Shipping your car across the country can seem expensive, but with a little planning and the right strategies, you can significantly reduce costs while ensuring safe and reliable service. Whether you’re moving to a new state, purchasing a car from a distant seller, or relocating for work, finding ways to save on car shipping is essential for keeping your move affordable.
In this article, we’ll explore several tips and strategies to help you reduce the cost of cross-country car transport while still securing affordable auto shipping that meets your needs.
- Compare Quotes from Multiple Auto Transport Companies
One of the easiest and most effective ways to save on car shipping is by comparing quotes from multiple auto transport companies. Prices can vary widely between providers based on factors such as route availability, demand, and company overhead. By requesting quotes from at least three or four different companies, you can get a better sense of the going rate and find the best deal.
When comparing quotes, be sure to provide the same details to each company, including pick-up and delivery locations, vehicle size, and desired shipping dates. This will ensure that the quotes are accurate and comparable. Additionally, beware of extremely low quotes, as they may come with hidden fees or less reliable service.
- Book in Advance
Booking your cross-country car transport in advance can help you lock in lower rates and avoid last-minute price hikes. Auto transport companies often offer better deals to customers who schedule their shipments early because it allows them to plan routes and allocate resources more efficiently.
Last-minute bookings, especially during peak moving seasons, tend to be more expensive due to limited availability and the need for expedited service. If you know when you’ll need your car shipped, book your transport as early as possible to secure the best rate.
- Be Flexible with Pick-Up and Delivery Dates
Flexibility is key to saving money on cross-country car transport. If you can be flexible with your pick-up and delivery dates, you’ll have more options to choose from, which can lead to lower costs. Transport companies often offer discounts for shipments that fit into their pre-scheduled routes or have broader time windows for pick-up and delivery.
For example, if you allow a range of days for your car to be picked up rather than requesting a specific date, you may be able to take advantage of a spot on a transport truck that’s already passing through your area. Similarly, opting for standard delivery rather than expedited service can help reduce costs significantly.
- Choose Open Transport Over Enclosed Transport
When deciding on the best shipping method, open car transport is the most affordable auto shipping option. In open transport, your vehicle is transported on an open trailer along with several other cars, making it the most cost-effective method for long-distance car shipping.
While enclosed transport offers extra protection from weather and road debris, it can cost 30% to 50% more than open transport. For most everyday vehicles, open transport is perfectly safe and reliable, making it the best choice for budget-conscious customers.
Unless you’re shipping a luxury or classic car that requires additional protection, open car transport is the most practical and economical solution for moving your vehicle across the country.
- Consider Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
While door-to-door auto transport is the most convenient option, choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping can save you money. With terminal shipping, you’ll drop off your vehicle at a designated terminal and pick it up from another terminal at the destination. This method requires a bit more effort on your part, but it can reduce the overall cost of shipping.
Terminal-to-terminal shipping tends to be less expensive because it allows transport companies to consolidate shipments at central hubs, reducing the number of trips and stops they need to make. If you’re willing to drop off and pick up your car at specific locations, this option can lead to significant savings.
- Ship During the Off-Peak Season
Timing your cross-country car transport during the off-peak season is another way to reduce costs. Auto transport prices tend to rise during the summer months and around major holidays, as these are the busiest times for moving and vehicle shipping.
If you can schedule your shipment during the fall or winter, you’ll likely find lower rates due to reduced demand. However, keep in mind that winter weather can sometimes cause delays, so plan accordingly and be flexible with your timeline if shipping during colder months.
- Reduce Vehicle Weight
Reducing the weight of your vehicle can help lower your shipping costs. Many transport companies factor the weight of the vehicle into their pricing, as heavier vehicles require more fuel and take up more space on the trailer. To minimize your car’s weight, remove any personal belongings from the interior and take off any aftermarket accessories, such as bike racks or roof racks.
Additionally, leaving only about a quarter of a tank of gas in the car is recommended. This provides enough fuel for loading and unloading but keeps the vehicle’s weight down, which can slightly reduce shipping costs.
- Check for Discounts
Many auto transport companies offer discounts or promotions that can help you save money on cross-country car transport. Common discounts include:
- Military discounts
- Student discounts
- Senior citizen discounts
- First-time customer promotions
- Seasonal or promotional discounts
When requesting a quote, ask the transport company if they offer any discounts that apply to your situation. Taking advantage of these offers can further reduce your overall shipping costs.
- Avoid Expedited Shipping
If you’re not in a rush to receive your vehicle, opting for standard shipping rather than expedited service is a great way to save on car shipping. Expedited shipping guarantees faster pick-up and delivery times but comes at a premium price.
By choosing standard shipping with flexible dates, you can allow the transport company to fit your car into their regular schedule, resulting in a lower cost. This is an excellent option if you have the flexibility to wait a few extra days for your vehicle to arrive.
- Bundle Multiple Vehicles
If you’re moving more than one car, bundling your shipments with the same company can lead to discounts. Transport companies often offer reduced rates for shipping multiple vehicles at once, as this allows them to fill their trailer more efficiently.
Bundling vehicles is a great way to save on car shipping if you and your family are relocating and need to move several cars at once.
Shipping your car across the country doesn’t have to break the bank. By comparing quotes, booking in advance, being flexible with your schedule, and choosing cost-effective options like open transport or terminal-to-terminal shipping, you can save on car shipping while still ensuring that your vehicle is transported safely. With these tips, you’ll be able to find affordable auto shipping that fits your budget and provides the peace of mind you need for a smooth and stress-free experience. See some different payment options like pay per card, Bitcoin and other.
