Auto transport services for relocating: What to consider before hiring a transport company? 

Brantley Kendall

02 Dec 2022 2 years ago


If you’re in the process of moving, you’ve probably already realized that there’s a lot to think about. One of the many things you’ll need to take care of is getting your car from point A to point B. There are a few different ways to do this, but one of the most popular is having it transported by auto transport. This can be a great option if you’re uncomfortable driving your car long distances or need more time to do it yourself. It’s also a good choice if your vehicle is in good shape and you want to avoid damaging it further.  Auto transport service entails shipping a vehicle from one location to another. You can use this service for several reasons, such as moving to another city, state, or country, selling a car, or using it for a road trip. The most common type of auto transport service is shipping a car via a carrier. The vehicle is loaded onto a truck and transported to the destination. This service is popular among those moving to another city or state as it is the most affordable choice. When choosing an auto transport service, there are a few things to remember, including the type of transport service, the price, and the insurance coverage. Don’t worry; we have done all the hard work for you. Let’s find out the most crucial part of the auto transportation process.

Different methods to ship your vehicle domestically 

Shipping your car can be a complex process, but there are a few other methods you can choose from. The best way for you will depend on your budget, the size of your vehicle, and where you are shipping it to. Here are a few of the most common methods for shipping a car.

Open carrier auto transport

Several types of auto transport methods are available, but the most common is open carrier transport. This is where the car is transported on an open truck or trailer, exposed to the elements. While this may not be the most protective option, it is the most affordable and is a great choice for short distances.    The process of open carrier transport is straightforward. The vehicle is driven onto the trailer and secured. The trailer is then hitched to the tow truck and transported to the destination. Safety is the key consideration while transporting a vehicle on an open trailer. The driver must ensure that the car is adequately secured to the trailer. The dimensions of an open carrier trailer vary depending on the towing vehicle. However, the typical sizes are 12 feet wide and 48 feet long. Open carrier transport is the most affordable means of shipping a car. The cost of shipping a car on an open trailer ranges from $500 to $1000, depending on the distance traveled.

Enclosed vehicle shipping

Enclosed Vehicle Shipping is shipping a car or other type of vehicle inside an enclosed trailer. The trailer is sealed up so that the car is not exposed to the elements and is much less likely to get damaged in transit. There are a few reasons someone might choose to use enclosed car shipping. Perhaps they are shipping a very expensive or rare car and want to ensure that it is protected during the move. Or maybe they live in a climate where extreme weather conditions could damage the vehicle. The driver of the enclosed trailer will also take precautions to avoid accidents and protect the car during transport. These precautions include.

  • Driving slowly and carefully
  • Avoiding tight turns and sudden stops
  • Making sure the trailer is hitched to the tow vehicle properly

Pros and Cons of Open vs. Enclosed Car Transport

There are a few things to consider when choosing between open and enclosed transportation for your car.

Enclosed carrier

Pros 

  • Your car will be much safer in an enclosed trailer.
  • Enclosed trailers are better at protecting your car from the elements, which can help to keep it in better condition.
  • An enclosed trailer is a must if you are transporting a valuable or rare car.
  • Enclosed trailers are more secure, making them a better choice for transporting expensive cars or cars that contain sensitive equipment.

 Cons

  • Enclosed car transport is more expensive than open car shipping.
  • It takes longer to load and unload an enclosed trailer, meaning you will have to wait longer for your car to arrive.
  • Enclosed trailers are only sometimes available, so you may have to wait longer for your car to be transported if you choose this option.
  • Enclosed trailers are only sometimes available in all areas, so you may have to travel further to find a transport company that offers this service.

Open car transport

Pros

  • Open car transport is usually the most affordable option for shipping a vehicle.
  • It is a very safe way to transport a car and is much less likely to result in damage than enclosed transport.
  • Open car transport is excellent for large vehicles like RVs and boats.
  • It is an easy and convenient way to transport a car long-distance.
  • There is usually plenty of space for additional luggage or gear in the transport truck. 

