Shipping a vehicle can be confusing, especially when it comes to calculating the cost.
The biggest problem is clarity from brokers who may not know the final price themselves but offer you a quote in hopes that you book with them.
With so many factors in how much it costs to ship a vehicle, how do you do it, exactly?
In this article, we’ll go into what determines the cost of shipping a vehicle, ways to calculate it, and some tips to avoid any hassle when booking with an auto shipping company.
Ready to learn more? Let’s get started!
Cost Factors to Consider When Shipping a Vehicle
Transport Type
The type of transport is going to influence the cost of shipping your vehicle. If you’re shipping a vehicle with an open trailer (the default) it’s going to be more economical than shipping it with an enclosed trailer. Now, if you’re shipping internationally, then you’re going to incur more costs as the vehicle is going to need to be transported by boat.
Time of Year
The time of year is going to influence the cost of shipping your vehicle. The summer often has higher demand for vehicle shipping, as well as during the winter months during the holidays as there is more shipping happening during this time.
Pickup and Dropoff Locations
You can reduce the cost of your vehicle shipping by opting to have it dropped off at a location and pick it up yourself. If you decide to go for white glove service and have it dropped off and picked up at your desired location, you will need to pay for the last leg of the journey.
Type of Vehicle
The type of vehicle you ship will also influence the cost. Luxury vehicles often have low profiles, and you aren’t going to be able to drive these onto open trailers. You’d likely not want your Lamborghini to be hauled out in the open either, so the enclosed trailer is going to add to the cost of the shipping.
Distance
Almost all transports are priced by the mile. Whether that be 1000 miles or a short drive of 100, each mile is going to add to the price. Auto shipping companies often offer lower prices per mile for longer drives, but you will end up paying more in total.
Cost of Fuel
The cost of fuel is another variable that determines the cost of shipping a vehicle. Depending on the geopolitical circumstances and economic state, the price of gas is going to vary. Higher prices will always be passed on to the customer.
Vehicle Condition
If you are shipping a car that isn’t in working condition, extra precautions have to be taken to ship the vehicle. Since vehicles are typically “rolled on” to the trailers, the non-operational vehicle will need to be craned onto a trailer for shipping.
Tips for Getting Vehicle Cost Estimates
Ask for a flat-rate quote
Often, the quote you receive may differ from the final price due to variables in the shipping process. This happens because shipping companies may not know the final price themselves; it’s up to the drivers to decide if a load is worth their time. In the context of helping cars on the road, this means that pricing can fluctuate based on demand and availability. To manage these changes, it’s helpful to show appreciation with thank you quotes when the service meets your expectations.
To avoid surprises, consider requesting a flat rate quote if possible. While it might not always be feasible, ensuring that the final price isn’t significantly higher than initially quoted helps in avoiding a “bait and switch” scenario. This approach supports transparency and helps in helping cars on the road effectively.
Book in advance
Booking in advance is going to help provide a better price. Just like airlines, shipping companies know that when you need a vehicle shipped shortly, you’re more likely to pay for it. If you can, do all of your research many months before the shipping date for the best price.
By using a calculator like a1autotransport.com’s car shipping calculator, you’ll be able to know the prices far in advance and better plan during the busy (or slow) seasons.
Compare different shipping companies
Check out different shipping companies before you settle on one. Look into their online reviews, and even give them a ring. You want to ensure you’re working with a legitimate company, so look into the FMCSA to verify that they are a legally operating company.
Determine your best options
Not all shipping companies are equal. If you have a luxury vehicle, you may require more high-end service that a typical shipping company doesn’t provide. Check out many companies ahead of time and determine what your best route for shipping your vehicle is for the best results.
Conclusion
Shipping a vehicle can be a complex process, but understanding the factors that influence costs and following the tips provided can help you navigate it more effectively. From considering transport types and seasonal fluctuations to comparing companies and booking in advance, these strategies can lead to significant savings and a smoother experience.
Whether you’re moving across the country or importing a luxury car, this knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions. With careful planning and the right approach, you can turn the potentially stressful task of shipping a vehicle into a manageable and even budget-friendly process.