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Considerations When Shipping a Car Overseas

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Are you planning an international move? If so, you might be interested in bringing your car along, in which case you would need to utilize international car shipping services. It is important to begin planning and preparing well in advance so you can come up with a transportation plan that best fits your needs and budget. Though it may seem overwhelming, shipping a car overseas is actually a straightforward process. Here we will take a look at everything you will need to know in order to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

How Much Will it Cost?

Perhaps the biggest consideration will be the price of having your car shipped overseas. The price will depend on several factors. First, you will need to consider the distance from your home to the nearest seaport. The U.S. Ports of entry are located in L.A., San Francisco, Miami, Jacksonville, New York City, Norfolk, Charleston, Wilmington, and Baltimore. It could cost you several hundred dollars or over a thousand dollars depending on how far you are located from the closest seaport. Next, you will need to consider the distance to the foreign country. Obviously, the greater the distance, the higher the shipping cost.

Overseas Taxes and Charges

When estimating the cost, don’t forget to take into consideration import duties and customs taxes, along with delivery fees in the foreign country. There will be different tariffs and duties that are calculated based on the value of the vehicle and the size of the engine. An experienced international shipping company should be able to inform you about these additional costs.

Know the Laws and Regulations Regarding Importing Vehicles

Every country has different laws regarding what types of vehicles may be imported and exported. Keep in mind that many countries will not allow the importation of cars over a certain age. Prior to scheduling shipment, you should check with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements for importing and exporting motor vehicles.

Finding the Right Shipping Company

The last thing you need is to feel rushed to find an international car shipping company. There are quite a few different companies out there that offer this service so you will definitely want to do plenty of research to find the right one for your needs. As with most things these days, your search will likely begin online. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a reputable car shipping company:

  • They offer services from your current location to your new one
  • They are properly licensed, bonded, and insured (The company should be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission. You can verify licensure on their website.)
  • They only work with third parties who are also licensed, bonded, and insured
  • They have several positive reviews (check online as well as with the Better Business Bureau)
  • Their price is reasonable. (be cautious of prices that are too low, as this can sometimes be a red flag)

Gather Your Documents

Next you will need to consider what documents are required for international car shipment so you can be sure you have everything ready to go. As with most other international shipments, there is paperwork involved. You will need to provide the following documents to the U.S. Port of Entry at least 72 hours before the date of transport:

  • Original Title along with two notarized copies of the original document
  • Bill of Sale
  • A Shipper Export Declaration
  • A copy of your U.S. passport

Keep in mind that different ports have different paperwork requirements so check with your shipping company to ensure you have the required documents.

Types of Overseas Car Shipping Methods

You will need to consider which method of shipment will work best for you. There are two main car shipping methods for overseas transport. The first is Roll On, Roll Off (RORO) in which your car is driven onto a ship, secured, and transported. This is the cheapest method of transport, but your vehicle will be in the open and exposed to the weather elements. The second mode is a shipping container. It costs more, but is the preferred method because it offers much greater safety and protection because your car is securely fixed inside a metal container for the duration of the journey.

Challenges You Face When Shipping a Car

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Auto shipping is a convenient option for transporting your vehicle across a long distance. However, that’s not to say it doesn’t come without its challenges. Your vehicle is a valuable and highly-priced item so you want to be sure it is in the right hands and you are well prepared. Any time you are moving a valuable possession, it can be fraught with stress. Although you cannot anticipate every problem you may encounter with auto shipping, there are certainly a few challenges that are more common than others. Here are some of the most common challenges you may face with auto shipping and how to overcome them.

Potential Risk of Damage

Though it is not expected, there is always the possibility that your car could get damaged during the shipping process. Between loading and unloading vehicles onto trailers and then driving those trailers over bumpy roads, there is always a chance that your car could incur damage. It’s also possible that damage could occur from heavy rain, ice, snow, or flying debris on the roadway. The best way to avoid potential damage is to choose a company that provides the right equipment and experience to handle your vehicle safely. As for the weather, you can always opt for an enclosed trailer if you are shipping a luxury, antique, or brand new vehicle that may require additional protection.

