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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

The Cheapest Way to Ship a Car: A Comparison of Auto Transport Methods

April 23, 2023 by asawyer

Shipping your car can be a daunting experience. With so many auto transport methods available, it’s tough to choose which one is the cheapest yet most reliable. You want to be sure your vehicle is safe but don’t want to break the bank. 

When it comes to the vehicle transport industry, there are various methods of shipping, from open-air car carriers to enclosed trailers, and the prices vary depending on safety, speed, and convenience. In this blog, we’ll compare different auto transport methods and determine the cheapest way to ship your car. 

Open-air car carriers: The cheapest way to ship a vehicle

One of the most common methods for shipping a car is with an open-air car carrier. This is likely because this method is the cheapest way to ship a car, but it comes with certain risks. 

Your vehicle will be hauled on a flatbed truck along with several other cars, which means your car will be exposed to the elements on the way. This increases the risk of damage to your car if it’s a long-distance transport or the weather conditions aren’t ideal. If you have a luxury vehicle or an antique car, it is worth looking at other options that still can impart cost savings. 

Despite the risk, open-air car carriers remain a popular choice because of their affordability.

Enclosed trailers: Still cost-effective but safer 

If you’re looking for more protection, then an enclosed trailer is a more secure option that still is not the most expensive way to ship your car.  

The enclosed trailer provides more protection against the elements, but it’s usually more expensive than open-air car carriers. Enclosed trailers are a better option for classic cars or luxury vehicles where owners are looking for an extra layer of protection. 

Despite the fact that enclosed trailers cost more, transporting your car in an enclosed trailer gives you the peace of mind that your car won’t be exposed to the elements. 

Terminal-to-terminal: when you can pick up and drop off your car

Terminal-to-terminal auto transport is another cost-effective option when shipping your vehicle. This method requires you to drop your car off at a terminal or depot, and then the carrier will transport it to the destination terminal or depot. 

Although this method saves you money, it can be inconvenient as it requires additional time for pick-up and drop-off. You’ll also need to arrange for transportation to and from the terminals.

With this method, you can usually still choose between open and closed carriers. 

Door-to-door delivery: Slightly more but much more convenient 

As the name implies, with door-to-door delivery, the carrier picks up the car from your home or office and delivers it to the destination address, such as your new home. 

This service is a more expensive option than terminal-to-terminal, but it’s also the most convenient.

This option saves you time and makes things easier for people who do not have the resources to transport their car to a terminal or depot. It could potentially save you money if you would need to take an expensive cab ride to or from the terminal. 

Employ Ship A Car Direct and get a Damage-free Guarantee

Having a car shipped can be an expensive process, but with this comparison of different auto transport methods, you can easily determine the cheapest way to ship a car that suits your needs. 

Remember, the more affordable the auto transport method is, the less protection is typically provided. Consider your budget, schedule, and the value of your car before choosing the auto transport method that suits your needs best.

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

Filed Under: Car Shipping

What Exactly is a Car Transporter and What Do They Do?

April 19, 2023 by asawyer

Have you ever thought about the logistics of sending your car across the country or even overseas? It’s not as simple as having someone drive it from point A to point B. Enter the car transporter: professionals who specialize in shipping cars from one location to another safely and efficiently. 

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of car transporters, how they work, and what you should expect when using their services.

What is a car transporter and what is a car carrier?

First and foremost, let’s define what a car transporter is. A car transporter, also known as an auto transporter, is a specialized type of trailer that is designed for transporting vehicles. They may also be called car carriers. 

These trailers can typically hold anywhere from one to six cars, depending on the size and configuration of the trailer. Car transporters are commonly used to transport cars to dealerships, auctions, and even private residences, eliminating the need for long-distance drives. 

How do you use a car transporter?

So, how do you use a car transporter? If you’re looking to ship your car, the first step is to find a reputable and experienced car transporter company. You can research companies online or ask for recommendations from friends or family. 

