When it comes to moving, there are many things to remember. Movers try to think about all the items within the home in each room that they want to ship and where they want it to be put in the new home. They think about all the items within the home that are not placed in normal locations that they do not want to forget to pack.

There are always things that need to be shipped that are not common everyday bags or box items. There are large items like refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers that are within the house that will need to be shipped but may not need to be wrapped or boxed. Then again, there are items in the shed that will need to be shipped like a mower, a weed eater, and gardening tools. However, don’t forget that there are garage tools too, but there is also the car that will be needed at the new home.

Ask friends and family for suggestions on car transport companies that they have used before and would suggest or state to avoid. Just like for any other sale or service, do not hesitate to read the reviews of previous customers; they know quality and what services are expected. There is also the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that has a website that can be trusted for transportation reviews.

When using a transportation broker, they have agreements with several different agencies nationwide. This allows you to find the best option for your unique situation. Their relationships with these agencies can help them negotiate a far better rate. This means that you are likely to get exceptional value. 

Using a broker also means that you’ll have access to more options. So whether you are looking for speedy shipping, the lowest price, or special shipping circumstances, a broker can likely find the best match for your needs. They will also take the research off your plate as they will usually only work with the more reputable and reliable shippers.

One you do the research, you will find that shipping companies can often be cheaper than what is generally perceived.

Open trailer car shipping is placing the car on a trailer and securing the car with chains, nylon straps, or wheel nets. It tends to be the less expensive trailer shipment but can also be riskier for damage because on an open trailer, damage can come from road debris, theft, and even the different weather that the trailer may encounter along the road trip. 

However, if you aren’t shipping a luxury or exotic car, open trailer shipping can give you the most value. It’s also the most popular so will likely have a wider variety of scheduling options. Just make sure to inspect your vehicle’s condition prior to and after its journey. 

Closed trailer car shipping does not have as high clearance but usually uses liftgates to add or remove the car to the trailer, which is safer for the car. The chances of damage to the car because of weather or theft are almost eliminated because of the enclosure. They also usually have nylon straps inside the carriers for vehicle transportation safety.

This is a good option if you have a high-end vehicle or classic car. While it’s a pricier option, it better protects the finish of your vehicle from elements it will encounter along the way. The heftier price tag might be worth it for your peace of mind. 

There are services available for driving your vehicle so that it will not be put in a carrier with other vehicles. They are professional drivers that are usually for short distances. There are also some that have additional shipping allowances such as boxes in the trunks and backseats and some will even allow the transport of some personal belongings like pets.

 

When moving, money can become tight quickly, so looking for cheaper options may become necessary. Non-professional drivers are cheaper because they tend to be average people looking for extra money like college students in between semesters. Make sure there is insurance coverage for other drivers and theft on the car.

What may seem like a simple straight path for the truck to get the car from A to B may not be what is used by the 18 wheel transportation vehicle. There are many vehicles on the truck going to different locations and that may mean zigzagging and many stops. A drive that could be done in two days may take a week.

Make sure to do a thorough interior cleaning of the car. Take the time to wash the exterior for distinction and clarity. Take pictures before the transport so that if there are any scratches, cracks, dings, etc. there are pictures to show that it happened during the transport and see what was compared to what is.

Gas is not something that would be thought to be an issue if the car is being moved on a trailer, however, it can be. Calculate the mileage to the trailer company that is taking it and from where the trailer is going to leave it to the new home. Then make sure there is enough gas in the car to cover that mileage and a little more. Be sure to check with a carrier for the maximum amount of gas allowed. 

Make sure to go through the car and remove any personal items. Check the trunk, glove compartment, even under the seats. Remove anything that shows addresses, credit card numbers, or even cell phone numbers. It would be nice to think that all the employees in the company that was hired are honest, but that doesn’t mean that at a stop for a restroom break someone else won’t jump into an unlocked car.