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4 Reasons to Ship Your Car for Long Distance Travel

September 22, 2023 by Michael Strickland

Long distance auto transport presents logistical challenges. Do you drive your vehicle when moving across the country or to a faraway location? Do you, alternatively, choose to ship it? And if you do ship it, do you flatbed it or trailer it?

These are all important questions to consider. And, while shipping a car can sometimes be more expensive than driving, that’s not always the case. In fact, there are many hidden costs to driving a car yourself over long distances — not to mention potential safety, car maintenance, and wear and tear concerns.

Here are 4 reasons why shipping your car may be the best option for you.

1. Vehicle Wear & Mechanical Concerns

Whether you are looking to transport your exotic car, “garage queen”, or daily driver you will avoid putting mileage on your vehicle and contributing to wear of items like tires and brakes by having your car shipped by a specialty long distance vehicle transport service.

The last thing you want is to break down on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere with no cell service.

While most modern day cars are fairly reliable, if you’re looking to ship a classic or a vehicle that’s been sitting — or a vehicle that’s had its fair share of issues — we highly recommend getting your vehicle shipped.

If you do choose to drive yourself, we encourage you to research & plan your trip route before traveling and find safe places to stay so you don’t wind up broken down in the middle of a crime-riddled area. And don’t skip getting a vehicle trip inspection completed by a mechanic you know and trust and fix anything that needs fixing before traveling. 

2. Convenience & Moving Logistics

Do you have multiple vehicles you’re looking to move long-distance or across the country as part of the moving process? Even if you have all your personal items shipped by a moving company, there’s still the issue of how you’ll transport your cars.

Or maybe, instead, you are buying a classic or vintage vehicle or exotic car, and think it could be fun to take it across the country. Have you thought about the time and cost involved with doing that? While it may seem glamorous in theory, sometimes, this type of journey can be riddled with unforeseen issues and expenses in practice.

The reality is that in many cases of long distance car transportation, shipping a vehicle with a car carrier is often simply more convenient than figuring out the logistics of driving yourself. 

3. Travel Costs

Car transport services and long distance shipping costs can be expensive. And rightly so — after all, you’re paying for professionals to carefully transport your vehicle for you, sometimes over thousands of miles. Choosing the cheapest shipping company, if that’s your aim, is usually *not* recommended, because there are many sketchy shipping companies out there with dubious credentials. That’s what makes the vetting process so important.

Here at Ship a Car Direct, we vet your auto transport company options carefully so you can make the right decision. We have helped over 1,000,000 customers and have over 50,000 reviews.

That being said, people are often surprised when they start to add up the hidden costs of driving their vehicle over long distances, which can include:

  • Hundreds of dollars for gas and tolls
  • Hundreds of dollars (if not more) on lodging, food, and accommodations
  • Mid-journey or pre-journey car repair and maintenance costs
  • Opportunity cost of driving yourself vs. packing or focusing on other priorities

Car Shipping vs Driving Costs: An Example

Say for argument’s sake that you receive a shipping quote of $1,000 to get your car from New York to Los Angeles. If you get 25 mpg and you pay $3.00/gallon for gas, you can expect to spend $360 on gas.

Breaking the trip (which takes about 40-45 hours) up into 5 days, which allows for 8 hours of driving time a day plus stops for gas, food, bathroom breaks, and so on, conservatively, if you spend $150 a night, that’s $750 for lodging. 

Add food and maintenance costs in, and you can see how easily driving yourself can become more expensive than shipping your vehicle.

4. Scheduling, Time, & Effort

If you have a busy work schedule or life jam-packed with things to do — for yourself, for your spouse, or for your kids — can you really spend the associated time and effort involved with driving your car yourself?

The answer may be yes, and then even so, do you want to?

These are the kinds of questions that are important to ask yourself when figuring out your priorities when it comes to costs vs. benefits of shipping your vehicle versus taking a road trip.

Learn More or Get Your Personalized Shipping Quote

Learn more about shipping your car long-distance in this informative blog post.

Looking to make moves soon? When it comes to finances, the best way to determine if shipping is the right move is to get a quote and compare costs. We invite you to do so now, or call us anytime with questions; we’re here to help the often stressful and unclear process of shipping a car go more smoothly!