Delayed Delivery

Delayed delivery is one of the most common challenges that can arise with car shipment. Though car shipping companies try their best to deliver your car on the expected delivery date, there are a lot of factors that can affect shipping times that are completely out of anyone’s control. For example, your driver could encounter bad weather, traffic jams, road closures, or even unexpected maintenance issues with the trailer carrying your vehicle. Keep in mind that it is impossible for any company to provide an exact delivery date, but try to work with a reputable company that has a history of timely delivery.

Scams and Fraudulent Estimates

Unfortunately, not all companies are legitimate and there are scammers out there. The best way to avoid being scammed by a fraudulent company is to do your own research ahead of time. Confirm the company’s licensing and registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This is also a good resource for checking their safety history. Inquire about insurance and make sure your vehicle is covered in the event it gets damaged. You also want to read reviews and ask around to see if friends or coworkers can provide a reference. Finally, ask for your estimate in writing and verify that there will not be any additional fees or charges.

Poor Communication

Lack of communication is another common challenge in auto shipment and unfortunately can interfere with the shipping process. To avoid this, be sure your car meets the travel-specific requirements ahead of time and let the carrier know if there are any concerns or issues. You should also request to exchange contact information with the driver so you can stay up-to-date with your car’s delivery status.

Importance of Regular Checkups for Any Vehicle

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As a vehicle owner, you know that it is essential to do routine maintenance. There are many distinct reasons why vehicles may require repair, and you should regularly check for any problems to avoid possible damages or permanent issues to your vehicle. 

When something breaks on your vehicle, it is usually an emergency. This means that you have to spend time and money getting the problem fixed right away so that you can get on with your life. Routine checkups make operating costs more predictable. If you check up on your car regularly, it will be easier to pinpoint and fix issues right away. These checks may help prevent a problem from getting worse so that you don't need to worry about calling for emergency service in the future.

Preventative maintenance is all about routine testing for your car. You will want to take it to a certified mechanic to ensure that your vehicle is functioning correctly. The mechanic can run checks on the entire vehicle system and outline the problems you should fix. However, if you have some basic knowledge, you can occasionally conduct these checks on your own.

Some of the things you should check up regularly include:

•           Inspect tires for proper air pressure and cracks.

•           Check and change oil and transmission fluid if necessary.

•           Check and replace any worn belts or hoses that may not be working well

•           Perform regular checks on spark plugs and distributor caps

•           Check air, fuel, and oil filters.

•           Perform routine brake checks.

This informative guide will discuss the immense importance of regularly checking your car for problems. Whether you want to run through the checks yourself or drop your vehicle off for a professional, regularly keeping up with your vehicle will allow you to know what is going on and prevent issues from occurring ahead of time.

Here are seven reasons why regular checkups for any vehicle are crucial.

1. Increased Safety

Performing regular checkups for your vehicle ensures that you are aware of the current condition, which leads to improved safety. If you do not do all the required checks and or regular maintenance, there is a chance that an issue will arise when you least expect it. If they occur when traveling at high speeds, problems such as leaking oil or low tire pressure could result in catastrophic accidents. Whether you are driving a brand-new car or an older model, you should regularly check up on your car's safety features. This means checking the treads of tires, brake rotors, brake pads, and other components. If any of these things are worn down, they need to be replaced before on time. It is crucial to check the engine as well.

In addition to your car's safety features, you must regularly check for any rusting components. Rust quickly leads to metal fatigue and failure. Ignoring more minor issues can lead to a devastating outcome when they progress into more complex problems. For instance, if you do not replace your wiper blades when needed, they become worn out and do not clean the windshield properly. This can cause it to appear foggy while driving on a rainy day. Driving in such situations with non-functioning wipers makes it difficult to see the road, road signs, and other cars. If you drive in such weather, the chances of causing an accident are pretty high.

