What Goes Into a Car Shipping Price Estimate?
Are you planning to ship your car and wondering the amount it will cost? You have to the right place where you will find answers to your questions. By understanding how your shipping cost is calculated, you can make smart decisions and possibly save money.
Car shipping is not just a one-size-fits-all, it involves a lot of process that needs experts, legal documentation and professionalism. Remember, the price you will be charged depends on several factors. So, getting familiar with this key important information can help you anticipate costs and choose the right auto transport service.
In this blog, US Car-Go Freight will walk you through the key factors that influence car transport costs. We will provide a breakdown of everything and give tips that will help you save money every time you want to ship your car across the United States.
Shipping Distance
One of the most significant factors that affect the amount you pay for your car shipping is the distance your car needs to be shipped. It is important to note that the distance affects the quantity of fuel consumed, wear and tear on equipment, and driver hours.
When you are shipping to remote areas, it is often more expensive because auto transport companies spend more hours navigating the bad roads, risking theft and having to deviate from major highways connecting cities to deliver your vehicle.
Also, the time spent shipping your cars to remote destinations often reduces the carrier’s profits since popular routes to urban areas are always more in demand. Furthermore, while shipping a long distance, the driver might have to pay taxes, tolls, and fees, which reflects on the cost of your shipment.
The size and weight of your car also play a huge role when it comes to the cost of transportation. If you are shipping larger and heavier vehicles, then it means your vehicle requires more space and resources to transport. It also makes the company ship fewer cars, increasing the cost charged.
Many shipping companies often give prices according to the size vehicle. For example, compact cars, sedans, SUVs, trucks, luxury cars, and oversized vehicles. Although you cannot change the prices, knowing the price range will make you well-prepared.
Car shipping companies typically offer two types of transport methods. Open carrier transport is the most common and cost-effective option. Vehicles are transported on an open trailer, exposed to weather and road debris. This method is suitable for standard vehicles and is widely used for everyday car shipments.
Enclosed carrier transport offers greater protection from weather conditions, dust, and debris, making it ideal for luxury, classic, and exotic cars. However, this option is significantly more expensive and can sometimes be 50% more than open transport. Choosing between these two options depends on your budget and the level of protection you require for your vehicle.
Also, non-operational vehicles that cannot be driven onto the transport truck require extra labor and equipment, such as a winch or forklift, to load and unload. This also increases the shipping price. If your vehicle has been modified with oversized tyres, lifted suspension, or any non-standard additions, these factors may increase costs as well due to the extra space and care required.
Pick-Up and Delivery Locations
Where your car is picked up and delivered significantly impacts the price. If you are shipping between major cities and transportation hubs that are closer to one another will be cheaper because these locations are more accessible for auto transport companies.
However, rural or remote areas often require extra effort, time, and fuel for drivers, leading to higher costs. Urban areas with much traffic or restricted access can also lead to extra charges, as carriers may need to make additional arrangements for safe pick-up and delivery.
Time of the Year
Auto transport prices fluctuate throughout the year due to changes in demand. Summer is considered the peak season for car shipping, which means high demand and increased prices while during the winter, prices are often lower.
Holiday periods also impact shipping rates, as limited carrier availability may drive up prices. Also, severe weather conditions such as hurricanes, snowstorms, and heavy rain, can delay shipments and increase costs due to longer delivery times.
In colder months, icy roads and hazardous driving conditions can slow down transport, making the process more expensive due to increased risks and fuel consumption.
Fuel Prices
When fuel prices rise, auto shipping companies also change their rates to cover the increased fuel expenses. Since fuel prices fluctuate based on global and national market conditions, keeping an eye on fuel trends can help you predict potential changes in shipping costs. If fuel prices spike unexpectedly, shipping costs may also increase, affecting your overall transportation budget.
Additional Services and Insurance
Many auto transport companies offer additional services that can increase the total cost. For example: expedited shipping provides faster delivery for an extra fee. Some customers also opt for top-load placement, where their car is placed on the upper deck of an open carrier to avoid dirt and debris from other vehicles.
Additional insurance coverage is another factor that can impact the overall price. While basic insurance is typically included in the shipping cost, many customers choose to purchase extra coverage for added protection, especially for high-value or luxury vehicles.
In Conclusion
The best way to get an accurate estimate is to request quotes from multiple auto transport companies, compare their services, and choose the one that best fits your budget and needs.
By planning, being flexible with your shipment dates, and selecting the right transport method, you will have a smooth and cost-effective car shipping experience. You should also research different shipping options and seasonal price changes to get the best deal for your car shipping needs.
Are you looking for the best auto transport company to ship your car across the United States? US car-Go Freight is the best in the industry. With our many years of experience, expertise and attention to detail, we ensure you get the best quote and your vehicle is delivered without any issues.
- What Goes Into a Car Shipping Price Estimate?
What Goes Into a Car Shipping Price Estimate? Are you… Read more: What Goes Into a Car Shipping Price Estimate? - How to Ship a Classic and Luxury Car SafelyHow to Ship a Classic and Luxury Car Safely Classic… Read more: How to Ship a Classic and Luxury Car Safely
- Importance of Verifying Carrier Transport Records, Insurance, and ReliabilityImportance of Verifying Carrier Transport Records, Insurance, and Reliability Many… Read more: Importance of Verifying Carrier Transport Records, Insurance, and Reliability
