, it will cost $500 for 500 miles of travel.
- For 1,000 miles, the average cost to ship a car per mile is $0.75; therefore, it will cost $750 for 1,000 miles of travel.
- For 2,000 miles, the average cost to ship a car per mile is $0.50; therefore, it will cost $1,000 for 2,000 miles of travel.
- For the cost to ship across the country, the average cost per mile is $0.40; therefore, it will cost $1,300 for 3,250 miles of travel.
Take note that these are just average costs per mile. If you want a rough estimate, it would be best if you will consult a company.
For instance, the rate of $1 per mile up to 500 miles may apply when dealing with a reputable company.
How do you choose a car shipping company?
Driving across the country or even interstate adds miles to your vehicle’s odometer. Because your car’s mileage affects its market value, choosing an auto transport company is a smart idea when you want to transfer the car from one location to another, especially when you’re selling it. But how do you choose a legitimate auto transport company to entrust your vehicle to?
Before you sign anything, it’s important to know if you’re dealing with a trusted auto transport service.
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Check If They’re Registered
You can easily check if an auto transport company is registered or not since the industry is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Department of Transport (DOT).
A legitimate auto transport company has a motor carrier or MC number and DOT number as proof of registration. You can verify the validity of the company’s MC number and other credentials with the FMCSA. Don’t deal with the company that has a ‘Not Authorized’ MC number.
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Check If The Company Is Bonded And Insured
If you want to avoid facing any liability, choose a bonded and insured auto transport service, even when you’re just moving your vehicle interstate. A professional auto transport company may offer you extra coverage at an additional cost for your peace of mind.
What could be the cheapest car shipping?
Unlike enclosed auto transport, open transport with the service of picking it to a terminal will cost you less in shipping your vehicle. In an open transport, transporters can lodge with a maximum of 10 cars saving the oil, fuel, and fees of the operator.
Generally, picking your car to a terminal will cost you less than delivering your car to the doorstep. It reduces the time of the operator but offers you inconvenience. If you are still looking for a way to save money, ship your car during the offseason like late fall to late spring.
Are there any discounts?
Many companies have available discounts. You might want to look if you are eligible for discounts to save even more. Auto car transport discounts may include:
Military discounts: Military members are eligible for this discount in recognition of their service.
Student discounts: This is for the students who are planning to move to college during the fall or summer.
Senior discounts: This discount is for the seniors who live on a strict income or budget.
First-time car shippers: Most companies offer discounts to their first-time shippers.
Return customers: If you are going back to the company’s service the second or third time around, they are generous to give you a reasonable discount.
Multiple car shippers: Shipping two or more of your cars is the key to a discount.
Early bird: After 48 hours of receiving your car shipping quotes, there are companies that will give you a reasonable discount when you avail of their service.
Even if transporting a car needs so much money, there are still ways where you can reduce the cost of the service. With proper research, car shipping that won’t break the bank is possible.