2. Improved Performance

A big part of proper vehicle maintenance is making sure that you keep your car running as efficiently as possible. Completing all the required checks ensures that any problems with the engine or pistons are known and can be fixed before they happen. Besides, regularly checking the engine ensures that you are aware of any leaks in the cooling system.

Your vehicle is going to perform better if it is well maintained. For example, a clean engine is more efficient and will work better while using less fuel. Besides, it will have a longer lifespan, so you can extend the life of your vehicle while enjoying a smooth-running car. Furthermore, if your vehicle maintains optimal performance levels, you will enjoy better speed and safety when driving around.

If you are not sure where to start with checking the engine, one of the first things you should look for is any rust in the components. Corrosion can cause significant problems, mainly if it affects metal parts such as exhausts or fuel lines. When performing regular checks, you will want to pay close attention to your car's wheel alignment and tire pressure. It is essential to check the tires, especially if you are using winter tires or have recently switched between treads.

3. Enhanced fuel efficiency

Regular checkups can help you get more out of your car in terms of both performance and mileage. Fuel efficiency relies on various factors, such as the age of your vehicle and the mileage covered. However, the state of the engine is also a significant factor in regards to fuel efficiency variation. If your car develops problems in its engine or something else that affects performance, your gas bill will increase. Running your car with old oil could cause the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Keeping your vehicle up-to-date with a regular checkups schedule will help you save money on gas and car maintenance. In addition, properly aligned tires can also improve gas efficiency. A frequent oil change is necessary for the smooth running of any vehicle and increases your gas mileage. Fresh oil keeps the engine cool, reduces friction, and enhances the engine's performance. When your engine is running correctly, the cylinders and pistons work together efficiently to provide optimal compression. Checking up on all the moving parts of your car means that there are no problems with the pistons, valves, or anything else that could contribute to excessive use of fuel.

If your air filter gets clogged with dust and debris, the engine must work harder to produce power. So, when performing your routine maintenance, you should pay attention to the state of the air filter to preserve good gas mileage. You can save a lot of cash by taking care of your car's maintenance through regular checks.

4. Saves Time

Checking your vehicle might seem like a waste of time if you are in a hurry. However, driving without knowing if all the car parts are fully functioning can give you a terrible experience on the road if a problem arises. For example, if you do not check the tire pressure and notice a loud hissing sound while driving, it will take longer for you to discover what is causing the noise. You might end up spending a lot of time trying to figure out where the issue is. In addition to saving time, regularly checking up on your vehicle also saves you the hassle of waiting at a mechanic's office.

Being “too busy” should never be an excuse for not taking your car to the mechanic for a check-up. Taking the time to perform these checks can save you more of your precious free time in the long run. The big drawback is that the checkup process can be inconvenient and time-consuming, especially if you are pressed for time or work full-time. However, regular maintenance checks will take less of your free time than it would to tow the car to your mechanic, pay high maintenance costs, or call in a friend to help you out. For example, if you do not check your brake fluid levels, you may end up pulling over to take care of this issue while driving down the road. Apart from consuming a lot of your time, this can lead to a more dangerous situation, not just for you but also for other drivers on the road. If your vehicle starts to overheat, it could shut down while driving on the highway at high speed. This could lead to a potentially dangerous situation should the car stop abruptly in traffic. For example, if you hear a loud rattling noise coming from underneath the car, you can have it checked by a mechanic so that they do not need to crawl under the vehicle. This saves you time and hassle - especially if there are other problems present.

5. Easier repairs

Paying for a mechanic to do all the regular inspections and checks for you might seem like an unnecessary expense. Still, it beats paying more money later due to neglecting initial problems from lack of regular upkeep. A poorly maintained car can prove to be a headache when it needs complex maintenance or the replacement of distinct parts. If the engine is not in good condition, it might be more challenging for a mechanic to determine what is wrong with your car and how much labor will be needed. Besides, poorly maintained components could potentially cause additional damage while being fixed. You will want to pay attention to the most likely areas to break during a regular operation, such as tires, brakes, and the engine. It is also helpful to use a checklist, so you know the exact areas to inspect.

