Car shipping has become a popular choice for people who are moving or selling cars and even car enthusiasts. It offers convenience and efficiency by allowing individuals to transport their vehicles over distances without having to drive themselves. However, the cost of car shipping can vary based on important factors. In this article, we will explore these factors and provide insights into what determines the costs of shipping a car.
Vehicle size and weight
One of the factors that affect car shipping costs is the size and weight of the vehicle being transported. Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs require space on carriers, resulting in shipping expenses. Additionally, heavier vehicles may require equipment or modifications to handle their weight during transportation, which further increases the cost. In some cases, oversized vehicles may need shipments or unique transportation arrangements due to their dimensions or weight. Therefore, you will need a good car shipping calculator like RoadRunner Auto Transport to get the best estimates.
Transport distance
Another significant factor that influences car shipping costs is the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations. Naturally, longer distances lead to increased fuel consumption by carriers and more time spent on the road. Consequently, when you’re transporting a vehicle across state lines or from one coast to another, it’s important to anticipate fees.
Type of carrier
The type of carrier you choose for transporting your vehicle also affects the cost. There are two types: open carriers and enclosed carriers. Open carriers load vehicles onto a trailer, leaving them exposed to potential weather damage and other external elements like debris during transportation. On the other hand, enclosed carriers offer protection by housing each vehicle inside a fully covered container throughout the entire journey.
Open carriers are commonly used because they are cost-effective due to their capacity, which is particularly beneficial for bulk shipments. However, opting for an enclosed carrier ensures security. Usually, it comes at a higher price due to lower transport capacity and additional protective measures.
Location accessibility
The accessibility of pick-up and drop-off locations also factors into car shipping costs. If either location is in a lesser-known area, it may require more logistical efforts to complete the transport, potentially increasing the overall cost. It can include considerations such as distance from highways, availability of suitable depots or hubs near restricted access roads, or areas prone to traffic congestion. The more challenging it is for carriers to reach these areas efficiently, the higher the potential cost may become.
Seasonal demand
The time of year can influence car shipping costs. Prices tend to rise during seasons or specific months when demand for vehicle transportation services increases. This increase can be attributed to factors such as people relocating for job opportunities before the fall season begins, which strains carrier capacities leading up to the peak moving season around summertime. Additionally, there is heightened demand during winter months when snowbirds migrate south.
Additional services
Apart from the cost components mentioned earlier, customers may choose services that can moderately impact shipping costs but provide substantial value and convenience. These services include expedited delivery ( at a rate due to priority treatment), door-to-door service (where vehicles are picked up and delivered directly at customer-specified locations instead of terminals), and guaranteed delivery dates (ensuring timely arrival).
Insurance coverage
When using a car shipping company, it’s essential to consider insurance coverage for damage during transit. Reputable car shipping companies offer insurance that protects vehicles such as traditional vehicles or self-driing cars against risks such as accidents or theft while in their possession.
Basic insurance is often included at no charge in cases, while additional extended coverage may come with added fees.
Conclusion
Having an understanding of the factors that affect the cost of shipping a car can help individuals make informed decisions when it comes to transporting their vehicles safely and conveniently over long distances. Factors such as the size and weight of the vehicle, the distance of transport, the type of carrier used, accessibility of location, seasonal demand, services required, and insurance coverage all play a huge role in determining costs. By considering these factors and making thought-out decisions that align with their needs and budget, individuals can ensure a smooth car shipping experience at an acceptable cost.
Featured image credit: Markus Spiske/Unsplash
