A cross-country move could add 3,500 miles to your car’s odometer. The wear and tear that would put on your car would not be worth it.
When transporting a car a long distance, there are better options than driving. Read on to learn about cross-country auto transport.
Find a Cross-Country Vehicle Transport Service
When planning how to transport a car, look into the best auto transport companies.
This is the safest option for the car because these companies have the experience and equipment to get any car to the destination unharmed.
There are various things you’ll need to consider.
For one thing, do you need door-to-door service? This means that the transport company picks up your car from your address and drop it off at the new address. This is the least work for you, but it will cost you more.
Your other option is to drop your car off at the nearest transport location. Your transport company will do their best to get your car to you on time. Yet, it is possible that your car will need to sit and wait until they have a full truck ready to go.
Choose Between Open or Enclosed Transportation
The next choice you need to make is between an open or an enclosed carrier.
Open carriers are the most common method for cross-country auto transport. You’ve likely seen these carriers on the freeway with you. They are two-story metal ramps that can fit around seven cars.
This is a cost-effective way to transport a car. Yet, your car is exposed to the elements as well as debris from other cars such as rocks.
You can pay a little extra to go on the top rack of the transport. This gives you extra protection from road debris.
An enclosed trailer allows your car to travel in a secured trailer that is protected from all exterior conditions. It is a more expensive option. But it guarantees that your car will arrive in the pristine condition you left it in.
Get Your Vehicle Ready
Once you have your cross-country auto transport company and method picked out, all you have to do is get your car ready.
First, remove all your personal belongings. This includes everything in the trunk and glove compartment. Car carriers aren’t liable for your personal items during transport, so it’s wise to take it all out.
Next, give your car a good wash and buff. Inspect it for any scratches, dings, and dents.
Take pictures and document anything you find. That way, you can compare your car at delivery to ensure it is in the same condition.
It’s also a good idea to check the main 3 fluid levels, inspect the tires and so on. This will make loading and unloading much simpler.
Make sure you only leave a quarter tank of fuel in your car. This will reduce the weight of your car significantly.
You might be surprised that a full tank of gas could add an extra 95 pounds of weight. If all the cars were full, that would cause the transport carrier to become overweight.
Final Thoughts on Transporting a Car
Finally, check the research, to ensure the chosen transport company is positively reviewed and in good standing. Document your requirements so the same information can be given to several companies. Check for approximate costs so you know the ballpark cost and then request quotes from at least 2 or three companies.
Thanks for reading. Now you know all the steps for transporting a car to your new city.
Before you go, check out the top 3 DIY videos for increasing the life of your car.
