Moving across the country is a big task, and one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how to transport your vehicle. Driving your car thousands of miles can be exhausting, time-consuming, and potentially damaging to your vehicle. Instead, shipping your car for a cross-country move is a smart, stress-free alternative that allows you to focus on other aspects of your relocation.
Ship A Car, Inc. offers a streamlined process for cross-country moves, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to ship a car for a cross-country move, including choosing the right transport option, preparing your vehicle, and tracking its journey.
When shipping a car for a cross-country move, selecting the right transport method is crucial. There are two primary options: open transport and enclosed transport.
Open Transport Open transport is the most common and cost-effective way to ship a car for a cross-country move. Your vehicle will be loaded onto an open trailer along with several other cars. While this option is safe and reliable, your car will be exposed to weather conditions and road debris.
Enclosed Transport If you’re transporting a luxury, classic, or high-value vehicle, enclosed transport provides additional protection. Your car will be placed in a fully enclosed trailer, shielding it from the elements and potential damage. Although this option is more expensive, it offers superior security for high-end vehicles.
Properly preparing your car before shipping ensures a smooth transport process. Follow these key steps:
- Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Clean: If you wash your vehicle, it will be much simpler to check it before it is shipped, and you will be able to more easily identify any existing dents or scratches.
- Remove Personal Belongings: Due to safety rules, the majority of organizations that transport automobiles, including Ship A Car, Inc., do not permit the transportation of personal goods inside the car. Nevertheless, we are aware that there are instances in which this is not feasible. If you need to place things inside the car while it is being transported, you must make sure to inform the person in charge of transportation that the items are stored in the trunk and that they weigh less than one hundred pounds.
- Check for Leaks and Mechanical Issues: Check to see that your vehicle is in good operational condition. If there are any leaks, you should get them rectified before the shipment is made.
- Disable Alarm Systems: Turning off automobile alarms will help you avoid disruptions that aren’t essential while you’re being transported.
- Leave a Quarter Tank of Gas: It is adequate to have a modest amount of fuel in the tank for loading and unloading, but having a smaller amount lowers the total weight of the vehicle.
Several factors determine the cost to ship a car for a cross-country move, including the following:
- The Distance: In most cases, the expenses of transportation are increased when the distance is greater.
- The Vehicle Type and Size: Larger and heavier vehicles cost more to transport.
- The Transport Method: The cost of enclosed transportation is higher than that of open transportation.
- The Time of Year – Seasonality: Prices may fluctuate depending on demand, with summer and winter holidays often being peak seasons.
- Pickup and Drop-off Locations: As a result of their greater accessibility, urban regions are often more affordable than rural places.
Here at Ship A Car, Inc., we guarantee complete transparency throughout the whole process by providing upfront pricing that does not include any hidden expenses.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car for a Cross-Country Move?
The duration of your car shipment depends on several factors, including the distance, weather conditions, and traffic. Generally, a cross-country move can take anywhere from 7 to 10 days. Expedited shipping is available for those who need their car delivered faster.
When shipping a car for a cross-country move, some routes are more common due to high demand, urban connectivity, and frequent relocations. Here are the top four cross-country car shipping routes in the United States:
1. New York to California Car Shipping
This is one of the most popular routes, as people frequently move between the East and West Coasts for work, education, or lifestyle changes. Shipping a car from New York to California covers over 2,800 miles and typically takes about 7-10 days.
2. Florida to Texas Car Shipping
Many retirees, military personnel, and professionals relocate between Florida and Texas, making it a highly trafficked route. This route spans around 1,300 miles and takes approximately 5-7 days for vehicle transport.
3. Illinois to Arizona Car Shipping
Snowbirds frequently travel from the Midwest to warmer states like Arizona. This route, which covers about 1,700 miles, is particularly popular during the winter months as people move south to escape the cold.
4. Washington to Florida Car Shipping
This cross-country route is significant due to military relocations and business moves between the Pacific Northwest and the Southeast. Covering roughly 3,000 miles, shipping along this route can take around 8-12 days depending on weather conditions and demand.
Choosing a well-traveled route can often result in more availability and competitive pricing for vehicle transport services.
Ship A Car, Inc. has been shipping vehicles cross-country since 2012, earning a reputation as the most reliable and trusted auto transport company in the U.S. Our satisfied customers return time and time again because we provide outstanding service, transparent pricing, and guaranteed safe delivery.
Make your move stress-free today! Call us at (866) 821-4555 or use our auto transport calculator to get an instant price quote. Secure your transport with Ship A Car, Inc. and experience seamless, reliable service.
Q: How far in advance should I book my car shipment?
A: It’s best to book at least one to two weeks in advance to secure your preferred shipping dates. However, expedited shipping options are available for last-minute moves.
Q: Can I ship personal belongings in my car?
A: Most transport companies, including Ship A Car, Inc., recommend not leaving personal items in the car for safety and regulatory reasons.
Q: Is my vehicle insured during transport?
A: Yes! Ship A Car, Inc. provides full insurance coverage for your vehicle while it’s in transit.
Q: Can I ship my car if it’s inoperable?
A: Yes, we can transport inoperable vehicles. However, additional fees may apply for the necessary equipment to load and unload the car.
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept various payment methods, including major credit cards, electronic transfers, PayPal, Crypto and certified checks.