Cons

  • There is a greater risk of your car being damaged in transit than in enclosed transport.
  • Your vehicle will be more visible to potential thieves, making you more likely to experience car theft.
  • Your vehicle will be more visible to passers-by, so you may receive more offers from people who want to buy your car.
  • There is less protection from the elements than there is with enclosed transport.

What precautions do auto transport companies take?

Auto transport companies take several precautionary steps when moving your vehicle to ensure that it arrives at its destination safely. These include:

  • Inspecting the car for any damage before loading it onto the transport truck.
  • Securing the car in place on the car with straps and tie-downs.
  • Checking the vehicle’s fluids and tire pressure before departure.
  • Monitoring the vehicle’s temperature and driving conditions during transport.
  • Delivering the car to its destination in the same condition as when it was picked up.

Tips to get auto transport quotes

Comparing quotes from several providers may help you find the best deal and ensure you’re getting the best possible service. When looking for auto transport quotes, it is crucial to keep in mind the overall cost of the move and the quality of service you can expect. There are a few things you should keep in mind when comparing quotes:

  • The total cost of the move: Some auto transport companies may charge a low price for the transport but may charge extra for fuel, tolls, or other fees. Make sure you know all the costs involved in the move before choosing a company.
  • Quality of service: Choosing a company with a good reputation for providing quality service is vital. Ask for references from past customers, and look for reviews online.
  • Insurance policy: If your vehicle is damaged during transport, you will want to be sure that the company is responsible for covering the damages.
  • Company’s shipping policy: It is essential to be aware of the company’s shipping policy before you choose them. Some companies may require that you pick up your vehicle at the delivery point, while others may offer delivery to your door. Of course, it comes at an extra cost.
  • Vehicle delivery time: Be sure to ask the company how long it will take them to deliver your vehicle. Remember to allow enough time for the move before you need the car.

 Ways to get a quote from an auto transport company

There are a few ways to request a quote from an auto transport service provider. You can call them directly, speak to a representative, fill out a form on their website, or email them. No matter which method you choose, make sure you provide as much information as possible about the shipment, including the make and model of the vehicle, the desired pickup and delivery locations, and the date you need the transport to take place.

Getting a quote through a representative 

Getting a free quote is easy and only requires a phone call to a representative. Just follow the steps below:

  • Call a representative from an auto transport company.
  • Discuss the details of your shipment.
  • Receive a free quote from the representative.
  • Compare the free quote to the quotes offered by other auto transport companies.
  • Choose the shipping company that fits your needs and budget.

Provide the representative with all the necessary information about your shipment. Such as:

  • The shipping date.
  • The pickup and delivery locations.
  • The type of vehicle.
  • The dimensions of the car.
  • The weight of the vehicle.
  • The type of transport (open or enclosed).
  • The insurance coverage.

By providing this information, you will allow the representative to provide you with an accurate quote. Remember that the final cost of transport may vary depending on the size and weight of your vehicle, the distance between the pickup and delivery locations, and the type of transport service you choose.

Using an online instant quote generator

An online quote generator is a tool that allows you to compare the prices and services of multiple car transport service providers. There are a few simple steps you can take to get an online quote:

Step 1: To use an online quote generator, you must first decide what car transport services you need. There are two vital types of car transport services:

  • Door-to-door transport: This type of transport service picks up your car from your home and delivers it to your destination.
  • Terminal-to-terminal transport: This transport service picks up your car from a designated terminal and delivers it to another terminal.

Step 2: Once you’ve decided on the type of car transport service you need, you need to enter your car’s details. For example, you may need to provide information like the car’s make, model, and year.

Step 3: Once you’ve entered your car’s details, you can get quotes from multiple car transport service providers. Simply click on the “Get Quotes” button and you are done!

Step 4: You’ll need to complete the booking process after finalizing a car transport service. This usually involves providing your contact information and payment details.

Step 5: Once you’ve booked your car transport service, you must sit back and relax. You can rest assured knowing that your car is in good hands. Enjoy your hassle-free car transport experience!

What determines the shipping cost?

The cost of transporting a vehicle in the USA is a complex and nuanced calculation that considers various factors.

