by Autosled
COVID’s Impact on the Automotive Industry and Car Sales
It is hard to ignore the significant effects of the coronavirus pandemic on all aspects of American society and life. However, the impact of the virus on the automotive industry has been particularly interesting and thought-provoking over the past few months.
In June of 2020, US car sales experienced one of their worst quarters since the recession. The culprits? Pandemic-induced dealership closures, substantial automotive job losses, and closings of auto plants leading to limited supplies of the popular vehicle models in the dealership lots. Perhaps factors such as the increased time spent at home may have also contributed to fewer consumers seeking out buying cars.
However, despite hits to the new car market, automotive sales, particularly in the used car markets, have seen increased popularity during today’s COVID age. Part of this shift toward buying used cars may be tied to economic uncertainty brought on by the pandemic and high unemployment rates.
Going digital
Another major shift the industry has experienced is a push toward digitizing car buying, selling, and transporting processes. Many consumers are concerned about their health and adhering to social distancing/limited human contact guidelines. As a result, online car sales seem to be the way of the future.
Some companies in the online car selling industry have seen huge influxes to their business. For example, the US-based company, Carvana which specializes in online-only car sales, saw a 25% year-over-year rise in car sales during the second quarter of 2020. Their stock share price has risen accordingly over time. It skyrocketed from roughly $30 a share in mid-March to close to $215 at the end of August.
Looking toward the future
Effects of the virus span across the US and outward to overseas markets. According to a recent analysis by Counterpoint, US automotive markets are still fragile. On the other hand, China’s vehicle sales continue on their fast recovery track.
It’s hard to predict what the future will hold for the automotive industry. The renewed popularity of used cars undoubtedly presents an opportunity. As does the digitization of automotive services. As of now, the automotive industry continues to perform at a reduced level in comparison to pre-COVID times. This is due to supply lines being disrupted and the overall demand for cars dampening. Hope for the future seems to point to digitizing the auto industry in a variety of key ways.
Want to join the digital automotive revolution? Check out the Autosled and learn how our app streamlines the car shipping process by making it contactless.
by Autosled
People’s vehicles are often some of their most prized possessions, so protecting them is essential. Need to move your car across states? It can be a logistical hassle. When deciding whether to drive yourself or have your car shipped, consider some of the major benefits when you ship a car below.
Less Stress
For one, road trips are never easy. You’ll need to prepare your car for a trek, plan out rest and gas stops, potentially book hotel stays in between if you’re driving long distance, and stop for meals. On top of that, there are external factors like dealing with other drivers, road work, and traffic congestion that can slow you down and lead to an unpleasant trip.
Choosing to ship your car with a company or service can eliminate all those pesky issues. An auto transport service will take the stress of planning off of your hands and get your car to its destination safely and with ease. You can even request extra precautionary accommodations like enclosed transport to shield your car from road debris and the elements.
If you have more than one car, you may even be able to get a discount for shipping two at once to the same destination.
Saves Time
Perhaps the biggest lure of car shipping is the time-saving aspect. You may have a hectic schedule with little time off of work or may simply want to avoid eight-plus hours behind the wheel. Either way, car shipping is the way to go. When scheduling a vehicle transport with a shipping company, you can select a convenient window of time for you, during which your car will be delivered.
Often Saves Money
Contrary to popular belief, shipping cars can be super affordable. It can even save you money when compared to driving yourself, especially when it comes to longer, cross-country trips. Think about it. When you factor in the costs of driving like gas, food stops on the way, and hotel stays, you may find you would save money by shipping.
Another way you may save money is when it comes to insurance costs. Car insurance rates are partially affected by the distance you drive and long-distance road trips can hike up your premium. If you choose to ship your vehicle, you eliminate the risk of your insurance rates going up.
No Mileage Buildup
A huge additional advantage of shipping a car that some people may not consider is that no miles will be added to your car on the trip. You’ll be sparing your car the added miles that can decrease its resale value in the long-run. On top of that, you will be saving your car from general wear and tear, especially to its tires.
Reliability and Peace of Mind
One of the positive aspects of handing your car over to a professional transport service is that you know your vehicle is in capable hands. The transporter has likely completed countless vehicle transports prior and is an expert driver with the appropriate equipment to secure and protect your vehicle.
Think you’re ready to ship your vehicle or vehicles? Give us a call at 1-877-728-8675, email us at support@autosled.com or download our app for Apple or Android.
by Autosled
Learn About What Auto Haulers Do
Those who aren’t familiar with the car industry may inquire, what does a car transporter do? An auto hauler, otherwise known as a car transporter is responsible for driving vehicles from pickup to drop-off locations depending on shipping specifications provided by whoever hired them.
Car transport companies and services quote you the costs of car transport and take care of all the logistics of transport. To save yourself stress, booking far in advance is the way to go.
Give you a price quote
Reliable auto transport companies and services will be able to provide you with a quick, free price quote. The quoted price will often vary based on factors such as the distance the vehicle needs to travel, its make and model, the car’s condition, the type of transport (enclosed etc.), and the addresses for dropoff and pickup. If you need to get your car to its destination quicker than what’s normal, you will often have to pay an additional fee. The same may be true for shipping specialty vehicles that require additional care. Some details to keep in mind during the process of finding an auto transport service are:
- Shorter trips cost less than moving vehicles across long-distances
- More frequently traveled routes are often cheaper
- Larger cars cost more to ship than smaller vehicles
Get your car picked up
Once booked, an auto hauler will show up at the departure location on the day and time you specify and begin the journey to the destination. With Autosled, parties shipping vehicles can track their car via GPS in our app, so they know the exact arrival time.