Or, you can cut out the middleman and hire a service like Ship a Car Direct. We find reputable car transporter companies for you and cover your transportation with a no-damage guarantee. 

If you decide to find a car carrier company yourself, you’ll need to provide them with your vehicle’s make, model, and size. They will also need to know the pickup and drop-off locations, as well as the desired timeframe for delivery. 

The car transporter will then provide you with a quote for their services, which will vary depending on the distance, size of the vehicle, and other factors.

If you choose to use Ship a Car Direct, we’ll walk you through our process for getting your car onto a car carrier. With us, you can speak to an agent and get an accurate quote. You can also ask about the options available to you for shipping your car. We’re unbiased in which company you use, so we will give you our honest opinion about what will work for you, your budget, and your needs.

Car haulers: Who are they?

Next, let’s talk about what you call people who transport cars. You wouldn’t want to commit a social faux pas when it comes to the auto industry.

While ‘car transporter’ is an accurate description of the job, people in this profession are often referred to as car haulers or auto transporters. These individuals have specialized training and licenses to ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and on time.

How is a car carrier loaded?

Finally, let’s touch on how a transporter is loaded. Depending on the type of car transporter, vehicles can be loaded in a variety of ways. Open car carriers typically use ramps to load the cars onto the trailer, while enclosed carriers may use hydraulics or lifts to load the cars inside. 

It’s important to note that the car transporters we vouch for take great care when loading and securing vehicles to ensure there is no damage during transit.

Choose Ship a Car Direct for stress-free transport 

If you’re looking to ship your car, a car transporter can be a stress-free option. These professionals specialize in safely and efficiently moving vehicles from one location to another, making long-distance moves and purchases far less daunting. 
Looking to ship your car? Get a quote at our Ship a Car Direct website today!

Filed Under: Car Shipping

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii?

March 29, 2023 by asawyer

So you've decided to take the plunge and move to Hawaii. Congratulations! The islands are wonderful places to live, and you're sure to enjoy your new life in paradise. But before you can start packing your bags and saying aloha to your friends and family on the mainland, there's one important question you need to answer: how are you going to get your car to Hawaii?

If you're like most people, you probably don't want to leave your beloved car behind. After all, it's not just a mode of transportation; it's a part of your life. Fortunately, you can ship your car by sea to Hawaii. 

In this blog post, we'll take a look at shipping your car by sea to Hawaii. By the time you're finished reading, you'll know exactly what you need to know to get your car from point A (the mainland) to point B (the Hawaiian Islands). Let's get started!

How to Prepare Your Car for Shipment by Sea

Shipping your car to Hawaii by sea is a popular method for many who want to bring their vehicle, but it requires some preparation.

Step 1: Choose a Port

The first step in preparing your car for shipment by sea is selecting a port. Hawaii has three main ports where cargo ships dock: Seattle, Oakland, and Long Beach. Determine which port is nearest to your location to make transportation easier and less expensive.

Step 2: Check your car's condition

The next step is ensuring your car is in good condition to prevent mishaps during shipment. Check your car's brakes, tire pressure, and fluid levels. Remove any personal items from the car, turn off any alarms, and make sure the fuel tank is not more than a quarter full. Taking these steps minimizes the risks of car damage during shipping.

Step 3: Hire a Shipping company

Hiring a reliable shipping company will guarantee a smooth and timely shipment of your car to Hawaii. Research shipping companies online and check reviews from previous clients to ensure you choose a reputable company. Make sure the shipping company provides you with all the necessary documents, including a Bill of Lading.

If you want a hands-off approach, consider hiring a white glove service like Ship a Car Direct. 

How Much to Ship a Car to Hawaii?

When you ship your car to Hawaii, you’ll have to use container shipping. Container shipping offers protection for your car since it will be shipped in its own container. Lift-on/Lift-off (LO/LO) shipping involves loading your car onto a smaller carrier using a crane. 

So how much does it cost? That depends on a few different factors, including the size of your car and the port you're shipping from. However, in general, you can expect to pay somewhere in the range of $1,500-$2,100 for boat shipping.

