Car Shipping Costs Calculator | SAKAEM Logistics

The average cost of shipping a car in the USA is between $600 and $1500. However, the price can vary significantly depending on the size of the vehicle, the distance it needs to be shipped, and the shipping method you choose.

  If you’re planning on shipping your car, it’s important to understand the associated cost of shipping a vehicle. This way, you can make an informed decision about which shipping method is right for you.

  One way to estimate your car shipping costs is by using a car shipping costs calculator. This tool considers all the relevant factors that impact shipping costs, including the size of your car and the distance it needs to be shipped. With this information, the calculator can provide you with a personalized quote for your specific situation.

  In this blog, we define car shipping and its types, the working shipping cost calculator, its benefits, the ways to compare costs, and a few useful tips to hire the right company for your auto transportation needs.

What Is Car Shipping? 

When you hear “car shipping,” you might automatically think of big rigs carrying multiple vehicles simultaneously. But car shipping also refers to transporting a single vehicle from one location to another – usually over long distances. People use car shipping services for various reasons, but the most common is probably when they’re moving to a new city or state (or even country). Shipping their car rather than driving it themselves allows them to avoid putting unnecessary miles on the vehicle, and it can also be less stressful than making the long drive alone.

Of course, car shipping isn’t free – it typically costs several hundred dollars to have a vehicle shipped cross-country. But for many, the cost is worth it to avoid all the hassle and wear-and-tear that comes with driving long distances. Plus, if you’re moving somewhere that’s not easily accessible by road (say, an island), then shipping your car is your only option!

What Are The Different Types Of Car Shipping Services That Impact The Cost?

When it comes to car shipping, there are a few different ways to get your vehicle from one state to another. Depending on your needs, budget, and timeframe, one method may be better suited for you than the other. Here is a quick overview of the most common types of car shipping services and examples of how they can impact the overall cost to ship a car.

Open-air transport

It is the simplest and most economical method of car shipping, and the vehicle is loaded onto an open trailer and transported to its destination. However, this type of shipping offers little protection from the elements, so it is not ideal for high-value or luxury vehicles.

Enclosed transport

It provides more protection for the shipped vehicle but is typically more expensive than open-air transport. The car is loaded into an enclosed trailer that shields it from the wind, rain, snow, and sun. This type of transport is ideal for luxury vehicles or those that need to be shipped long distances.

Express shipping

It is a faster method of transportation that can get your vehicle to its destination in little time. This service is significantly more expensive than regular car shipping but may be worth it if you need your vehicle urgently.

Door-to-door shipping 

It is a convenient option that delivers the vehicle to your door (or wherever else you specify). This door to door service eliminates the hassle of picking up your car from a terminal or drop-off point, but it often comes at a premium price tag.

Cross Border Shipping

If you need to ship your car from the United States to Mexico or Canada, auto transport companies like SAKAEM can help. We use carriers experienced with cross-border shipping, so we can ensure that your vehicle will enter the new country without any problems.

Shipping Cost Estimate: How Do They Do It!

There are various ways to calculate the cost of shipping a car from point A to point B. The most important factor that affects your car shipping cost estimate is the distance between the two points. Other factors include; the type of vehicle, the weight of the car, and the mode of transport (e.g., ground, air, or water). But before you learn about these cost determinants, here are some of the most common ways that transport companies use to determine the cost: 

1. Fuel surcharge

This considers the current fuel price and the average number of miles per gallon a particular vehicle gets. Based on these two factors, you can determine a fuel surcharge rate. This rate is then applied to the total cost of shipping the car. 

2. Hourly rate: 

This rate is based on the time it will take to ship the car and any additional services it may require (e.g., loading and unloading). 

3. Cost calculator: 

The car shipping costs calculator considers all relevant factors such as route, vehicle type, and vehicle condition. 

Factors That Can Affect The Auto Transportation Cost

Two categories of factors impact the overall cost; expected and unexpected. Let’s first begin with the expected ones: 

• The type of vehicle: A standard sedan will cost less to ship than a Hummer or SUV. 
• The point of pick-up and delivery: If it is going across the country, it will be more expensive than if it were just going across town.
• The time frame: If you need the vehicle overnight, that will be more costly than if you book a week in advance. 
• The condition of the vehicle: If your car is inoperable and must be towed, that will add to the fee.
• Season: Shipping companies are often busiest during the summer when people are more likely to move or take vacations. This increased demand can drive up prices.

Unexpected Factors

A few other factors can impact the final cost of shipping a car. Rescheduling too many times, for example, can result in additional fees. Similarly, if there is a natural disaster along the route, this can also impact the cost and delivery time. It’s generally advisable to make minor auto repairs before shipping a car – otherwise, it may incur additional charges.

What Is A Car Shipping Cost Calculator, And How Does It Work?

A car shipping costs calculator is a tool that helps estimate the cost of shipping a car. The calculator considers the car’s make and model, the distance to be sent, and any special shipping requirements.To use one effectively, you’ll need to input information about your vehicle and your desired shipment. Here are the steps to follow:

Step#1: The first piece of information you’ll need is the pick-up and destination location, and this will help the calculator determine which route your car will need to take and what distance it will be traveling.

Step#2: Next, you’ll need to select your preferred method of transportation. Two main options for shipping a car are open car shipping and enclosed car shipping. Each option has pros and cons; open carrier transport is affordable but less safe than enclosed, whereas enclosed auto transport is expensive but worth its cost.

Step#3: Finally, you’ll need to provide basic information about your vehicle, such as the year, make, model, and condition. This is necessary to give an accurate estimate of the shipping costs.

Step#4: Once you have all the required information entered into the calculator, hit the “Calculate” button and receive an estimated price for shipping your car!

