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.
by Autosled
Tips on Shipping Your Vehicle for Less
Getting your vehicle from point A to point B can be an ordeal. Looking to find a cheap, but also a reliable transport option? Read on to learn all the factors that go into how to ship a car without breaking the bank.
Vehicle transport prices fluctuate widely and are unique to every individual shipment. The average cost to ship a car across the country ranges from $700 to $900. However, the actual cost will depend on a variety of factors such as the distance between the pickup and destination points, the time of year you are shipping, the type of shipping, the size of the vehicle, and the vehicle make and model.
Compare Prices and Get Multiple Quotes
One of the best ways to ensure you get a low price on your vehicle shipment is to do your research and get individual quotes from a variety of companies. Requesting quotes from 3 to 5 companies should be sufficient to give you an idea of what a fair price would look like for your specific vehicle transportation.
Be wary of companies with super high or super low prices. Rock bottom prices may indicate low-quality transport or could simply be too good to be true. On the other hand, disproportionately expensive prices may signal that the company overcharges unsuspecting consumers.
The price that is initially quoted is not always the final price. Make sure before you book that there are no hidden fees or upcharges on the horizon.
Book Early
Often, starting the process of booking your shipment around 2 weeks before you need your vehicle shipped will work in your favor. If you need your car shipped ASAP, you may be forced to settle for a higher price out of necessity. The more time you have before you need your vehicle transported, the more time you are giving yourself to find the best possible deal. Planning ahead may even save you hundreds of dollars in comparison to a rushed transport booking.
Use Open Transport
Although not ideal for every vehicle, open transport is a great shipping option to ensure you save money. Open transport refers to automotive shipping where vehicles are shipped on semi-trailers. It is the most widely offered and common type of vehicle transport. Plus, it is often hundreds of dollars cheaper than enclosed transport (where vehicles are shipped in smaller quantities in an enclosed truck.)
Open transport is well suited for used cars and standard models but can be used for any type of vehicle according to its owner’s comfort. Unless you have a luxury or classic vehicle that you feel requires additional protection, open transport will serve you well and reduce the transportation price tag.
Ship During Off-Season
Peak vehicle shipping season falls in the summer months of June through August. Sometimes peak season even continues through October. College students are heading back to school, families are relocating, and the weather is warm. Due to high demand during these times, prices are much higher. The same can be said for the weeks surrounding major holidays like Christmas.
When it comes to quiet, off-season months, January through March are your best bets. February, in particular, is a great month for low demand and low transport prices. If you have the flexibility to schedule your shipment during an off-season month, your wallet will thank you.
Be Flexible with Pickup and Dropoff Locations
The lure of door-to-door shipping is strong. However, if you are looking for the cheapest transport option, driving a little bit out of your way will drive down your vehicle transportation cost.
If your pickup or dropoff locations are remote or difficult to access, you will have to pay a premium to ship your car there. However, if you are willing to drive to more convenient locations for your transporter (locations off of major highways or centrally located in cities) you can save a great deal of money.
You also may want to consider terminal to terminal carrier options. Many carriers have terminal yards across the U.S. where vehicles can be shipped and temporarily stored. These terminal to terminal dropoff shipments are much less expensive than door-to-door shipping would be.
Be Flexible with the Delivery Timeframe
When you have a tight schedule for vehicle delivery, you will almost always have to pay a higher price. The best way to save money on your shipment is to allow yourself plenty of time before you need your vehicle delivered. If you are willing to wait a few extra days to get your car, you can save a lot of money.
Eliminate the Broker
Finally, being your own broker, as opposed to hiring an auto transport broker cuts down on fees. This entails contacting transport companies yourself to get multiple quotes or using marketplaces like Autosled to self-dispatch your vehicle/s. In addition to compiling quotes, you will also have to research the companies to ensure they are licensed, insured, and reputable. It will also be your responsibility to coordinate pickup with dropoff locations.
All these steps can be a headache, but being your own broker will save you money if you are willing to put in the additional work. Luckily, Autosled’s app and our desktop interface makes being your own broker, getting quick price quotes, and staying in contact with your transporter easy. Contact Autosled today to learn more about our service and how to ship your car today.