Shipping a Car to Hawaii 

Be sure to prepare your car for the journey and prepare yourself by knowing the price to ship a car to Hawaii. These are just a few things to keep in mind when deciding to ship your car from the mainland to Hawaii. No matter which option you choose in the end, we wish you all the best on your move to paradise! Aloha!

Filed Under: Car Shipping

Navigating Long Distance Car Transport: Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Move

March 23, 2023 by asawyer

Moving across the country can be stressful. One of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to get your vehicle from point A to point B. 

Driving a car long distances isn’t feasible for everyone, or maybe you just don’t feel like driving it yourself. Both are two great reasons why so many people are turning to car transport services for long distances. 

But, how do you make sure you get the best car transport long-distance service when you’re entrusting your vehicle to someone else? Here’s what you need to know about navigating long-distance car transport. 

Research Companies and Get Quotes 

The first thing you should do before selecting a company is to research them thoroughly. Look up customer testimonials or reviews online and read up on the company’s experience in the industry and their history of success. 

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, request quotes from each company. Compare quotes before making a final decision and keep an eye out for any hidden fees that might come up along the way. 

Or, you can hire a company (like Ship a Car Direct, hint hint) to do all of the legwork for you. 

Know How Much It Costs To Ship A Car 

The cost of shipping your car depends on several factors, including the size and weight of your vehicle, where you’re moving from and to, and what kind of transport service you choose. 

Enclosed trailers are more secure than open trailers, but they will cost more money. On average, it costs anywhere from $600-$2,000+ to ship a car. For a clearer price range, you can check out our Instant Car Shipping Cost Calculator that can give you a fair estimate of what to expect. 

Knowing roughly how much it will cost will help you from getting taken advantage of by less-than-reputable companies.

Choose Enclosed or Open Shipping 

You also have to decide whether you want enclosed shipping or open shipping for your vehicle. 

If you have something that needs extra protection, like an antique vehicle or a luxury model, then enclosed shipping might be right for you—but it will cost more than open shipping. 

Open auto transport carriers have more space available and they can often accommodate multiple vehicles at once, so they are much cheaper than enclosed carriers. 

Hire A Trustworthy Company Like Ship a Car Direct To Take Care Of Everything 

When it comes to long-distance car transport, you want to work with a trustworthy and experienced company that will handle all the details for you. 

Ship a Car Direct is one such company that takes care of everything for you. We vet all the trusted partners we work with and guarantee a damage-free trip. With us, you don’t have to worry about anything. We also offer competitive rates so you can get an estimate before committing to anything. 

Be Sure To Prepare Your Vehicle For Transportation 

Before scheduling your car for transport, take time to prepare it for its journey. This includes getting all necessary paperwork in order (title or registration), gathering any spare keys or remotes associated with your vehicle, removing any personal items from the interior and trunk, checking all fluid levels (oil, coolant, etc.), disabling any alarms or tracking devices if applicable, and making sure tires are properly inflated.

Doing these simple steps before shipping your car will ensure that nothing goes wrong during transit.  

You’re All Set for Long-distance Car Shipping

Navigating long-distance car transportation doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive—as long as you know what to expect! 

With these tips and tricks in mind and a trusted company like Ship a Car Direct by your side, moving your car across the country can actually be quite easy and stress-free. 

So take some time now to do research and gather information about how much it will cost and what kind of services are available in order to make sure that your long-distance car hauling is as smooth as possible! 

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

Filed Under: Car Shipping, Auto Shipping, Car Carriers, Car Transport

How Long Does it Take to Ship a Car and What to Expect

March 20, 2023 by asawyer

Have you ever wondered how long it takes for a car to ship? Whether you’re buying a new car or shipping an old one, understanding the timeline for delivery is important. 

In this blog post, we’ll give you an idea of how long it takes to ship a car. We will discuss the expected timeframe for shipping a car 2000 miles and 500 miles, why new cars take so long to ship, and how to prepare your car for transport. 

