Shipping of automobiles is increasingly a renowned practice nowadays, especially for people moving into another state, buying from a distance, or for snowbirds fond of relocating every season.
Nevertheless, many people have little or no knowledge about car shipping. The most important thing to consider is the most suitable method to ship your car. Generally, there are two main shipping options you may want to consider, namely, open car shipping and enclosed car shipping.
This article is written to enlighten you on what open car shipping and closed car shipping are. It additionally gives you some tips on things to know before transporting your car using closed carriers.
Open Car Shipping
In open car shipping, cars are strapped and packed in carriers, which helps reduce vibrations and motion during transportation. However, they are often exposed to weather conditions and other elements during transportation. Such elements and weather conditions include rain, snow, sun, dust, birds, debris, etc.
Exposure of cars to these elements mentioned earlier, and many others make open car shipping less secure than closed car shipping. It is, however, the most common car shipping method because of its affordability and fast delivery.
Despite moving up to 10 cars at a time, it is a faster shipping method. It is so because many companies are into this type of method hence making a schedule with one easier.
Closed Car Shipping
Closed car shipping is directly the opposite of the open car shipping method. Here, cars are transported in an enclosed space to protect them from weather and other elements. Although it is expensive and may deliver slower than open car shipping, it is the best method to transport expensive model cars or cars with low ground clearance.
In many cases, you are offered frequent updates in the course of transportation and adequate insurance protection.
Things To Know Before Using Closed Carriers; Type Of Car
It is crucial to ascertain whether the closed carrier is suitable for the car you want to ship before using one. It is cost-effective to ship smaller cars in closed carriers as they weigh less; therefore, the affordable amount is charged.
Luxury, expensive, antiques, exotic, custom, and sports cars are often transported via closed car shipping. It offers the delivery of the car in the same conditions it was picked up. Also, for cars with low ground clearance, it is advisable to ship with closed carriers to prevent scratching if loaded by a ramp.
The type of car you want to ship must be considered. Say you want to ship your 1967 Chevy Corvette to a new destination, then enclosed shipping is your best bet. On the other hand, a standard car such as a 2020 Mitsubishi Mirage ES can get enough protection with open car shipping.
Apart from the protection from weather and flying debris that enclosed shipping offers, your expensive car is also not seen by potential thieves, thereby ensuring safe delivery.
Cost Of Shipping
Before signing on with a carrier, you must know how much it will cost you from the pickup spot to where it is delivered. You must understand that companies that charge costs cheaply may not be an ideal shipping company for you; don’t be tempted when you have to pay less.
As much as you need to ship within your budget, it would be best if you considered the quality of services your potential shipping company would offer you. Be sure that your car is in safe hands, even if it has to cost you a little extra. Trust me; you would not want any damage or loss of your car during transit.
Generally, be informed about how much it will cost to ship your car and the shipping company’s services. Enclosed car shipping is usually expensive but varies from company to company and seasonally. Make an appointment with a company with a known current price to avoid regrets later on.
Prepare For Change In Schedule
Understand that shipping a car involves big logistical tasks and can be overwhelming. Check it out in this manner: auto transport trailers before and after picking up your vehicle usually do a lot of picking up and dropping off, loading and unloading at least 6 cars.
Even if you ship with a company with the best logistical team, you must know that there are several variables during transit. Accidents on the road, weather conditions, breaking down of auto transport trailers, and other unexpected circumstances beyond the control of shipping companies may delay your car delivery.
Furthermore, delays may occur when your car is dropped off late, compounding other delays. Consider the distance your car needs to be shipped; the more the distance, the more the chances of the schedule change.
To prepare for the schedule change to get your car on or before the time you need it, book early. Prepare for the unforeseen delays by having your car shipped on time and delivered within the range of time it is needed.
Do Your Homework On Shipping Companies
The most important thing to know about before shipping your car using closed carriers is the shipping company. You want your car delivered fast and safely at an affordable price.
Ship with a reputable company with an excellent logistical team to avoid delays. Gather reviews from past customers, highlighting the quality services of such a company. Check out for the ease enjoyed by car owners, time consciousness, and professionalism.
Ship your car with a company with good customer service rather than a non-responsive one. In addition, employ the service of a company with the best deal for their price, as it is essential to hold every dollar you spend accountable.
Getting Your Car Shipped Using Closed Carriers
At this juncture, if you had read with rapt attention, you must be familiar with the most important things to know before shipping your car.
Have your luxury car shipped in closed carriers efficiently once you have considered the above-explained factors and enjoy the best shipping experience.