Filed Under: Car Shipping

Moving Soon? Here’s Why Shipping Your Car Is a Good Idea

September 21, 2023 by Michael Strickland

People choose to have their vehicles transported for all sorts of reasons, from protecting an expensive exotic, preventing a high-mileage vehicle from racking up extra mileage, or, yes, moving cross-country. 

If you’re planning a move (look at you, going places!) — whether it’s 1,500 miles away or 500 miles away — there are a variety of reasons why shipping your car might be the best choice. 

Of course, you should be mindful that shipping a car, as with anything else in life, comes with a cost. For many drivers, the associated cost is well worth it for peace-of-mind alone. 

In fact, depending on where you’re going and how you choose to ship your automobile, contrary to popular belief, shipping a car can sometimes be cheaper than driving it.

Here are four good reasons why you should seriously consider shipping your vehicle for your own benefit during your next big move.

1. The Logistics of Driving When Planning a Solo Move

Ahhhh, moving…Most of us enjoy the feeling of a fresh new start. But getting there? It takes a LOT of work, time, and effort to take an inventory of all your stuff, pack it up safely, and get it to your new home.

Add on top of it the logistics of getting your vehicle to a new place, and it might just  make you want to blow a gasket. Especially if you are moving by yourself.

What are your options?

  • You *could* trailer your vehicle behind a moving van. But then you have to worry about those wide turns… (not to mention sideswiping other cars)....
  • You *could* also ship all your stuff in a moving truck. But then, you have to worry about Grandma’s china tea set that you inherited or Dad’s family picture albums getting ruined.
  • You could ship your car and drive your stuff yourself. You then have to worry about your car getting damaged. Right? — Maybe not — depending on who you ship it with!

Ship a car Direct provides a damage free guarantee for every vehicle shipped through us (which always have primary insurance through the carrier). We are an industry leading car shipping company with an A+ from the BBB and 5 star reviews across the web. Our MC number is 632461. Shipping your car might just be safer than driving yourself!

2. Risk Management

On the subject of safety, we’d be remiss not to address the safety concerns and other risks that come along with driving across the country — especially alone, in unfamiliar surroundings. Here are some things to consider long and hard if you’re torn between shipping and driving:

  • Your Safety
  • Accident, Theft, & Loss
  • Mechanical Issues & Breakdowns

3. Convenience

Shipping a car is much more convenient than having to drive it over a distance of hundreds, or even thousands of miles, worrying about booking hotels in safe areas, researching routes and tolls, and convenient pit stops, and so on…

Shipping a car is thought of by some as a “luxury”...but really, if it is looking next to impossible to move while driving yourself and getting your stuff to its new home, shipping a car can really be more of a necessity. And in other instances, it’s simply more convenient. If, for instance, you need to get back to college by a certain time, or if you’re a snowbird that has trouble driving at night, shipping a car is probably a great option for you.

4. Costs Involved

Among the most commonly misunderstood reasons to transport your car is cost. 

We say that because many people think it’s cheaper to drive their vehicle than to ship it. While in some cases that CAN be true, it isn’t ALWAYS true.

Plus, you’ve got to factor in how much the opportunity cost of driving yourself and risking your safety or a breakdown is, not to mention the value of your time…

There are many things you probably could do yourself if you invested the time and energy to learn how to do…or even things you may already know how to do that it’s just more efficient to outsource. These can include:

  • House cleaning or washing your car
  • Laundering or dry cleaning your clothes
  • Meal prep & delivery
  • Event planning
  • …And, yes…shipping your car instead of driving it yourself!

The truth is that shipping your car is not for everyone. But it might just be for you. Use our quote calculator now to see if that may be the case.

Filed Under: Car Shipping

Behind the Curtain: How are Cars Shipped?

September 9, 2023 by Michael Strickland

Shipping a car can be a daunting task. If you’re unsure of how it works, then developing an understanding of the industry and the process can be helpful.

For anyone who needs to ship a car, understanding the intricacies of what’s involved can be extremely beneficial, not to mention help ensure a hassle-free experience.