How Long Does it Take to Ship a Car?

The answer depends on many factors, like pick-up location, drop-off destination, who your carrier is, and how far you’re shipping your car. We’ll tell you how long it takes to ship a car 500 miles and 2000 miles, so you have a frame of reference. 

How Long Does it Take to Ship a Car 500 Miles?

Generally speaking, you can expect your vehicle to arrive within 1-2 days of pickup by the carrier.  This can vary depending on many factors like pick-up location, drop-off location, type of carrier used (enclosed vs open), and any delays that may occur along the way.

The best thing to do is contact your carrier directly and get an estimated delivery time. 

How Long Does it Take to Ship a Car 2000 Miles? 

On average, it typically takes 2-7 days for a car to travel 2000 miles. This can vary depending on many factors, so make sure you contact the carrier in advance for an estimated arrival time. Again, contact your carrier to get an accurate timeline estimate. 

Why Do New Cars Take So Long To Ship? 

New cars take longer because they have not yet been released from the manufacturer’s lot. These vehicles are often held at terminals until there are enough orders from dealerships in order for them all to be sent at once in order to keep costs down and avoid unnecessary trips back and forth between two locations. 

Manufacturers’ lots can sometimes experience delays due to weather or mechanical issues with transport vehicles that may cause further delays in shipment times. 

How Do I Prepare My Vehicle for Shipping? 

Before scheduling pickup with your carrier, there are several things you should do in order to ensure your vehicle is ready for transport: Remove all personal belongings; check fluid levels; check tire pressure; disable alarms/security systems; take pictures of any pre-existing damage; watch out for “red flags” when selecting a carrier (make sure they are licensed and insured); inspect the vehicle upon delivery; document any damages upon delivery (including pictures). 

What to Expect 

When you hire a company like ours, Ship A Car Direct, we will take care of all the details and grunt work for you. You can expect a white glove service, as we have the industry’s most trusted and heavily vetted list of car carriers, all backed by our Damage Free Guarantee.

Reach Out to Ship A Car Direct 

Shipping a car can be overwhelming if you don't know what to expect or how long it'll take. The estimates in this post can vary based on several factors. The answer to how long it takes to ship a car depends on factors like pick-up location, drop-off destination, who your carrier is, and so on. New cars, for example, often take longer because they have not yet been released from their manufacturer's lot. 

Don’t get overwhelmed in the minutia. We can answer your questions. Get in touch with Ship A Car Direct for more information on how long it takes to ship a car.

Filed Under: Car Shipping

Transporting Your Car to Another State: A Step-by-Step Guide to Auto Shipping

March 19, 2023 by asawyer

A truck transports a car to another state

Are you planning to transport your car to another state? If so, it’s essential to understand the process of auto shipping and the steps that must be taken in order to ensure a successful and stress-free move. When you know how to transport a vehicle to another state, you’re much better equipped to take care of the process yourself.

Fortunately, you can rely on an experienced car transport service like Ship a Car Direct to facilitate the entire process and guarantee a damage-free experience. Keep reading for our step-by-step guide to auto shipping! 

Obtain Quotes & Choose Your Provider 

Before you start, it’s important to obtain quotes from different car transport companies so that you can compare prices and services. There are many things that can affect your quote, most notably the distance covered and the size/weight of your vehicle. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1500 for car shipping to another state. 

You should also research customer reviews and safety records so that you can choose the most reliable provider. Make sure to do your research here, as there are many carriers who cannot guarantee your car’s safety and who will happily take your money without any concern for the actual transport of your car to another state. 

If you do not have the time, energy, or desire to obtain quotes and choose a provider, Ship a Car Direct is happy to do the work for you. We can guarantee damage-free transport because we have thoroughly vetted and can trust our partners. 

Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping

Prior to transportation, there are certain measures that must be taken in order for your vehicle to be ready for shipping. These include removing all personal items from the interior of the car, ensuring your tires are inflated, and disabling any anti-theft devices or alarms. 