Checking your vehicle's components frequently lets mechanics know what will be required during future inspections. This means that they do not have to spend as much time guessing what needs to be done. In addition to this, they will also know the extent of the damage and how it might affect future maintenance. For example, regularly checking the coolant levels can help indicate potential leaks. A small leak in the engine can eventually cause significant damage. You should also check the fluids regularly, especially if you are using winter tires, as this will help indicate whether there are any issues with your vehicle's battery batteries.

6. Saves you money

Regular checkups for general maintenance can save you a lot of money. By performing timely inspections you can avoid fixing complex problems which is often far more expensive than just checking your car early.

If you schedule regular maintenance, you ensure that your vehicle stays in good condition and that it will not need to be fixed or replaced any time soon. A fully maintained vehicle is worth more than one that has never had regular checkups done on it and is likely to last longer and ensure you get the most out of your purchase. A neglected car can have half the lifespan of the same vehicle, kept in good condition and regularly monitored.

7. Keep your car's value high.

If you want to get rid of your vehicle in one piece, you must maintain it well. One of the most critical aspects that can affect the value of your vehicle is the safety and quality of the components. No one wants to buy a car that could lead to an accident.. Not only does regular maintenance help ensure that your vehicle runs safely, but it also ensures that all the components are in working order and do not need any replacement.

Conclusion

Imagine what would happen if your engine malfunctioned in the middle of the night when driving in a remote area. By performing regular checks on your vehicle, you can rectify any issues that arise before they become severe or pose a risk to you and other road users. Preventive maintenance involves performing thorough routine checks on your vehicle after every few months. If you are not ready to get the service done yourself, you can take it to a mechanic for an inspection. An inspection by professionals provides an accurate diagnosis of the issues that surfaced with the car and may help save time and money.

What Should You Know About Car Shipping Rates?

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If you are planning to ship a car, the first question on your mind is probably, “How much will it cost?” Unlike other products and services, there is not a single fixed rate for auto shipment. There are actually a number of different factors that come into play when determining how a car’s shipping price is calculated. Auto-shipping is also a supply/demand business, which means rates will fluctuate based on demand. Let’s delve a little deeper into how shipping rates are calculated and what factors affect shipping prices.

Factors That Determine Shipping Rates

1. Distance: As one might expect, the farther you are shipping a car, the more it will cost you. Longer trips usually cost less per mile, but since there are more miles to be traveled you can expect this to be reflected in the price.

2. Vehicle Size and Type: Another important factor that will determine shipping costs is the make, model, and size of the vehicle being shipped. Since auto carriers have weight restrictions, larger and heavier vehicles will cost more to ship than smaller vehicles.

3. Vehicle Condition: If your vehicle is inoperable, you can expect to pay a higher price to ship it. That’s because inoperable vehicles require special equipment to load and unload the vehicle on and off the carrier. There is usually an additional charge of about $200 for vehicles that are not in working condition.

4. Location of Shipment: Another factor that affects shipping rates is the location of pickup and/or delivery. Heavily traveled routes such as those between major cities will cost less because there are likely to be other vehicles for carriers to pick up and drop off along the way. On the other hand, if you are delivering a vehicle to a rural area that is not heavily traveled, you can expect to pay a premium price.

5. Type of Carrier: Most shipping companies will give you the option of choosing between open and enclosed transport. Enclosed transport is more expensive because the carrier can hold fewer vehicles.

6. Time of Year: Given that this is a supply and demand industry, truckers will set prices based on demand. During certain times of the year, car shipping is in higher demand and this can sometimes affect shipping rates in those areas.

7. Fuel Costs: Gas and diesel prices can also affect shipping rates. Just as with the airline industry, if fuel prices go up so do the prices.