When preparing your car for shipping, requirements may vary between transport companies or individuals. Make sure you follow any guidelines the transport service specifies for preparing your car to make sure your vehicle’s pickup goes off without a hitch.
Drive safely and keep your car protected
One thing reputable auto transport services can guarantee is expert and safe driving. Established car haulers are often people who have made hundreds if not thousands of shipment trips. It is what they do in their day-to-day lives. They are well equipped to keep your vehicle safe on the journey.
Get your car to its destination
Your car hauler will often call you when your vehicle has nearly reached its destination. Additionally, with the Autosled App, you can correspond with transporters via instant message and track your car through GPS directly in the app. No need for playing phone tag!
With a myriad of auto shipping options available in today’s world, the job of a transporter is undoubtedly crucial.
by Autosled
Checklist for Snowbirds
“Snowbird” season is fast approaching with October just around the corner. And no, we are not talking about actual birds. Rather, the term snowbird colloquially refers to seasonal travelers who migrate south to warmer weather during the winter months and then return to the north for the spring. Snowbirds often fall into the baby boomer demographic spanning from ages 50 to over 70. Common places snowbirds flock to are Florida, California, and Arizona.
When it comes to seasonal relocation, snowbirds have a lot to consider when traveling each way. Below is a checklist of things snowbirds should think about before making their move.
1. Sort out travel plans
Are you planning to drive? Do you prefer to book a plane flight? These are questions to ask yourself in advance so you can make the appropriate accommodations. Whether you schedule a flight or plan out your driving route and accommodations along the way, deciding in advance is the way to go. The more time you leave before your departure, the lower the prices and the sounder your peace of mind.
2. Decide if vehicle shipping is needed
Making a long-distance drive can be taxing. The costs of driving across states can also add up when it comes to gas, food stops, and potentially hotel rooms along the way. Shipping your car ahead of you can be a good way to reduce your stress and ensure a safe trip. With Autosled, you are able to track your shipped vehicle in real-time. That way you know exactly when it will arrive at its destination at all times and there is no need for waiting around or constant calls to your transporter. Contact us for more information or to book your vehicle shipment.
3. Determine whether to rent or own
When traveling between two different locations on a seasonal basis each year, it is important to decide whether you want to rent or own your secondary residence. If you are new to the snowbird lifestyle, renting may be a good option to start out. That way you can determine whether or not you like the area and the residence you have chosen. After some time migrating back and forth you may decide to make the more permanent commitment of buying the secondary residence. If you end up buying a second residence, you will have to designate which is your primary residence for IRS purposes. If your second home has a mortgage, you may need to also obtain homeowners’ insurance for it.
4. Think about how to receive medical care
You may want to find a physician in your snowbird area if your health insurance policy does not allow for coverage when you’re living outside of your home state.
5. Prep the primary residence for the absence
When leaving your northern residence for the warmer months, you have to remember to complete several tasks to ensure your home is equipped. Turn off the water and consider whether to leave on electricity during your time away. Consider leaving on the heat to ensure the pipes won’t freeze. If where you live gets a lot of snow, you may want to schedule snow removal services. Finally, remember to have all your mail redirected to your secondary residence or plan to pay bills online or in advance.
by Autosled
Enclosed Vs. Open Transport: Which is Right for You?
When shipping a vehicle, deciding whether to do open or closed transport is a crucial component. Considering enclosed transport or feeling unsure about which shipping method to choose? Read on to learn about what differentiates enclosed transport from open transport.
Open transport is the most common type of automotive shipping and is usually cheaper to arrange than enclosed transport. With open transport, vehicles are generally shipped on a two-level trailer. This type of transport is well-suited for standard models and used cars but can be used for any vehicle.
Enclosed transport, on the other hand, refers to the type of vehicle shipping where cars are contained within a fully enclosed trailer. The closed container allows for greater vehicle protection and security. This transport type is commonly used for people moving luxury, new, or classic car models.
What type of car do you have?
The first factor to consider when choosing a shipping method is your vehicle type. Do you have a luxury, classic, or exotic vehicle? Does your car have a custom paint job? Is your vehicle new? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you may want to consider enclosed transport for additional vehicle damage protection.
Have a standard vehicle model (whether it be a sedan, a minivan, or a truck) or a used car? Open transport is most likely a solid choice for your shipping needs.
What is your budget?
Cost varies when it comes to transporting a vehicle. Open transport is often cheaper since it is a more commonly offered option and can accommodate larger vehicle loads. Enclosed transport due to its additional protective measures and smaller vehicle loads often is expensive.
To get a price quote on your vehicle transport, contact Autosled today.
How fast do you need your vehicle shipped?
Timing for your vehicle shipment can also determine what shipping option you should select. Enclosed transport isn’t as widely offered as open transport, so if you are looking to move your car quickly, with many options and minimal hassle, open transport is most likely your best bet.
What are the weather conditions like?
The final factor to consider when it comes to shipping selection is the weather during your vehicle transport. Worried about snow, severe weather, dust, dirt, or other roadside debris? Enclosed transport can give you peace of mind that your vehicle will arrive at its destination unscathed.