In this blog post, we'll take you behind the curtain of car shipping and discuss the most important things you need to know. We’ll answer common car shipping questions like “How does car shipping work?” so you can be prepared. 

Car Shipping Methods

First off, what is car shipping?

Simply put, car shipping is the process of transporting a car from one location to another. When it comes to how cars are shipped, there are two main methods: open and enclosed transportation.

  • Open transportation means your car will be exposed to the elements during transit.
  • Enclosed transportation protects your car from potential damage from the weather or debris on the road.

Depending on the value and condition of your car, one method may be more suitable than the other.

How Does Shipping a Car Work?

How does auto transport work, really? Here’s a simplified overview of the process:

  1. First, the cars are loaded onto a large truck called a car carrier. These carriers can hold multiple vehicles and are specifically designed to transport cars safely and efficiently. 
  2. Once the cars are secured onto the carrier, the driver takes off towards their destination. Some car transport companies may use train or ship transport for longer distances. 
  3. Once the vehicles arrive, the company will send out notifications to customers to pick up their vehicles or they will drop them off at their homes.

Pricing Factors

The cost of car shipping can vary depending on a few factors, such as:

  • Distance
  • Time of year
  • Type of transport needed

The weight of the car can also affect the price since heavier cars take up more space and require more fuel to transport. This is why it’s important to take all personal belongings out of your car and be sure there’s no more than a quarter tank of gas in it.

Paperwork Requirements

Shipping a car also involves paperwork, such as vehicle registration and insurance documents. It's important to have these details sorted out beforehand to ensure a smooth process and avoid any potential delays.

Damage Coverage

Despite precautions such as proper securing and packaging, sometimes accidents happen, and your car may get damaged during transit. There are outside factors like other vehicles on the road and debris, it may not be the carrier's fault at all. 

This is why it's important to know your insurance options and coverage before shipping your car, and to choose a company that offers appropriate protection for your vehicle.

Many companies cannot offer a damage-free guarantee, but we can. 

We work with trusted partners with good track records, people we would trust with our own personal vehicles. 

Tracking and Communication

You may want to choose a car shipping company that offers tracking through GPS systems. Being able to track your car during transit and receive updates on the status of the shipment can provide peace of mind and alleviate any concerns about timing or delivery.

From the shipping company’s perspective, GPS tracking may be too costly or tedious to set up. If this is the case, the company can still communicate openly and thoroughly with you throughout the process via email or text updates. 

Timeframe and Delivery

Shipping a car takes time, and it's important to factor this into your plans.

The timeframe for shipping can vary depending on the shipping distance and route, but it's generally a good idea to plan for a few weeks of transport time if not more.

Also bear in mind that the kinds of massive car transporting trucks that will be carrying your vehicle are often affected by weather, road conditions, and weight- or height-related issues en route.

We strongly advise leaving yourself a time buffer in case your vehicle is delayed in transport. 

It's also important to understand the delivery process, including how you will be notified of delivery and what paperwork you will need to provide at the time. 

All transport carriers are different and may have their own methods of drop-off and pick-up. Be sure to communicate with your shipping company to ensure that the delivery process goes smoothly.

Understanding the Process Helps You Prepare

Shipping a car can be stressful, but understanding the intricacies of the industry can help make the process smoother and more manageable. By choosing a reputable car shipping company, preparing your vehicle properly, understanding the shipping methods, knowing the timeframe for delivery, and getting a clear understanding of the cost, you can ensure a hassle-free shipping experience. 

At Ship a Car Direct, we pride ourselves on offering white-glove service and a damage-free guarantee to ensure that your car arrives at its destination in the same condition it was in when it left. If you’re still wondering, how does car transport work? Reach out today. 

Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today!

Filed Under: Car Shipping

Breaking Down Car Shipping Costs: What to Expect

August 31, 2023 by Michael Strickland

If you’re to move a vehicle a long distance, you’re probably wondering, how much does it cost to ship a car? 

It’s important to have an understanding of what to expect in terms of car shipping costs. In this blog post, we’ll break down the various factors that affect car shipping costs and give you some tips on how to prepare your car for transport. Here are five factors that go into car shipping costs.