8. Expedited/ Rush Service: If you need your car delivered in a hurry, there are expedited shipping options that will increase the rate. On the other hand, if you are more flexible with your delivery date, you can save a lot of money.

Average Rates to Ship a Car

The typical car shipping cost can range anywhere from $500 to $1500. On average, the cost is about $2.92 per mile for distances under 200 miles and $0.78 per mile for distances over 1,000 miles. These numbers can give you a rough estimate of shipping costs, but the only way to get an accurate quote is by requesting a personalized estimate.

Should I Ship My Car or Sell it and Buy a New One?

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When you are moving across the country, you may be wondering how to get your car there without having to drive it. Better yet, you may be wondering if it’s more convenient and cost-effective just to sell it and buy a new one. While there are pros and cons to both options, it ultimately comes down to a few important factors. Here we will take a closer look at your options as well as specific factors that may determine which decision is right for you.

Option #1: Shipping Your Car

Moving across the country is stressful enough, and thinking about the logistics of getting your car there can make things all the more overwhelming. The good news is that auto shipping is a convenient, simple, and safe option for transporting your car thousands of miles. If you choose to ship your car, you can easily schedule the pickup and delivery of your car and you can rest easy knowing that your car will be safely delivered to your new home. That said, you may be wondering if it’s worth the cost to ship your car. In most cases, shipping a car is significantly cheaper than buying a new one. There are several factors that will determine the exact price but the average cost to ship a sedan across the country is around $1200-$1500. When you consider the cost of purchasing a new car, it’s easy to see that shipping is far more cost-effective.

Option #2: Sell Your Car and Buy a New One

Your second option is to avoid the hassle of shipping your car altogether and selling it instead. Then, you can buy a new car when you arrive at your new location. In some circumstances, this might make sense if you were planning to upgrade your car anyway. This might also be a feasible option if you are in need of cash right away to help with moving expenses. Keep in mind, however, that you will need to figure out transportation until you purchase a new car.

Things to Consider:

Personal Plans for the Car: Is your current car older and in need of several repairs? If so, you might feel like the time is right to simply sell that car and purchase a new one. After all, it won’t make much sense to pay shipping costs for a car that you plan to turn around and sell in a couple of months anyway.

Convenience: There is no doubt that shipping a car is an easy and convenient way to transport your car across the country. Once you do your research and find a reputable shipping company, you simply call to schedule your pickup and delivery. You can even arrange to have your car picked up and delivered right to your door. This can be a much more convenient option than fussing with finding a buyer.

Cost: There is no doubt that shipping will be more cost-effective than selling your car and buying a new one. Given that the average cost to ship a car across the country is around $1500, you are almost certainly going to pay much more to buy a new one.

Current Availability: Given the current market conditions for new and used cars, you might have a very hard time finding a car. Inventory for both new and used cars is at an all-time low and prices are on the rise as a result. For this reason, it appears that shipping your car will be your best option.

The bottom line is that shipping or selling your car really depends on whether or not you have plans to upgrade your vehicle. Despite the cost to ship your car, you will still be saving money and you can make the process easier and more convenient by shipping your car. Unless your car is nearing the end of its life or you simply want to upgrade your vehicle, it almost always makes more sense to ship your car.

Should I Contact More Than One Company When Shipping a Car?

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Transporting your car from one part of the country to another is no small feat. That’s where shipping companies come in handy. They handle all of the logistics of getting your car from Point A to Point B so you can focus on other things, perhaps like moving. That said, your car is one of your most prized possessions so you don’t want to hand it over to just anyone. You want to be sure you are working with an auto shipping company that is reputable, trusted, and reliable. Furthermore, you want to be sure you are getting a fair price for the shipment. For all of these reasons, it is important to do your research and contact more than one shipping company before choosing one for the job. Here are just a few things to consider when looking for an auto transport company.

