What Is Vehicle Transportation?
Vehicle transportation, also referred to as car shipping or auto transport, is a service offered by vehicle transportation companies that involves collecting your automobile from one location & transporting it to another. This service proves useful in numerous situations where operating the vehicle yourself is not practical, such as when purchasing or selling a used car online, relocating to a new residence, or shipping your automobile overseas. Vehicle transportation services provide a practical solution for individuals who require the relocation of their vehicles across states or even nations.
There exist various types of auto transport services available to accommodate different requirements and preferences. Whether you need cross-country vehicle transport or simply require shipping your automobile to another state, vehicle transportation companies offer options such as terminal-to-terminal auto delivery and door-to-door auto transport. Terminal-to-terminal delivery involves designated collection and drop-off points, frequently at the vehicle transport company's stores or operating bases, which can be more economical but necessitates additional effort on your part to retrieve your automobile. Conversely, door-to-door auto transport is a favored choice as it offers the convenience of having your vehicle collected & dropped off right at your doorstep.
Regarding the actual transportation method, vehicle shipping services generally fall into two categories: having someone operate your automobile to the destination or placing it on a trailer for transport. Employing a driver to move your vehicle can be a straightforward & cost-effective option, particularly for shorter distances. However, this method adds mileage to your automobile and carries a slight risk of damage during the journey, which may be a concern for those purchasing or selling vehicles online.
Alternatively, placing your automobile on a trailer ensures a higher level of safety during transport. Vehicle shipping trailers come in various options, depending on the value & size of your automobile. Single trailers, while more costly, are ideal for transporting expensive or classic cars that require extra protection. For the utmost security, shipping containers offer the safest way to transport a vehicle, albeit at a higher cost. Multi-car transporters, on the other hand, can accommodate several vehicles at once & come in two main variants: open vehicle shipping and enclosed auto transport.
Open vehicle shipping is the most affordable & common option, where your automobile is securely placed on an open carrier and driven to its destination. While this method exposes your car to the elements during transit, it remains a popular choice for many. Enclosed auto transport, in contrast, involves securing multiple cars on a carrier that is fully enclosed, protecting them from dust, weather, & debris. This option is preferable for more expensive or newer vehicles, where owners prioritize minimizing the risk of damage during transport.
For those needing to move their vehicles overseas, specialized auto transport companies with experience in international vehicle shipping can provide tailored advice & services to ensure a smooth process.
How Much Does It Cost To Transport A Vehicle?
The expense of transporting a vehicle varies depending on several factors, but on average, auto transport companies in the US charge around $2.92 per mile for journeys less than 200 miles, $0.93 for distances between 200 and 500 miles, & $0.78 for trips exceeding 1,000 miles. However, these figures are merely averages, & your actual vehicle transport cost may differ based on your specific circumstances.
To obtain an accurate estimate of your vehicle shipping expenses, it's best to gather quotes from multiple vehicle transport companies, which is easily done through platforms like Shiply. Understanding the factors that influence auto transport costs can help you anticipate whether your vehicle delivery will be expensive or affordable.
Distance plays a significant role in determining the cost of vehicle transport, with cross-state & cross-country journeys being more expensive than interstate vehicle delivery. However, the average price per mile decreases as the distance increases, ensuring that you don't pay excessively for longer trips. International shipping, on the other hand, always results in higher vehicle shipping quotes due to the logistics involved in transferring an automobile overseas & the distance it must travel. Special enclosed trailers or shipping containers may also be required for international auto transport.
The route taken by the vehicle carrier service can also impact pricing. Routes with known traffic congestion, such as those in LA, may cost more than quieter roads due to the additional time required. Unforeseen circumstances like major roadworks could also incur extra costs or necessitate a longer, alternative route.
Shipping dates & flexibility play a role in pricing as well. If you can be flexible with your timings, vehicle shipping services may charge less, as they can fit your automobile delivery into their schedule & reduce overheads. Conversely, expedited shipping within a strict timeframe typically costs more, as the vehicle transport company may need to dedicate a trailer & driver specifically for your delivery.
The size of your automobile, including its height, length, & width, affects the cost of transport. Larger vehicles like SUVs generally cost more to ship than sedans, as they require bigger trailers. It's crucial to inform the auto transport company about any accessories on your car, such as bike racks or roof racks, as they can alter the size of the trailer needed for the delivery.
The condition of your automobile is another factor to consider. If your car is not drivable, it may require extra equipment like a winch or forklift to load & unload it from the trailer, resulting in a higher auto transport cost. A car that can brake, roll, & steer is considered to be in good enough condition for easy shipping by most vehicle carriers.
The type of auto transport service you choose also influences the price. Having someone drive your car to its destination is the cheapest option, as you're essentially paying for the driver's time & fuel. Single car trailers & enclosed transport, on the other hand, are likely to be more expensive due to the specialized equipment required. Enclosed vehicle shipping is typically the most costly method, as it involves transporting your car alone while still needing specialized equipment for loading, unloading, & protection during transit.
The pickup & delivery locations can also affect the cost of shipping a vehicle. Urban areas usually have vehicle shipping services in close proximity, & common destination routes often offer cheap vehicle shipping. Rural deliveries, however, may cost more due to the extra mileage & deviations from normal routes required by the company. If the pickup or drop-off point is in an unusual or hard-to-access location, additional steps may be necessary to load your automobile, further increasing the vehicle shipping cost.