1. Distance

One of the primary factors affecting car shipping costs is distance.

As you may have guessed, shipping a car over a long distance will cost more than shipping it over a short one. For example, if you’re moving across the country, you’re likely to pay more than if you were moving to a neighboring state. Of course, this is due to labor costs, gas, mileage, and truck operating expenses.

2. Time of Year

While it may come as a surprise, the time of year when you’re shipping your car does affect the cost. 

  • Shipping costs tend to rise in the summer months because it is the peak moving season when most people are relocating. 
  • Winter months are also bound to cost more as winter weather can pose unpredictable transport challenges.
  • Fall and Spring seem to be perfect seasons for a lower cost to ship your car. The wear is moderate, and they are outside of peak moving seasons. 

3. Type of Vehicle

The type of vehicle you’re shipping will also affect the cost. Simply put, heavier and bigger vehicles will cost more to transport than smaller vehicles. And vehicles that have special modifications for safe transport will also cost more.

4. Door-to-Door Service vs Terminal-to-Terminal Service

Door-to-door service will cost more than terminal-to-terminal service.

  • Door-to-door service means that the car shipping company will pick up and drop off your vehicle from your home
  • Terminal-to-terminal service requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle from a designated terminal.

5. Car Shipping Company Costs

The price of the car shipping service will be determined, usually, by the car shipping company, which likely has a set pricing structure. Some transport companies use fixed pricing while others allow their customers the flexibility to negotiate an agreeable price.

Pro Tip: Watch Out for Hidden Costs

Unfortunately, some less-than-reputable car transport companies may sneak in hidden costs that can end up leaving you with a much higher bill than initially expected.

These hidden fees can range from fuel surcharges to loading and unloading fees and even storage fees if your car takes time to ship or get picked up. 

Don't be afraid to ask questions and read the fine print before signing on the dotted line. You don't want to end up with a transport bill that'll make you regret shipping your car in the first place.

Remember, Shipping Car Costs Should be Transparent

If you have questions about the quote you’ve received for the cost of shipping a car, reach out to the company and ask for a breakdown of the budget. If they can’t provide you with reasons for the price, you may want to find a company that can. 

Of course, using a transport broker company like Ship a Car Direct will result in transparent pricing before you embark on your journey. 

Learn More: Get a Car Shipping Quote Today

Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today!

Filed Under: Car Shipping

Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping a Car to Another State

August 14, 2023 by Michael Strickland

Trying to figure out how to ship a car to another state can be stressful and confusing. There are many factors to consider, such as choosing the right carrier, protecting your vehicle from damage, and ensuring that it arrives at its destination on time. 

Unfortunately, many people make mistakes when shipping their car, which can lead to delays, additional expenses, and even damage to their vehicle — especially when shipping out of state. In this blog post, we will discuss how to transport a car to another state and avoid the common mistakes associated with it.

Choosing the Wrong Carrier

One of the most common mistakes people make when shipping their car is choosing the wrong carrier. There are many carriers available, but not all of them offer the same level of service. It's important to choose a carrier that is reliable, experienced and has a good reputation. 

If you are sourcing a carrier on your own, do your due diligence and research the company carefully before hiring them. Look at reviews online, ask them pertinent questions, and be sure to visit them in person if you can. This will help ensure that you’ve chosen a trustworthy carrier to ship a car to another state.

Of course, you can also hire an unbiased, third-party company like Ship a Car Direct. We source the carriers for you (working with only vetted and trusted companies) and add a layer of protection with our damage-free guarantee. 

Not Inspecting the Vehicle

It's critical to inspect your car before it's shipped. Make sure that you inspect it thoroughly for any damage, scratches, or dents. Take photos of your car from all angles, including the interior, and make sure that you have a record of any pre-existing damage. This will help you to ensure that your vehicle is delivered in the same condition that it was picked up in.

Not Properly Securing Your Belongings

When shipping your car, it's important to remember that anything inside your car will also be transported. If you have any personal items in your car, make sure that they are secured properly. Loose items can cause damage to the interior of your car or even cause accidents during transportation. Also, items inside your car can change the weight of your vehicle, which can affect the cost of transport.