  • Distance: The further a vehicle needs to be transported, the higher the cost. This is because the longer the space, the more fuel it will use and the more time the driver will spend on the road.
  • Vehicle’s weight: The heavier the car, the more fuel will be used, and the more wear and tear there will be on the transport vehicle. This can lead to higher transport costs, mainly if the car is transported long distances. 
  • Type of your vehicle: Certain cars, such as large trucks or vans, are more expensive to transport than smaller cars. This is because they take up more space on the transport vehicle and require more fuel.
  • The availability of transport routes: If there is a shortage of transport vehicles available, the cost of transportation will be higher. This is because the transport companies will be able to charge more for their services.
  • The fuel prices: When fuel prices are high, the cost of transportation will be higher. This is because the transport companies will need to charge more for their services to cover their costs.
  • Labor costs: Since the transport company needs to hire a professional driver, it adds to the cost. This is because the company needs to pay a wage to the driver and overtime pay.
  • Current demand for transport services: The cost of transportation will be higher if the demand increases. This is because the transport companies will be able to charge more for their services owing to the need of the clients.

What affects the time of shipping a vehicle?

Many factors can affect the time of shipping a vehicle. The distance of the route, the type of vehicle, and the weather conditions are just a few examples. However, by understanding these factors, you can better understand when your car will arrive at its destination.

  • The distance of the route: A longer route means that the car will have to travel further, which takes more time. Additionally, if there are any obstacles along the way such as mountains or rivers, this will also add time to the journey.
  • The type of vehicle: Larger vehicles, such as trucks and RVs, take longer to transport than smaller cars. This is because they require more truck space and often take different routes due to their size.
  • Weather conditions: Bad weather along the route, such as heavy rain or snow, can slow transportation times. Besides, extreme temperatures can cause problems for vehicles traveling over long distances.
  • The customs and border clearance process: If there are any delays in the customs process, it will delay the shipment. This is because the transport company will be able to deliver the vehicle once the customs process is completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your process for booking a shipment?

 Once you have determined the specs of your shipment (vehicle make, model, and year; pickup and delivery locations; and desired shipping dates), you can submit a free, no-obligation quote request on our website. A team member will review your request and provide a custom quote based on the specifics of your shipment. Once you have accepted the quote, we will reserve space on a truck and send you a booking confirmation.

How long does it take to ship a car? 

The transit time for a car shipment depends on the final destination. Typically, a car will take between 7 and 14 days to reach its final destination, but it can vary depending on the route and the season.

What should I do to prepare my car for transport? 

There is no prep work required for most standard car shipments. However, if you are shipping a high-value car or are transporting a vehicle that needs to be created, the shipping company may take additional steps. Our team will provide specific instructions based on the type of shipment you are booking.

How safe is it to transport my car? 

No doubt transporting a car presents some inherent risk. However, the risk is minimized by working with a reputable and experienced auto transport company. All our carriers are fully licensed and insured, and we only work with those with a proven track record of delivering cars safely and on time. 

Do you offer door-to-door shipping? 

Yes, we offer both door-to-door shipping and terminal-to-terminal shipping options.

Can I track my car during transport? 

Yes, you can track your car during transport. Most auto transport companies will provide a tracking number that you can use to see where your vehicle is at any given time.

What should I do to change my pickup or delivery location?

 If you need to change your pickup or delivery location, please contact the auto transport company as soon as possible. In most cases, we can accommodate last-minute changes, but it’s best to let us know quickly so that we can make the necessary arrangements.

What should I do if I have any other questions?

 If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the auto transport company. We’re happy to answer any questions and help you find the best transport service.

What does the price of shipping include?

 The price of shipping a car usually includes the cost of the transport truck, the driver’s salary, fuel, and insurance. Depending on the destination country, there may be additional charges for taxes and customs fees. 

The Bottom Line

Auto transport services can provide an efficient, affordable way to move your car from one location to another. Whether you are moving across the country or just across town, auto transport can save you time and hassle.

SAKAEM auto transport is a professional transport service that offers various services to its clients. The company has a wide selection of trucks and trailers that can accommodate any load. In addition, SAKAEM also has a team of experienced drivers who are familiar with the local roads and can ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and on time. Contact them today to learn more about their services and get a free quote.


Brantley Kendall