Reviews

First and foremost you want to check out various companies’ reviews before settling on one. You can browse reviews on the internet, check safety reports through the U.S. Department of Transportation, talk with the Better Business Bureau, and finally, speak with the company themselves and ask for references. The more you research reviews, the more likely you will find yourself worthing with a reputable shipping company.

Rates

As you would with many other services, it is important to shop around and compare prices. Call multiple car shipping companies and request a personalized quote based on your specific vehicle and needs. You also want to make sure this quote includes everything, so you aren’t surprised by unexpected fees and charges.

Compare Insurance

Auto transport companies are required by law to have up-to-date insurance. However, you should never assume they do. Ask for proof and check the details regarding the policy. Compare coverage between companies and find out how each one handles damage claims.

Check for Proper Licensing

While most auto shipping companies are who they say they are, there are unfortunately some scammers out there. Therefore, you want to ask around and make sure each company you speak with can provide you with U.S. Department of Transportation number (DOT) as well as a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) number. It is required by law that auto shippers be properly licensed, and these numbers can be used to check for verification and safety history.

Compare Services

Different car shipping companies might have different services available for shipping. For instance, some companies offer the option to choose between open and enclosed transport. Others may give you the option to choose between door-to-door pickup and delivery versus terminal-to-terminal. Be sure to speak with different companies to find the one that provides the exact services you need.

What Should I Ask a Car Shipping Company?

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Hiring a car shipping company is a safe, easy, and convenient way to make a move less stressful. However, before handing your keys over to a shipping company, you want to be sure you are hiring the right company for the job. You also want to make sure you understand the process. How can you go about finding the right auto shipping company? Research is key in finding a reputable company that prides itself on exceptional customer service. Therefore, you need to know which specific questions to ask so you can find a company that aligns with your needs and budget. Here are some of the most important questions to ask before shipping your car.

1. Are you licensed and registered?

When researching auto transport companies, the first thing you want to do is verify that you are dealing with a company that is properly licensed and registered. It is required by law that auto transport companies be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. In doing so, they receive a DOT number that can be used for verification purposes and to check the company’s safety reports. In addition to a DOT number, interstate auto transport companies should also be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can access this information and check for verification by going to the FMCSA website.

2. What services do you offer?

Obviously, auto transport companies are in the business of shipping cars. However, there are several different shipping options available for customers to choose from. For example, some companies ship via open trailers only while others offer the option for open or enclosed transport. Some have the ability to ship non-operable vehicles while others do not. Finally, some offer door-to-door pickup and delivery while others only offer terminal-to-terminal services. Find out what specific services the company offers so you can decide which is right for you.

3. How much does it cost to ship my car?

The prices for car shipping will vary depending on a number of factors. Things like make, model, size of your vehicle, time of delivery, and method of delivery (open or enclosed carrier) can impact the cost of shipment. However, if you provide this information to the shipping company, they should be able to give you a free quote for shipping. Just be sure to make sure the quote that is provided includes everything so you aren’t faced with hidden fees and charges.

4. Are you insured?

Insurance is important when it comes to shipping a car. Although it is unlikely that your car will be damaged during transport, it is still a good idea to make sure your car is properly insured just in case. Most reputable car shipping companies will provide some insurance coverage, so you will need to find out those specific details to make sure it is adequate.

5. How long will it take to ship my car?

When it comes to car shipping timeframes, most companies will offer you a window for delivery. It is nearly impossible to determine an exact date, given that things like weather, traffic, maintenance problems, and other unforeseen circumstances are bound to happen. However, the shipping company should be able to give you an estimate. If you are in a time crunch, be sure to inquire about expedited shipping.

6. How do I prepare my car for shipment?

There are certain steps that need to be taken prior to shipment. These include cleaning your car, taking photographs of your vehicle, performing routine maintenance, removing exterior accessories and personal belongings, and leaving the gas tank only ¼ full. Be sure to ask the shipping company for specific instructions on preparing your vehicle for shipment.