Plus, insurance will not cover any personal items inside your car in the event of an accident. It is best to remove all personal items from your car before shipping it.

Not Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping

Preparing your vehicle for shipping is essential to ensure that it arrives in the same condition as it was picked up in. Some simple steps you can take include removing any personal items from your car, making sure that your gas tank is nearly empty, and disconnecting your car alarm if you have one. These simple steps can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience.

Not Getting Insurance

Lastly, not getting insurance can be the most costly mistake you make when shipping your car. Even if you choose a reputable carrier, accidents can happen.

Make sure that your car is fully insured during transport to protect it against any damage that may occur. Don't assume that the carrier's insurance will cover everything. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Protect Your Assets When It Comes to Shipping Cars to Another State

Transporting a car to another state can be a stressful and confusing process. Knowing how to ship cars to another state without making common mistakes will help you protect your assets.

Choosing the right carrier, inspecting your vehicle, securing your belongings, preparing your vehicle for shipping, and getting insurance are all critical steps in ensuring that your car arrives at its destination safely and on time.

By following these tips, you can make the car shipping process as stress-free as possible. If you need any help with shipping your car, don't hesitate to contact a reputable company like Ship a Car Direct.

Filed Under: Car Shipping

The Ultimate Guide: How to Get Your Car Ready for Shipping

July 31, 2023 by Michael Strickland

Shipping a car to a new location can be a big, stressful task. If you're moving cross-country and need to transport your vehicle, it's important to prepare it well so that it reaches its destination safely. 

In this ultimate guide, we'll explore how to ship a car across the country, several factors to consider when shipping a car, how to protect your car during shipping, and answer some common questions you might have about the process.

What to be Aware of When Shipping a Car Cross-Country

When you're not there to supervise your vehicle, shipping can be risky. Do your research: look for trustworthy transport companies with excellent customer reviews and competitive prices. 

Check their credentials and make sure they have a license to operate and are insured. Ask for a written agreement and try to clarify all the procedures. Also, it's a good idea to document your car’s condition thoroughly before transporting it. Take high-quality images and make note of any damages or scratches it has.

If you can’t (or don’t want to) spend the time researching reputable companies, trust Ship a Car Direct to do it for you. We facilitate cross-country car shipping and only work with vetted, trusted car transport companies. We offer a damage-free guarantee to protect your asset and white-glove service.

How You Can Protect Your Car When Shipping

Once you have researched different companies and found the one that is the right fit for your needs, it’s time to prepare your car.

Start by cleaning it thoroughly to make sure it’s in good condition before transport. Any items in the car should be removed, and the fuel should be left with a quarter of a tank or less. You should turn off any car alarms, too.

How Clean Your Car Should Be Before Shipping

Before your cross-country vehicle transport takes place, cleaning it thoroughly is a good idea. This way, you can see any areas of damage that you may not have noticed under dust or mud.

Give your vehicle a thorough wash. You should remove any personal belongings, including anything of value, as most companies will not insure shipped personal belongings in the car. It can be a safety and weight concern, depending on what you have.

Can My Car Get Damaged During Shipping?

While transporting automobiles from one state to another, it is rare for damages to occur to the vehicle, but it’s always better to be prepared.

Choose an insured transporter to cover any losses in case of damage. Document your vehicle’s condition, and check its condition at delivery against the original condition at pickup. If there is any damage, notify the transport company immediately and take pictures if possible.

With Ship A Car Direct’s damage-free guarantee, you can be sure that your vehicle is covered during shipping.

Questions You Should Ask Before Shipping a Car

Before you take service from a car hauler, you need to ensure you're making the right choice for your car. Here are some of the questions you should ask any company you're considering:

  • What kind of insurance coverage do they offer?
  • What kind of delivery timelines do they provide?
  • What licensing and certifications do they have?
  • Do they have a damage-free guarantee policy?
  • What payments are accepted for the service offered?
  • Are there any hidden costs like fuel fees or surcharges?
  • How do they handle difficult locations such as narrow streets or small communities?

That’s Everything You Need to Know on How to Ship a Car Across Country Stress-free

Shipping a car is a complicated process, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth endeavor. By researching transport companies, preparing your vehicle, and understanding how the process works, your car will arrive at its destination safely and securely. If you still have questions on how to transport cars across country, check out these FAQs on car shipping. 