Tips To Make The Most Out Of Shipping Cost Calculator

• Make sure you have your destination, and pick-up location entered correctly. This will ensure that you get an accurate quote.
• Indicate whether you would prefer open or enclosed transport for your vehicle. Open carrier transport is typically less expensive, but enclosed transport offers more protection from the elements.
• Be sure to select the correct year, make, and model of your vehicle. This information is necessary for getting an accurate quote.
• Be honest about the condition of your vehicle. If it is not in running condition, this will impact the shipping price.
• Choose a preferred pick-up date that works with your schedule. Remember that most car shipping companies require at least 2 days’ notice before pick up.

What Are The Benefits Of Using The Car Shipping Cost Calculator?

There are many benefits to using a calculator to determine the cost to ship a car. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it can help you save money on car shipping costs. By inputting a few simple pieces of information, you can estimate how much it will cost to ship your car. This can be very helpful in budgeting for your move.

 This tool can be very valuable if you are considering hiring a professional car shipping company. You can easily see how different companies stack up in terms of price and services offered, and this information can help you make an informed decision about which company to hire. The calculator also provides an estimate for both door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal shipping options, which can help you pick the right choice. And last but not the least; the calculator is quick and easy to use so that you can get a shipping estimate in just a few minutes!

How To Save Money On Car Shipping Costs?

If you are planning to move your car across or within the country, there are a few things you can do to minimize the cost to ship a car. 

Shop around for quotes from different companies. Be sure to compare apples to apples by getting quotes for the same type of service with the same shipping company.

•  Choose the right time of year to ship your car. Due to peak demand, car shipping costs are typically higher in the summer months. You may be able to get a better rate if you ship during off-peak times like winter or early spring. 
• Ship your car from a major metropolitan area. Because shipping costs are based on supply and demand, it’s best to ship from a major metro area where plenty of carriers compete for business if you’re looking to save money.
• Ship your car with insurance. Make sure your vehicle is insured during transport in case of any accidents or damage that may occur.

How To Find The Best Car Shipping Company For Your Needs?

Here are tips to help you choose the reliable auto transport company that can ensure safe yet affordable delivery options and a the same time provides you with the most competitive car shipping cost estimate:

• Consider your budget: Car shipping companies vary in price, so don’t be afraid to ask around or compare prices online.
• Choose a reputable company: Look for companies with high customer satisfaction ratings and reviews from other customers.
• Get a quote tailored to your needs: This will help you understand the cost of shipping and the time frame of the process.
• Choose a carrier that can accommodate your vehicle: Carriers specializing in heavy or large vehicles may be better suited for those vehicles than carriers that only transport smaller cars.
• Ask family and friends:  Most people know someone who has used a car shipping company before, so ask them for recommendations.
• BBB Rating: Check with the BBB rating of the company you are considering. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a great resource for finding quality companies and services.

What Can You Expect When Shipping Your Car With SAKAEM?

When you choose to ship your car with SAKAEM, you can expect a stress-free and seamless process from start to finish. We will work with you to determine the best shipping route and schedule for your car, and we will provide full tracking throughout the journey so that you can always know where your vehicle is and when it will arrive. We take care of all the paperwork and logistics so that you can relax and focus on other things or sit back and relax.

At SAKAEM, we pride ourselves on our customer service and ability to ship cars quickly and safely. We have years of industry experience and have shipped thousands of vehicles over long distances. You can trust us to get your car where it needs to go, on time and in one piece. 

Contact us today for a free quote or to learn more about our services.

Documents You Need To Ship Your Vehicle 

• Bill of lading: It acts as a contract between you and the shipping company. It outlines the terms of the shipment, including the price and any special instructions. Make sure to keep a copy for your records.
• Insurance terms and conditions: Shipping companies typically require you to purchase vehicle insurance during transport. These terms and conditions will outline what is covered in case of an accident or other damage. Be sure to read over them carefully before signing anything.
• Lienholder authorization: If you have a loan on your vehicle, the lender must permit the car to be shipped. You can usually obtain this authorization by contacting them directly or through the shipping company.
• Absent owner authorization: If you are not present when your vehicle is shipped, you’ll need to permit someone else to sign all necessary paperwork on your behalf. You can usually do this with a simple letter authorizing the shipper to act on your behalf.
•  Title and registration: You’ll need to provide proof that you own the vehicle being shipped, usually in the form of valid identification and registration documents. The shipping company may also require additional documentation such as a driver’s license or ID card for verification purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

My shipping quote is too high. How can I find a better deal?

Weight, distance, and urgency are all major determinants of how much you’ll pay to have something delivered. If you’re looking for a better deal on shipping, contact us to get the most attractive deals based on your unique needs.

How many days in advance do I need to call an auto transport company?

The answer depends on a few factors, for example, the time of year. During the spring and summer months, there are more people transporting their vehicles. This means that companies are often booked solid for several weeks in advance. If you have a specific date in mind for your transport, it’s best to call at least 3-4 weeks ahead of time.

What are the various payment options available?

You have the option to pay with a personal check, cashier’s check, postal money order, or major credit card. Know that, you need to provide a signature for credit card payment.

Can I Ship My Inoperable Car?

If you have an inoperable car that you need to ship, rest assured that we can do it for you. However, it will come at an additional cost since the car will need to be shipped on a flatbed truck since inoperable cars cannot drive up onto the loading ramp of a standard carrier. 

Is your vehicle insured during transit?

Yes, most companies like SAKAEM provide insurance coverage to your vehicle during transit. They will typically have their own insurance policy that will cover any damages that may occur to your vehicle while it is in their care.

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