Sometimes, people will fill their cars with personal items. You can do this, however, it is best not to include anything of value or anything delicate. Keep in mind that the weight will affect the cost of shipping your vehicle to another state.

What to do on Transport Day

On the day of transport, it is important to note any pre-existing damage on your vehicle before signing off on paperwork with your car transporter driver when they arrive to your home. You will want to take photos of any existing damage as extra protection against possible claims in case additional damages occur during transit. You can use our free Damage Protection App (available for iOs and Android users) to easily document the condition of your car before and after it ships. 

Consider Ship a Car Direct 

By following these simple steps for auto shipping – obtaining quotes, choosing your provider, preparing your vehicle, and noting pre-existing damage on transport day – you can rest assured knowing that your vehicle will arrive at its destination safely and free from any new damages! 

With Ship a Car Direct's white glove service and Damage Free Guarantee, the transport of your vehicle to another state has never been easier or more secure! 

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

Filed Under: Car Transport, Auto Shipping, Car Shipping

What You Should Know Before Considering Using an Auto Shipping Company for Your Car

April 28, 2022 by asawyer

If you are in need of transporting a vehicle across the country, you may be considering hiring a professional auto shipping company. This is a safe, efficient, and hassle-free method for getting your car from point A to point B. However, before handing over your keys, you need to carefully consider the company you are working with and understand what determines the cost of shipment. You also need to understand all of your shipping options as well as how the entire process works. Read on to learn more about the car shipping process so you can be sure your vehicle arrives safely and on time to its destination. 

How Much Does it Cost?

One of the first things people want to know before using a shipping company is how much it will cost. The truth is, there are a number of factors that will determine the actual cost of shipment. Some of these factors include the size of your vehicle, the distance of shipment, open or enclosed transport, location of pick-up and drop-off, time of year, and fuel prices. The best way to get an idea of cost is to shop around and ask for quotes based on your specific needs. 

You Need to Do Your Homework

Your car is a valuable asset so you don’t want to just hand it over to anybody. You need to do plenty of research to find a car shipping company that is reputable and reliable. For starters you need to make sure that the shipping company has the proper licensing, registration, and insurance. You also need to spend time reading reviews and checking the company’s safety record using the safer.fmcsa.dot.gov website. Finally, check with the Better Business Bureau as an added precaution to be sure you are dealing with a legitimate car shipping company. 

Never Base Your Decision on Price Alone

While it’s certainly understandable to want a good deal, it’s also important to remember that cheapest isn’t always the best. If a deal seems too good to be true, chances are you should follow your gut. You want to choose a company that offers competitive prices, but also provides excellent customer service and has a good track record. 

Open vs. Enclosed Transport

You will have two options when it comes to shipping your vehicle- open or enclosed transport. Open transport is the cheapest and most common method of shipment and it involves your vehicle being shipped on an open carrier. Keep in mind that your car is susceptible to the outdoor elements with open transport. If you are shipping a luxury, antique, or exotic car, you might need additional protection in which you could choose enclosed transport. Though this is a more expensive option, it provides maximum protection for your high end or classic cars. 

You Will Need to Prep Your Vehicle

There’s more to car shipping than simply handing over the keys. There are a few things you need to do in order to prep your vehicle for shipment. You will need to wash the exterior and document and dings, dents, or scratches. You will also need to top off all fluids and make sure there is no more ¼ tank of gas. You need to check the battery and tire pressure and take care of any mechanical issues. Finally, you need to remove all exterior accessories as well as any personal items from inside the vehicle. 

Understand that Delivery Dates are Not Guaranteed

It is nearly impossible to guarantee a delivery date with auto shipment. That’s because there are a number of variables that can impact shipment such as weather, traffic jams, road closures, or mechanical issues with the carrier. Remember to be flexible with shipping dates. 