Remember, when in doubt, always ask questions and work with a reputable transporter or facilitator that offers coverages like Ship A Car Direct’s damage-free guarantee.

"Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today!

Filed Under: Car Shipping

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Move Across the Country

July 5, 2023 by Michael Strickland

Moving can be tough, especially when you have to move across the country. Not only do you have to worry about packing, finding a new home, and adjusting to a new environment, but you also have to think about how you are going to get your car to the new location. 

Shipping your car may seem like an added expense, but it can save you from a whole lot of stress, especially if you are moving to a place that is too far to drive. In this guide, we will give you a step-by-step plan on how to move across the country with your car.

Plan Ahead

Moving a car across the country requires a lot of planning, organization, and preparation. It's crucial to start planning as early as possible to avoid any last-minute surprises. When figuring out how to move a car across the US or another country, staying as organized as possible will be your number one help.

Create a checklist and start working through it systematically, start with the big ticket items, like how you will move your car and furniture, then move on to the smaller ticket items. Make sure that you have all the necessary documents, such as your driver's license, social security card, and proof of insurance, and ensure that they are up to date. 

Research the Best Car Shipping Companies

With moving your car, you’re going to need to research the best car shipping companies if you aren’t planning on driving your car across the country. Figuring out how to relocate across the country with your car doesn’t have to be too stressful, you just need to find the right support. 

There are numerous companies that offer car shipping services, but not all are created equal. Look for companies that are well-established, have top-rated reviews, and offer the services that you require. 

To get the best service, do your research online, get quotes from multiple companies, and compare them to find the most affordable option. Or you can hire a white glove service like Ship a Car Direct, which has its own vetted and trusted car shipping companies it uses. 

Book Your Car Shipping Services

Once you have found a car shipping company that suits your needs, it’s time to book your services. When booking, ensure that you disclose all the necessary details about your car, including make, model, and year. 

You should also provide information about your current location and destination. The company will then provide an estimated timeline for delivery, and you should make arrangements to ensure that you will be finished with your move and available to receive your car, or arrange for your car to wait in a secure location until your cross-country move is complete. 

Prepare Your Car for Shipping

Before shipping your car, you need to prepare it for transport. This means cleaning it thoroughly, removing all personal belongings, and ensuring that there is no more than a quarter tank of gas.

It can be tempting to use the car shipping service as a way to pack your car full of your belongings to move them, but this is not advisable. Your personal belongings are not insured like your car is for transport.

You should also document and take pictures of any existing damages to your car before shipping.

Choose a Suitable Method of Transport

There are two primary options for shipping your car: open and enclosed transport. Open transport is the most popular and affordable option, but your car will be exposed to the elements during transport. 

Enclosed transport, on the other hand, is more expensive but provides more protection. Choose the method of transport that is best for your budget and the condition of your car.

Moving You and Your Car Across the Country Doesn’t Have to be Hard

Moving your car across the country can be a daunting task, but with the right preparations, it can be less stressful. Taking your car with you will provide a sense of familiarity as you venture into the unknown.

By following the steps outlined above, you can ship your car safely, efficiently, and with minimal stress. With these steps, you can move across the country with your car with ease and peace of mind.

Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today!

Filed Under: Car Shipping

Shipping a Financed Car: Can You Do It? An Expert Guide

June 26, 2023 by Michael Strickland

Wondering, can I ship a car that is financed? You’re not alone. Shipping a financed car may seem like a tricky and complicated task, but it does not need to be. Moving a car from point A to B is common nowadays, especially with the increased popularity of online car sales and relocation services. 

If you happen to own a car that you are still making payments on, it is natural to be worried about whether you can ship it or not. In this guide, we will explore the ins and outs of shipping a financed car and everything you need to know to make the process as seamless as possible.

Check with your Lender

Before you ship your car, the first thing to do is check with your lender to ensure whether you are allowed to ship the financed vehicle. Most car finance companies allow shipping as long as the necessary documentation is available. You may also need to obtain written permission to do so. 

