If you are in need of car transportation for your vehicle from one location to another, you have a few options. Two of the most common transport options are towing and auto shipping. While they may sound similar, there are actually a few distinct differences between these two types of transport. Here we will take a closer look at the differences between towing and shipping so you can decide which option is best for you.
Driving your vehicle might be the first thing that comes to mind, however, this isn’t always feasible. Cross-country drives can be exhausting, not to mention the wear and tear it can put on your vehicle. For this reason, many people prefer to have their vehicle transported.
Towing Your Car
Towing is a process that many people are more familiar with as opposed to shipping. When your car is towed, it is parked on top of a trailer or platform that is pulled by a tow car. This option allows people to pull their car themselves, which can certainly seem more affordable.
However, it is important to note that certain equipment is required in order to tow a vehicle.
First off, you have to have a trailer in order to tow your vehicle. A towing trailer secures your vehicle and is required for any vehicle that is not all-wheel drive. Secondly, your trailer must be hitched to the rear of the vehicle you are driving. This means, you must purchase a trailer hitch as well. Finally, you must own another vehicle that is capable of towing a vehicle a long distance. You will need to check the weight of your trailer and the vehicle being towed and compare that to your other car’s towing capacity.
As you can see, towing a vehicle may seem like a cheaper option, but that’s only if you already have all of the necessary equipment. For those who do not have a trailer, hitch, or strong enough towing vehicle, shipping will be a better option. Furthermore, you assume several risks when you tow your own car. There is always the possibility that something could go wrong that could damage your vehicle. In addition, towing puts a great deal of wear and tear on the engine of the tow vehicle.
Shipping Your Car
Car shipping is the most convenient way to get your vehicle from Point A to Point B. Since it is designed for long-distance transport, auto shipping carriers are knowledgeable and specialized in transporting vehicles across the country safely and efficiently. In addition, car shipping is often more affordable than towing it. Renting a trailer can be expensive, not to mention the cost of gas, food, and lodging along the way.
If you choose to have your car shipped, you can arrange to have it picked up either at your home directly or at a nearby terminal. Upon arrival, you can again have your vehicle delivered directly to your door or you can pick it up at another terminal in that city. Furthermore, you have the option to have your car shipped in an open or enclosed trailer.
Open Car Carriers vs. Enclosed Car Carriers
Enclosed trailers provide additional protection against the outdoor elements, making that a great option for luxury, antique, or classic cars. While car shipping can take anywhere from a few days to a couple weeks, you can rest assured that your vehicle will not be subject to additional wear and tear. Most auto shipping companies also have insurance, giving you additional peace of mind in case something unexpected happened along the way.
And if you're asking yourself; "How much does it cost to ship a car?", since auto shipping companies can transport multiple vehicles at once, they can keep prices relatively low which can save you money.
What is auto transport and how does it differ from towing?
Auto transport refers to hiring a specialized carrier to move your vehicle from one location to another, often across states, using trailers (open or enclosed). In contrast, towing typically means using your own vehicle or rental trailer to pull your car, which can increase wear, risk and logistical burden.
When should I choose car transportation services instead of driving the vehicle myself?
If you’re moving long-distance, want to avoid mileage and wear on your vehicle, or don’t have the equipment/hitch for towing — then professional car transportation services make more sense. They handle logistics, pickup/delivery and insurance, making the process far easier.
What are the typical transit times for interstate car transportation?
Transit times vary by distance and route, but for coast-to-coast moves you’re generally looking at 7 to 10 days. Shorter routes (e.g., from a coast to the Midwest) often run 3 to 7 days. These are estimates — weather, carrier load and traffic can affect timing.
Are there specialized options within auto transport I should know about?
Yes — most car transportation services offer open-carrier (standard, more affordable) and enclosed-carrier (extra protection for luxury or classic vehicles). Door-to-door pickup and delivery is also common — the carrier comes to your location and drops off at yours (if accessible).
What should I check when booking car transportation services?
Make sure the auto transport company is properly insured, your pickup/delivery addresses are carrier-accessible, and whether there are weight or item-packing restrictions inside the vehicle. Confirm estimated dates, costs and whether the carrier covers your route.
Can I pack items inside the vehicle when using auto transport?
In most cases no — car transportation providers typically require the vehicle be free of household goods or heavy items. While items amounting to less than a hundred pounds might slip through, the official stance is that packing additional cargo can violate carrier contracts and insurance terms.
Car Transportation to or from another state
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