Filed Under: Car Transport, Auto Shipping, Car Carriers, Car News, Car Shipping

Ready to Ship Your Car? How to Prepare a Vehicle for Shipping

April 23, 2022 by asawyer

You have done your research and found a reputable shipping company to transport your vehicle. Now, it’s time to make sure your vehicle is prepped and ready to go. You may not know that shipping a car involves more than just dropping it off and picking it up. There are certain things you need to do to make sure your vehicle is ready for shipment. Follow these steps to properly prep your vehicle for safe, secure shipment. 

Wash the Exterior

This may seem counterintuitive, given that your car will likely get dirty during transport, but it is a very important step in the preparation of your vehicle. A spotless exterior is necessary so you can easily see any scratches, dents, dings, or discoloration on your vehicle. Since dirt and dust can hide these marks, it is important that your car is clean for your visual inspection. 

Complete a Visual Inspection

Now that your car is clean, you can inspect it for any existing damage. Walk around your vehicle and make note of any scratches, dents, dings, paint marks, or any other damage. You should also take photographs of your vehicle to serve as proof of its condition prior to shipment. Though it is unlikely that your vehicle will get damaged during transport, you will still need a record of your vehicle's condition so you can note any new damage. 

Take Care of Any Necessary Maintenance

Before having your car shipped, you should take care of a few general maintenance tasks. These include:

  • Checking the fluids in your vehicle (brake, coolant, oil, power steering fluid, washer)
  • Check the battery to make sure it is fully charged
  • Check for proper tire pressure
  • Empty the gas tank to no more than ¼ full

Remove Exterior Accessories

You will want to remove any exterior accessories prior to shipment. This includes all removable parts such as bike racks, luggage racks, ski racks, retractable antennas or custom spoilers. These extras are more susceptible to damage so protect your car and your expensive accessories by removing them before shipment. 

Remove Personal Items

It is not recommended to pack items in your car when shipping it. Not only does this add weight to your car which could result in higher fees, but it also increases your risk of theft. For these reasons, most auto transport companies prohibit customers from shipping personal belongings inside their vehicle. Remove all personal items including charging cables, water bottles, GPS devices, sunglasses, personal paperwork, coins, any other junk.

Filed Under: Auto Shipping, Car Shipping, Car Transport, Vehicle Shipping

How a Car Shipping Broker Can Save Money vs. Traditional Car Shippers

April 13, 2022 by asawyer

When looking for car shipping services, you will find that you can choose to book with a broker or a carrier. A traditional carrier deals with their own trucks and will send one of them to pick up and deliver your vehicle. A broker, on the other hand, is responsible for helping customers find and coordinate shipping services. Carriers don’t have time to spend dealing with customer service, so they rely on brokers to help do that part for them. Not only can car shipping brokers simplify the auto shipping process, but they can save you money as well. Here are a few reasons why you should consider working with a broker if you want to reduce costs. 

More Options

As stated before, carriers only deal with their own personal fleet of trucks. This means they have to schedule pick up and delivery around their specific schedule. If they don’t have a truck in your area, you could be waiting quite a while for shipping, not to mention it could cost you more since they will have to send a truck to pick up your vehicle. Brokers, on the other hand, work with tens of thousands of carriers, so they can easily find a truck in your area. Not only does this expedite the shipping process, but it saves you money because the truck is already in or near your area. 

Multiple Quotes

Since they work with so many different carriers, brokers are able to collect multiple quotes from multiple carriers in a short amount of time. Access to such a large number of carriers means you have the ability to compare prices and find the lowest quote. Keep in mind, however, that these initial quotes might be lower than the actual price. Be sure to provide as much information about your shipment as possible and ask the right questions in order to get the most accurate quote. 

Flexibility 

There is always the possibility that a carrier will break down or experience mechanical problems during transport. If you are working with a traditional carrier, you have to wait for them to send another truck, which could mean longer delays for you and additional costs. Brokers, on the other hand, can quickly make arrangements for your car to be picked up by another carrier close by which translates to faster delivery times and lower costs. 

Filed Under: Car Carriers, Car News, Car Shipping, Car Transport

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