The lending company will provide you with instructions on what to do and what their expectations are. They may require you to acquire specific insurance covering your car during and after the shipment.

Get Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Accidents can happen, and your financed car may suffer damage during shipping. Thus, it's essential to know how to insure a financed car before you ship your financed car. You may have gotten car finance with insurance included, but be sure to check that your policy covers shipping. If you’re unsure, check with your lending company on where you stand with financing a car and insurance. 

While most auto transport companies carry insurance, their coverage may not be enough to cover the full value of your car. So it's best to check their policy and consider getting additional coverage if necessary.

Some companies, like Ship a Car Direct, will offer a guaranteed damage-free shipping experience, but it is important to also know the ins and outs of your own comprehensive insurance policy. 

Choose a Reliable Shipping Company

One of the most important decisions you will make during the process of shipping your car is choosing a reliable shipping company. You can look for a reputable company that specializes in car shipping and has an excellent reputation, in terms of timely delivery and professionalism. Always read their reviews before choosing your preferred company.

You can also trust Ship a Car Direct to find a reputable company for you. We offer a white glove, no-damage guaranteed service so you don’t have to worry about dinging your financed vehicle. 

Prepare Your Car for Shipping:

Now that you have chosen a shipping company, it's time to prepare your car for shipment. Start by cleaning the car thoroughly to check for any existing damages. Take some photos or videos just in case any issues arise during shipping. 

Remove all personal items from the vehicle, as these items are not covered by shipping insurance. It is also advisable to turn off any car alarms your car may have.

Choose Your Shipping Method

After preparing your car for shipping, you can consider the different shipping methods available and choose the one that suits you best. There are two main types of shipping: open-air and enclosed transport. An open-air transport service is the most affordable option and is suitable for most cars. However, if you own a unique or expensive car, then choosing an enclosed transport service may be ideal.

Have a Shipping Plan

Finally, you must coordinate with your shipping company to ensure your car is being shipped according to your preferred timeline. It would be best if you made sure that the shipping date, delivery location, and pickup location work for you and the shipping company. 

Be available when the shipping company arrives to pick up or deliver the car, and inspect it to ensure all is as expected before signing any documents.

You can Easily Ship a Financed Car by Following these Steps

Shipping a financed car may seem complicated, but following the expert guide above can make the process seamless. Ensure that your lender permits shipping and choose a reputable and reliable shipping company, or use Ship a Car Direct. Prepare your car, choose the best shipping method, and coordinate your shipping plan with the shipping company. 

With these tips in mind, shipping your financed car will be a stress-free process, and your precious car will arrive at its destination in excellent condition.

Filed Under: Car Shipping

A Comprehensive Guide on How to Track a Car in Transit

June 5, 2023 by Michael Strickland

Are you planning to transport your car to another state but want to keep an eye on it during the journey? You are not alone! Tracking your car during transit is a popular ask from our customers who want to ensure safe and timely delivery.

While we at Ship a Car Direct do not offer real-time online car tracking within our systems, we can make sure your car carrier supplier does if you request it. But before we get there, let’s talk about the logistics of how to track a car.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the various ways to track your car and the tools required to do so. Keep reading to learn about all the different methods!

How to Track a Car Location Online

The first and most common way to track your car in transit is through an online tracking system.

A few transport companies provide an online tracking number that enables you to monitor your car's location during its journey from your phone or desktop. To access the tracking information, you typically need to go to the company's website, enter your tracking number, and wait for the system to update.

This method is effortless and convenient as it saves time and offers online information about your car's location.

How to Track a Car Using Email Updates

Another option is to receive email updates about your car's journey.

Some shipping companies do not have online tracking systems, but they offer to send customers regular email updates until the car reaches its destination.

This method requires you to enter a valid email address to receive updates regularly. It's a good option if you don't want to keep logging in to an online portal to check your car's status.

How to Track a Car Location Using Phone Call Updates

If you prefer to speak to a representative personally, you can call and request a location update for your car.

Most shipping companies have customer service lines that you can call to check on the status of your car. This method requires you to wait for a representative to answer the phone and provide the necessary information. However, it's a good option if you don't have an internet connection or prefer to receive updates orally.

