A car is the gateway to many paths in the world, which is meant both figuratively and literally. Think about it, how many people- especially currently, own a car? How many people drive? To say that the answer is ‘a lot’ would be a severe understatement, even if it was right. According to recent statistics, there are over 230 million drivers in the United States alone (see more here), and that number is only certain to become bigger.
Owning a car is the new norm today, and the means to drive is becoming more of a necessity and less of a commodity., some can be tired of driving over long distances, especially during a distant move across state lines. But there is a solution to this dilemma, and that solution is car shipping.
Sounds simple right? Would you believe it was as simple as it sounds? The idea of shipping an entire vehicle across the country may seem like quite a challenging task. But if you have the right information, and the proper means, this challenge will be trivial. It doesn’t matter if you’re relocating, or even selling and buying, the process detailed in this article will be sure to avail you of your worries.
Why Ship Your Car?
So why would you want to ship your car? Two words: convenience and cost. Driving over long distances can be quite a costly endeavor, in terms of money and energy. Gas, meals, hotel or motel stays, and your health after driving for hours upon hours nonstop, are just a few of the many hurdles that driving across the country will bring. Additionally, long-distance driving can significantly wear down your vehicle, increasing maintenance costs. The Cross Country Car Shipping Guide can be a hassle-free and convenient alternative and can save you time and money, not to mention your sanity.
Steps to Shipping Your Car
Step 1: Choose the Right Company
The first step is finding a company that can ship cars. Research different car shipping companies. Find reviews and read customer feedback; all of this helps give you insight into the company’s business and reputation. And this is all very important when it comes to making your decision.
Step 2: Preparing Your Car for Shipping
Once you find the company you’re looking for, you must prepare your car for shipping. To do that, you ensure it’s in the proper condition to ship. This includes cleaning the car, both inside and out, to ensure it is presentable. Make sure that the interior and exterior of the car are to your satisfaction, and that of the customer if you are the one selling. Any damage you see, make sure it is documented and put on record so that you are prepared for any potential disputes during transport.
Step 3: Scheduling
Plan your date to ship well in advance. You will likely have to coordinate with the shipping company and/or customer to ensure a suitable time for delivery. Make sure the delivery/drop off point is also settled as well so that there are no detours or accidental destinations different from what was stated.
Step 4: Tracking
It’s a big plus if a company offers you the means to track your car while it’s on the way. Knowing where it is at all times and having a constant means of communication between the shipper and yourself, can offer you safety and peace of mind. Be in touch with the car shipper and see if they have tracking and email services that are available for you to use.
Step 5: Receiving and Inspection
Once the car has arrived, inspect its condition thoroughly. Compare its state now to the photos in the listing and be sure that they match. As stated earlier, if there are any hints of damage or deformities after the fact, be sure to list them and report them to seek proper compensation from the company.
- Report Damage: If you see any new damage, report it immediately. Document with photos and contact the company for resolution.
- Sign the Bill of Lading: This serves as proof of the delivery being completed. Sign it only after ensuring that the car is in the same condition as when it was first shipped.
Learn more about the Bill of Lading here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_of_lading
Conclusion
You now know, and you have the means. Do you feel confident enough to invest in car shipping? It is a convenient method, and even more so, a better one when compared to braving the countless highways and traffic stops that lie in wait between you and your destination. It may seem like a hoax, or a trick, but don’t let yourself be fooled. Car shipping, like any shipping, is a service that guarantees great service and prompt delivery.