What’s the Cheapest Way to Ship My Car?

Whether you are moving to another state or you have purchased a car from another state, you may find yourself in need of auto shipping. Since this is not something people do very often, auto shipping can be a bit confusing to the average person. Not to mention the fact that there are several variables that can affect pricing. Car shipping prices fluctuate often and there are companies out there that offer a low initial quote but tack on loads of fees at the end. This can make it tricky to know how much you should be paying for auto shipping and finding a company that offers competitive prices. As you shop around for rates, consider the following tips for finding the most affordable way to ship your car. 

Do Your Research and Get Multiple Quotes

One of the best ways to get a low price for auto shipping is to get multiple quotes. It is recommended that you get at least 3-4 quotes so you can get an idea of the fair market price to ship your vehicle. Do beware of the lowest quote, however, as this can often be a red flag.  It’s important to ask the right questions to ensure the company will not be adding additional fees and charges to your final bill. Furthermore, you want to make sure the company is reputable so be sure and check reviews. 

Choose Open Transport

Some companies will offer the option of either shipping your car on an open carrier or an enclosed carrier. While an enclosed carrier certainly offers additional protection for your vehicle, it also comes at a higher price. Enclosed transport is recommended for luxury, antique, or classic cars that require additional protection. If you are looking for the cheapest option, your best bet is to select open transport. 

Be Flexible with Timing

Another great way to save money on auto shipment is to have flexibility with delivery dates. If you require a quick delivery, you can expect to pay a premium price. On the other hand, you can save money if you are willing to wait as long as it takes for the carrier to get your vehicle from one location to another. 

Choose Terminal to Terminal Shipping

While door to door shipping is undoubtedly convenient, it also increases the price. The cheapest way to ship a car is between terminals of two larger cities. If you live in a remote area that is far from a major city interstate, you will pay a premium price for delivery. You can generally save hundreds of dollars by choosing the nearest terminal to your location. 

Ship During the Off Season

Just like many other industries, auto shipment has a busy season as well. The busiest months for auto shipment are June-August so you can expect to pay higher prices during these months. You can save money by shipping your car during the slowest months which are December-February.