7. What documents do I need?

You will need the right documentation to ship your vehicle so be sure to ask what documents are required. This will ensure that your transport goes smoothly and there are no delays with delivery.



Car Towing Vs. Shipping: Which to Choose

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When you are looking to transport your vehicle from one location to another, you have a couple of options. While driving may seem like the easiest choice, this isn’t always feasible. Luckily, there are other ways to transport your vehicle. First, you have the option of shipping your car with a reputable auto shipping company. Your second option would be to tow your vehicle. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each method so you can decide which is right for you.

Car Towing Methods

In simple terms, towing means having your car pulled behind another vehicle. You can do this by hiring a towing company or you can tow the vehicle yourself. Contacting a towing company is usually a reasonable option if you are transporting a car a short distance. Car towing companies tow dozens of vehicles each week so you can trust that they have the expertise to safely deliver your car. Furthermore, they are usually available around the clock so the availability can be incredibly convenient. Keep in mind, however, that towing rates are generally based on a per-mile rate so you might save money for short distances but this can end up being quite costly for a long-distance haul. It is not recommended to hire a towing company if you are towing your car across the country.

As for towing a car yourself, you can do so by renting a trailer or renting a moving truck with a tow dolly. This method is generally a bit cheaper than shipping, but there are several drawbacks that you must also consider. For starters, it could take several days to tow a car yourself, especially if you are towing it across the country. It can also be dangerous to travel across the country with a car in tow. You should also note that towing still puts additional wear and tear on your vehicle. Finally, you must have the proper equipment and knowledge of how to properly tow a vehicle. Therefore, these additional risks and extra time might not be worth the cost savings.

Shipping: What You Need to Know

Shipping a car is definitely the safest way to move a vehicle across the country. Many cars are perfectly fine making the journey on an open flatbed or double-deckers carrier but you also have the option of enclosed trailers for luxury or classic cars. It generally takes about 10-14 days to have your vehicle shipped across the country but you can enjoy the convenience of having a reputable auto transport company handle all of the logistics. Unlike towing a car, shipping a car is a stress-free and worry-free experience. As for the cost of shipping, it will depend on a number of factors but renting a trailer can actually cost almost as much as the full price of shipping your vehicle. Generally speaking, if the distance is long, it is much safer, easier, and more convenient to hire a reputable shipping company.

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Tips for Selling Your Car Online for the Best Price

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With the nation experiencing a serious vehicle shortage, used cars are in higher demand than ever before. If you are looking to sell your car, now might be the best time to do it. While you have the option of taking your car to a dealer, there’s a good chance they will offer you less money than a private buyer. After all, they are going to turn around and sell it so they are looking to maximize their profits. Listing your car online might be a better option, and one that brings more money to the table. Thanks to the ease and convenience of technology, sellers can even reach a broader audience by selling their car online. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure you get the best price when you sell your car online.

1. Choose Your Platform

There are lots of different sites and platforms where you can list your car online and each has its own pros and cons. Therefore, consider the car you are selling to decide which one is right for you. For example, if you are selling an old commuter car with high mileage, you could probably fare well using Facebook. The listing is free and there are no fees to list your car. You can also try Craigslist for free, but do be cautious of scammers. There are other listing platforms such as Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader that can usually bring more traffic, higher prices, and they are better at filtering out scammers. However, these do have fees associated with them. Higher value cars and trucks might bring more traffic and money on a site like Bring a Trailer, Hemmings, or eBay.

2. Know your Car’s Value

It is very important that you know what your car is worth so you can price it accordingly. One of the easiest ways to find your car’s value is by checking Kelley Blue Book. This is a great tool for finding out how much the car is worth on the private market so you can set a floor on your asking price. It’s important that you do a little research to find out what cars with similar mileage and condition are listed for in your area. Pricing a car too high can result in being ignored by buyers but pricing it too low can mean making less money on the deal.

3. Clean Your Car

Your car is going to appeal to more buyers if it is cleaned up. Just as you clean yourself up to make a good first impression, you want to do the same with your car. Wash the outside and don’t forget to shine the tires. You also want to vacuum and wipe down the interior.