How to Track Your Car with Automatic Tracking Updates

Lastly, some car shipping carriers send automatic tracking updates throughout the transport's duration. This means that you don't have to keep checking for updates actively.

You will receive notifications on your phone or email regarding your car's location and other relevant information. It's often the most convenient option as it saves time and effort on your part; anytime there is a status change or date estimate change in the system, you’ll get a text message if you’ve signed up for SMS updates.

Ensuring Safe and Timely Delivery is our Specialty

In conclusion, tracking your car during transit can help you feel secure. The four main methods involve tracking your car online, receiving email updates, checking your status over the phone, and receiving automatic tracking updates. It's important to choose the tracking method that suits your needs and preferences best.

Bear in mind that not all shipping companies provide tracking services, but you can always request one when you book with Ship a Car Direct. We pride ourselves on white-glove service, so anything you need, you simply need to ask.
Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today!

Filed Under: Car Transport, Car Shipping

Buying a Car Online: A Guide to Safe Delivery and Purchase

May 22, 2023 by asawyer

Buying a car is exciting, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. It’s even more challenging when you’re wondering, can you buy a car online and have it delivered? Don’t worry, we will help you buy your car online and have it delivered safely.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to buy a car online and have it delivered safely. As a company that specializes in car shipping, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to share our expertise with you.

Research, research, research

Are you asking yourself, can I buy a car online and have it delivered without losing my investment? The answer is yes — if you do your research. There are plenty of websites that allow you to buy cars online, but not all of them are trustworthy.

Start by checking the website’s reviews and ratings on trustworthy platforms. Look for red flags such as negative reviews, no contact information, or unrealistic prices. If it’s too good to be true, it usually is.

Look for cars that have detailed descriptions, high-quality photos, and car history reports. And don’t be afraid to ask questions; before making any purchase, make sure you feel confident and comfortable with the vehicle and the seller.

Take Advantage of Independent Inspectors

Once you find a car you like, it’s time to have it inspected. Committing to buying a new car online and having it delivered means you will want to have someone in-person that can vouch for the car.

The best way to ensure that the car is in good condition is to hire a third party with no skin in the game. These inspectors should be independent and not affiliated with sellers or dealerships. Find one who will perform a thorough inspection and provide you with a detailed report.

With this information, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to purchase the vehicle.

Secure Payment

When it comes to online car buying, nothing is more crucial than secure payment and shipping. Use secure payment methods such as PayPal, credit cards, or bank transfers. Stay away from sellers that ask for cash or wire transfers, which can be fraudulent.

Have Your Car Shipped to You

The safest way to have your car delivered is to use a licensed and insured auto transport company. These companies are experts in shipping cars and have the necessary tools and resources to ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination safely.

At Ship a Car Direct, we source trusted and vetted auto transport companies for you. We can provide door-to-door delivery, different types of transportation, like enclosed or open, and always our iron-clad damage-free guarantee. The last thing you want is to have your brand-new car dinged up on the way over.

Be Prepared for Delivery

Before your car leaves for delivery, make sure you are prepared. If you got an inspection, ask them to make note of any existing damage on your vehicle. Ask them to send photos of the car from all angles, and send them to you.

Upon delivery, inspect the vehicle carefully before signing any documents. In case of any damages, report it to your shipping company immediately. And remember, Ship a Car Direct offers a Damage Free Guarantee policy to ensure safe delivery of your car.

Exercise Caution Throughout the Process

Buying a car online and getting it delivered can be a smooth process if you stay cautious and informed. Always remember to research, use independent inspectors and secure payment methods, use licensed and insured auto transport companies, and be prepared for delivery. If you follow these tips, you’ll be driving your new car in no time.

Professional Services make Buying a Car Online and Having it Delivered Stress-free

Buying a car online and having it delivered can be intimidating, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it can be done easily and safely. By researching trustworthy websites, using independent inspectors, securing payment and shipping, being prepared for delivery, and staying cautious throughout the process, you can purchase your dream car online with confidence.

At Ship a Car Direct, we’re always ready to help you with your car shipping needs. Contact us today for a free quote.

Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today!

Filed Under: Car Transport, Car Shipping

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