When you have your vehicle shipped, whether it be for a general move, to go to college, for a seasonal move as a snowbird, or for business reasons, you want to ensure that you have a quick and easy shipping journey. We handle the hard work and ensure your vehicle is ready for shipping upon arrival, but there are some helpful steps you can take before shipping to make sure your vehicle gets the perfect shipping experience. Here are all the things you need to know ahead of your auto shipping service with us!
Know the Shipping Timing
Shipping your vehicle takes time. In order for your vehicle to arrive at your destination around the same time as you, it is important to know the average shipping times and schedule the auto shipment accordingly. If your vehicle is being dropped off in the same state it is being picked up in, your shipping will take around 1-3 days. If it is being shipped around 1,000 miles, it will take around 3-5 days. For trips around 1,250 miles, it will take 4-5 days. If it is shipped around 2,000 miles, it will take 6-8 days. If it is shipped up to 3,000 miles, with will take 7-9 days. Anything above 3,000 miles is expected to take 9 days to 2 weeks to complete.
Know the Service Type You Want
When you book your service, it is important to reserve the right shipping style. We offer open and enclosed auto transportation. Our open auto transportation is less expensive and includes your vehicle shipped on an open trailer. Our enclosed auto transportation is a bit more expensive and includes your vehicle shipped on a trailer that is fully enclosed. Be sure to look into our two service types and decide which is right for you so our driver comes properly prepared!
Get Your Car Ready
Once your auto shipping is booked, before your shipping happens, be sure to get your car ready. The most important part of this is assuring your vehicle is properly loaded. We only allow for up to 100 pounds to be shipped within your vehicle. If you wish to have more in your vehicle during the shipment, you will be charged additional fees.
Additionally, there is a certain point your gas tank should be at when you ship with us. The ideal gas tank is around ¼ full. This allows plenty of gas for your driver during the loading and unloading process. But, it does not mean your vehicle is unnecessarily weighed down by a full gas tank.
Lastly, it is helpful to have a freshly washed car ahead of shipping. This makes it easier to identify any dents, scratches, or other markings during the inspection process.
Inspect Your Vehicle
The last step before your driver takes off is to inspect your vehicle with the driver. This is where having a freshly washed car comes in handy. You will want to look over your vehicle with the driver and take note of any signs of damage, such as scratches and dents, and note them on your Bill of Lading/Vehicle Condition Report. This allows you to compare the vehicle’s condition before and after shipping to note if any damage occurred while on the road.