4. Take Lots of Pictures

When selling a car online, pictures are worth a thousand words. Buyers want to see your car from every angle, inside and out. Make sure the pictures are taken in proper lighting and they are clear. Be sure to include multiple photos from every angle. Be sure to include plenty of pictures of the engine and undercarriage as well. Many online buyers won’t consider a car unless there are loads of photos to accompany the listing.

5. Include a Very Detailed Description

A car is a big purchase so people want to know exactly what they are getting. When it comes to selling a car online, information is valuable and the more you can offer, the better. People are going to have lots of questions regarding your car so take the time to research the make and model of your car and include as many details as possible. Be sure to include the mileage, the type of engine, what kind of gas mileage it gets, its safety features, all special features, and any other specifications regarding the vehicle. You should also include the VIN number so buyers can easily look up the vehicle’s history report. This will give buyers’ peace of mind about the vehicle.

6. Be Willing to Negotiate

When pricing your car, be mindful that most people are going to try and negotiate. Therefore, leave a little wiggle room for negotiating. Most buyers will also feel better about making the purchase if they feel like they are getting a good deal.

7. Offer Multiple Payment Options

If you plan to sell your vehicle online, electronic payment apps like Venmo, Zelle, and PayPal are increasingly common and make the transaction easy and convenient. Easy payment options can help finalize the sale before the buyer has a chance to reconsider.

The Comprehensive Guide to Gifting Vehicles

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Maybe you have a child that is graduating from school or a relative in need of a vehicle. It might even be that you know someone who is struggling financially and you would like to gift them a car. Whatever the reason, there may come a time when you would like to gift a car to someone else. Given that the process of gifting a vehicle is much different than buying one, it’s important to know the process of how it works and also understand the tax implications of giving a car to someone else.

Make Sure the Car is Paid For

You will not be able to gift a car or transfer a title unless you own the car. Therefore, if you have an outstanding balance on your car loan, you must pay it off completely before you can give the car as a gift. Be sure you obtain a copy of this final payment from your bank or dealer’s lending department to confirm the full payment.

Consider the Recipient’s Financial Situation

Even though you are gifting a car to someone else for no financial gain, you still need to go over the terms of the arrangement with the recipient. Make sure they understand that once you give them the car, they will be responsible for other costs such as gas, insurance, and maintenance. You also want to work out who will be paying the taxes and other fees associated with transferring the title. If the recipient is unable to afford the expenses associated with owning the car, you may want to reconsider your decision.

Be Prepared to Pay the Gift Tax

While there may be no sales tax, there may be a federal gift tax involved with gifting your vehicle. The requirements differ every year, but typically a gift tax is applicable when the fair market value of the vehicle exceeds $15,000 for a single person or $30,000 for a married couple. The gift tax can be anywhere between 18-40%.

Write Up a Bill of Sale

Without a formal bill of sale, there is no proof that someone else owns the car and you may still be liable. You can avoid any misunderstandings by writing up a bill of sale that includes the following information:

  • Make and model of the vehicle
  • Purchase price of the vehicle
  • VIN
  • Odometer reading
  • Your signature and the signature of the giftee

Transfer the Vehicle Title

You must transfer the vehicle title to officially release ownership of the vehicle. The easiest way to transfer the title is to go to your local DMV, fill out the necessary paperwork, and pay a transfer fee. At this time you will list the price of the car as gift. Since vehicle transfer laws and fees vary by state, you may need to familiarize yourself with this information before gifting your vehicle.

Make Sure the New Owner is Insured to Drive the Car

Now that you are ready to hand the keys over, you need to make sure the giftee is properly insured to drive the car. They will not be able to legally drive the car without insurance. If the giftee already has car insurance, they simply need to contact their insurance company to add this vehicle to their existing policy. If they do not have insurance, they will need to sign up for a new policy.