Every movement across the country is stressful. It requires a lot of planning. Otherwise, it will turn into messy chaos. Among all the legwork, moving a car is the most difficult one. You need to find a trusted shipping company that offers safe and quick transportation of a car. Save time by choosing a reliable car transport company, like Revoway, and avoid frustration and extra miles.
This article is your complete guide to preparing for getting ready and picking a shipping company that offers peace of mind.
1. Decide Between Open vs. Enclosed Transport
There are two types of transport in general: open and enclosed. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the difference. It helps you choose the best option for your budget and vehicle type.
Open Transport
This type is the most common and far more affordable compared to the enclosed transport. The reason is, it uses open trailers to move cars, and ships comparatively more cars at a time. So open car transport is an ideal choice to ship standard cars, SUVs, and daily drivers.
Enclosed Transport
This type is common for shipping classic, luxury cars, which need an additional layer of protection. Enclosed trailers are fully covered, so the car transport is inside a trailer, with no issue with external elements. With all its benefits, this type is more expensive. It’s fully justified in the case of expensive cars.
If cost is the priority, open transport is usually the best fit. For premium protection, enclosed transport is worth the investment.
2. Compare Quotes From Multiple Car Shipping Companies
Getting many quotes has a benefit; you have something to compare to. In general, prices vary depending on distance, season, carrier type, and vehicle size. However, check all the information about the services. Whether they provide:
- Door-to-door vs. terminal service
- Insurance coverage details
- Estimated pickup/delivery windows
- Cancellation terms
- Licensing and USDOT numbers
When you have enough information, choose a company with strong customer reviews, transparent pricing, and proper accreditation. It frees you up from many issues.
3. Understand the Factors That Affect Auto Transport Costs
Shipping a car cross-country typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, but several variables influence the final price:
- Distance and route
- Vehicle size and weight
- Seasonal demand (summer and snowbird seasons cost more)
- Transport type (open vs. enclosed)
- Delivery timeframe
- Fuel prices
Knowing this ahead of time helps you budget more accurately.
4. Prepare Your Car for Shipping
Another important factor to know when you need to ship your car is how to prepare it. Proper preparation ensures a smooth loading process and protects your vehicle during the trip. Before pickup, remove all personal belongings, wash and clean the car properly to see all possible dents or damage during shipping, disable alarms, check tire pressure to avoid issues on the way, and keep the tank at about ¼ full. Also, don’t forget to take clear photos of your vehicle from all angles.
5. Know What to Expect from your delivery
When you arrange a pickup day with your carrier, you will inspect your car in their presence and complete a Bill of Lading. It’s a way to record your car’s condition when your car is loaded onto the trailer.
During shipping, a reputable company always keeps you updated, offering information via phone, text, or online portal. While timelines may shift due to weather or traffic, regular updates give you peace of mind and let you plan for arrival.
At the final stage, your car arrives; inspect the car once again and complete the delivery paperwork by signing it. If there are no issues with a car, you simply take it. If there is an issue, you don’t sign your bill of lading but claim for insurance.
8. Plan for the Best Experience
Cross-country auto transport runs more smoothly when booked early-ideally 2–3 weeks before your move. Early scheduling gives you better pricing, more transportation options, and flexible pickup windows.
Conclusion
It doesn’t have to be hard to ship an automobile across the country. By choosing the right transport type, preparing your vehicle, and working with a reliable auto shipping company, you can ensure a safe, hassle-free relocation. If you plan beforehand, your car will be waiting for you when you get to your new house. You won’t have to drive across the nation.