As we enter springtime in 2022, Americans are plagued with some of the highest gas prices we’ve ever seen. Driving hasn’t been this expensive since 2008.
But with so many people now working remotely, they are moving away from big cities like San Francisco and New York and buying homes in other states that are more affordable and more enjoyable, like Florida, Texas, and Idaho.
But a move across the country isn’t easy, nor is it cheap. Especially if you have to drive there. That’s why so many people are wondering how to ship a car to another state.
Shipping a car will save money, a lot of time, and result in a much less stressful move. Wondering how to make moving with a car easier? Keep reading below to learn more about shipping cars.
Options for Moving Your Car
If you’re moving across the country and are looking to bring your vehicle(s), you have a few options.
The most obvious is to drive it. In some ways, this simplifies the process. You just need to load up the car and start heading to your new home.
But long drives are hard to do. Sitting behind the wheel for eight or more hours a day takes a toll on your mental and physical health. And since you’ll be so tired the whole time, you risk getting in a car accident.
It’s also expensive since you need to pay for gas, lodging, restaurants, auto maintenance, and auto repairs before the trip. It’s not exactly an affordable option, plus it takes a bunch of time, often a week to cross the country.
Another option is to tow your car. If you’re driving a moving truck across the country, you might be able to hitch your car behind it. You still have all the same expenses, since you’re taking a road trip, but moving expenses will be lower if you drive the truck yourself rather than have a moving company drive it.
If you’re not attached to your car, you can sell it before your move. Then you don’t have to pay any expenses to move it. it also gives you the option to upgrade to a newer vehicle when you arrive at your destination if you’ve been eyeing a new car.
But this adds another big item to your to-do list, which isn’t ideal when moving thousands of miles away.
For most people, the best option is to have a car shipped to your new home.
Cost of Shipping a Car
At a glance, shipping a car might seem the most expensive. Wondering how much to ship a car? If you’re going 2,000 miles, you might expect to spend around $1,200 to ship your car.
But remember, you’re saving time. That frees up an entire week since you don’t have to drive it yourself. It also prevents 2,000 miles of wear-and-tear on your vehicle, so no costly repairs.
And you also don’t need to take time off work. When taking a road trip, you pay opportunity costs, which might negate any “savings” you incur by driving.
How to Ship a Car
Wondering how to get a car shipped? It’s easier than you think. Follow these quick steps and you’ll be on your way to an easy trip.
Choose Your Moving Day
Before you reach out to providers, you need to know when you’re going to move. Prices will depend on the exact time you plan to move.
You’ll get the best deal if you plan at least a few months in advance. Don’t wait until you’re ready to move before getting a quote and locking in a price.
If you do, they likely won’t be able to do it on the date you are requesting. Booking well in advance will ensure your car arrives the exact day you need it to.
Also, if you can avoid peak shipping time (summer), you can save a lot of money as well. Spring and autumn usually offer the best rates.
Compare Shipping Quotes
There are countless companies that ship cars across the US. Some focus on certain parts of the country, such as the East Coast. Many people move from the northern states down to South Carolina and Florida, so they offer streamlined routes.
Others handle the entire country, or partner with other providers to offer a full network.
Find a few companies that offer service from your place of origin to your destination. Then get multiple quotes for your desired moving date. Each company will price the trip differently.
So fill out the instant quote form, or contact the company for a price. Compare the pricing and timeline to see which company offers the best deal. Also, read reviews to make sure you’re choosing a company with a positive reputation.
Make sure to contact Amerifrieght for a quote, as they offer some of the best deals, particularly for senior citizens. Check it out here.
Prepare Your Car
Just a few simple things to do to your car to get it ready to ship. Before the company comes to pick it up, make sure there’s 1/4 tank of gas. You don’t want more, because it weighs down the truck.
You don’t want less, because they need to operate your vehicle to get it on and off the truck.
Also, make sure your battery is charged and working well. Remove any personal items from the vehicle. And take a few photos of the car, so you can prove there weren’t any dents or scratches before shipping.
Receive Your Car
Once the company picks up your vehicle, you are done. Now, you just need to get yourself to your new home.
The car will arrive directly at your home, assuming its accessible by a car transporter. Check the car once they get it off the truck, and enjoy your new state.
A Less-Stressful Move
Now that you know how to ship a car across the country, you can plan your upcoming cross-country move. Moving is stressful, but there are a few things you can do to make the process physically and mentally easier.
Shipping your car is one of the most important.
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