Auto shipment has become increasingly popular, and for good reason. It’s a convenient way to get your vehicle from one state to another without the hassle of driving a long distance. If you are in need of transporting your car from Oregon to California, you might be wondering how much it will cost. There is no way to get an exact price without considering several factors. Here are some of the main factors that will determine your shipping cost as well as tips for saving money. 

Type of Vehicle

Auto carriers have to follow strict guidelines regarding the weight of their freight. Since larger vehicles are heavier, the carrier will be able to transport fewer vehicles, resulting in a higher price. You can expect to pay more for large trucks, vans, and SUV’s than sedans and compact cars. 

Mode of Transport

Most auto shipping companies will give you the choice between shipping your car on an open or enclosed carrier. While there are pros and cons to each, the price will be higher for an enclosed carrier. That said, enclosed carriers provide more protection and are an ideal choice for luxury or antique vehicles. 

Pickup and Delivery Locations

As one might expect, it is cheaper to ship a car between two major cities than it is to ship to remote locations. While door-to-door delivery is certainly a convenient option, you can expect to pay more for this service. You can save money by choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping, whereas you drop off and pick up your vehicle at a terminal along the carrier’s route. 

Condition of the Car

A running vehicle is always more affordable to ship than a car that is not in running condition. Since an inoperable vehicle requires special equipment for lifting it on and off the carrier, it can increase your shipping cost significantly. Your best bet is to visit a mechanic and make sure your car is running properly prior to shipment. 

Timeline of Delivery

If you need your car picked up and delivered in a short period of time, the cost will increase significantly. Expedited delivery is more expensive because the carrier might have to make changes to their schedule in order to deliver your vehicle. If you aren’t in a hurry, you can save money by having a flexible timeline for delivery. 

As you can see, there are several factors that go into determining the cost of shipping your car. While there are some factors that are out of your control, there are still several things you can do to save money on auto shipping. The most important thing you can do, however, is research shipping companies to find an auto carrier that is trusted and reliable. After all, your car is a valuable asset so you want to make sure it is in good hands as it is transported from Oregon to California.