Shipping a car is much more cost-effective than driving, but sometimes it may not fit in your budget. Finding the cheapest way to ship a car is important when you have a tight budget, and you need to transport your car to a distant place. In this article, you will learn about some tips and methods to reduce the cost to make transportation cheaper.
What is the Cheapest Way to Ship a Car?
Many customers don’t want to pay a lot of money for just transporting their vehicle. The auto shipping services are provided according to customer demands, and chap car shipping is one of them. Some of the Cheapest Ways to Ship a Car are mentioned here.
1. Open Car Shipping
This is the cheapest and most common of all. Your vehicle will be arranged with others in an open trailer. Although this leaves your car exposed to the elements, it’s much less expensive than enclosed transport.
2. Enclosed Transport
The car to be transported in the closed transport is an expensive or antique type of car. They will be receiving maximum protection, but the cost is quite on the higher side. And if your car is not worth much, then you can choose open transport for a cost cut.
3. Terminal to Terminal Shipping
This is another cheaper service than door to door shipping. Your car gets delivered to the nominated terminals instead of getting it on your doorstep. You are expected to go to the terminal to collect and drop your vehicle.
4. Door to door shipping
This is the most convenient of them all. The vehicle gets picked up and delivered directly to customers’ doorsteps. You do not have to go somewhere else or to a terminal to get your car transported. Door to door shipping is far more convenient than shipping between terminals, though the cost is high.
Tips to Save Money While Shipping a Car
When you are shipping a car, there are a lot of factors that you need to look for to reduce the cost. Understanding your needs and collecting car shipping quotes may help you get a precise cost. Some factors and tips are mentioned here to help you reduce the shipping cost.
Compare Quotes
As much as possible, look online for cost comparison tools that will provide cost assessments. The same applies to the requests for multiple car shipping quotes. To get a quote, you need to fill in details such as car makes and models, pickup and drop-off locations, and shipping dates.
Advance Booking
One of the most critical cost drivers for shipping services is the timing. The carriers would want advanced booking. Most of them charge less for advance bookings. If possible, try to book ahead of time, at least two weeks or three weeks before your desired pickup date.
Flexibility in Date
Shipping cost depends upon the season and demand. Try not to use peak seasons like summers and holidays, as prices become really costlier. Being flexible with pickup and delivery dates may also help in getting better rates.
Choose the Right Carrier
Do the research on your carriers, read customers’ reviews, and look for a price that is reliable and cost-effective. Also, select a company that specializes in car shipping and has a clean record. A lower price quote may not be worth the money if the service of the company is bad or they cause damage to cars.
Discounts
Car shipping companies often offer discounts on shipping cars to help save even more money. Ask for the discount offer that you are eligible for. There are other discounts also:
- Military Discounts: Carriers provide discounted rates to active duty military personnel.
- Multiple Car Discounts: If you are shipping more than one vehicle, you can ask for a multiple car discount.
- Seasonal Promotions: Seek special discounts during the off season shipping months.
Condition of Your Vehicle
A broken car or a car with damaged parts will cost you so much to transport it. Some shipping firms charge extra on non running cars due to their transportation method. Ensure you tune your car well before shipping to avoid extra charges.
Review the Contract
Review the contract carefully before finalizing your shipment. You will need to know the terms and conditions for shipment to find the hidden fees that might influence your ultimate cost. Know if you have time to have your car delivered or if insurance is included in the shipment.
Conclusion
If you find a car, shipping is out of your budget. You can find the cheapest way to ship a car by researching shipping methods, comparing quotes, and being flexible with your plans. Thus, you will pay less and ensure it arrives safely. Choosing a reliable carrier will get you on the path to a low-priced car shipping experience.