Auto transport insurance is another aspect to consider. While all auto transport companies must carry liability insurance, many do not offer additional coverage. If a vehicle transport company doesn't provide cargo insurance, it's highly recommended that you obtain supplementary insurance for your automobile during transit. When reviewing insurance policies, ensure that you understand what type of damage is covered, whether there is a deductible, which parts of the vehicle are included, & any other relevant details.
Lastly, the time of year can influence vehicle shipping prices. Winter tends to be the most expensive season to ship an automobile, as ice, snow, & blizzard conditions can cause delays & reduce the maximum speed at which vehicle delivery services can operate. December is often a challenging month for automobile shipping due to driver holidays, while January sees increased demand for transport to warmer states, leading to higher costs. February, however, is usually quiet, offering great rates from vehicle shipping services.
Spring is an ideal time to ship your automobile, with improved weather conditions, longer days, & more available drivers contributing to affordable rates & high availability. March typically offers better shipping rates than April or May, as there is often a rush to move cars from colder to warmer states during these months.
Summer is the peak season for shipping vehicles, with the longest days of the year, students traveling home from universities, employees taking vacations, & a popular time for moving houses. As a result, June, July, & August are busy months for the auto transport industry, & cheap vehicle shipping is less likely during this period.
Fall can be a good time to ship a vehicle if you're looking for slightly lower prices. Vehicle shipping companies are less busy, & there is generally more driver availability after the summer rush. However, October or November are better options than September, which is peak time for students shipping their cars to university.
How To Transport A Vehicle - Finding An Auto Transport Service
With a better understanding of vehicle shipping, the types of vehicle shipping services available, & the factors that influence auto transport costs, you're likely ready to find a vehicle transport service that meets your needs. However, with hundreds of vehicle transport companies in the market, searching for the best option at the best price can be overwhelming. Scrolling through countless pages on Google or sifting through phone books can be time-consuming, & many companies are reluctant to provide pricing without a personalized quote, requiring you to fill out details with each provider individually.
This is where Shiply can help simplify the process of finding auto transport companies. By filling out a simple form on Shiply, you can start collecting quotes from multiple providers. All you need to provide is the make & model of the vehicle that needs shipping, the pickup & delivery locations, & the dates you need to move the automobile. This information allows auto transport providers on Shiply to offer accurate quotes for your specific job.
Once your listing is live, you'll receive quotes in your Shiply inbox & via email. It's recommended to keep email notifications turned on so that you're immediately aware of new quotes. Quotes can start arriving within minutes of posting your listing, but it's advisable to wait for a few options before making a decision, giving you a range of choices to consider.
After receiving a few quotes, you can ask the providers any questions you may have, such as their availability (if a time frame is given), insurance coverage, & how they would secure your vehicle. It's crucial to ask these questions to any company you're considering to ensure a smooth & expected experience.
Shiply's feedback & ratings system is another valuable resource when selecting a vehicle shipping service. This system allows you to view previous customers' experiences with a company & assess their overall score, helping you make an informed decision.
Why People Often Move Vehicles To & From Olathe, Kansas
Olathe, Kansas, is a vibrant city located in the Kansas City metropolitan area. As a growing community with a strong economy, Olathe attracts many individuals & families who are relocating for work, education, or personal reasons. This influx of new residents often necessitates the need for vehicle shipping services to & from Olathe.
One of the primary reasons people move vehicles to Olathe is for employment opportunities. Olathe is home to several major corporations & businesses, including Garmin, Honeywell, & Farmers Insurance. As these companies expand & hire new employees, many individuals find themselves relocating to Olathe & requiring vehicle shipping services to transport their automobiles to their new home.
Education is another factor that drives vehicle shipping to & from Olathe. The city is home to MidAmerica Nazarene University & is in close proximity to other higher education institutions in the Kansas City area. Students attending these schools often need to ship their vehicles to Olathe at the beginning of the academic year & back home during breaks or upon graduation.
Family relocations also contribute to the demand for vehicle shipping services in Olathe. As families move to the city for various reasons, such as job transfers or a desire for a better quality of life, they often require assistance in transporting their automobiles to their new residence.
In addition to inbound vehicle shipping, there is also a need for outbound automobile transport from Olathe. Residents who are moving away from the city, whether for work, family, or other reasons, often seek vehicle shipping services to transport their automobiles to their new destination.
The presence of major highways & transportation infrastructure in & around Olathe makes it a convenient location for vehicle shipping companies to serve. With easy access to Interstate 35 & other major roads, auto transport providers can efficiently pick up & deliver vehicles to & from the city.
As Olathe continues to grow & attract new residents, the demand for vehicle shipping services in the area is likely to remain strong. Whether moving to the city for work, education, or personal reasons, or relocating away from Olathe, individuals & families can benefit from the convenience & expertise offered by professional vehicle shipping companies.
The Benefits of Utilizing Shiply for Vehicle Transport in Olathe
Time-Efficient - Instead of submitting a quotation request each time you require a precise cost for transporting your automobile, on our platform, you complete one form and can then receive estimates based on the information you provide from various companies. This could save you hours that you would have spent contacting companies and completing forms.
Communication with these businesses is also possible through our platform, allowing you to store all of your Olathe car shipping information in one location.
Cost Comparison
Ultimately, the price of the Olathe car shipping estimate is the most significant factor in choosing which auto transport company to employ to transport your vehicle. The challenging aspect is that, while most companies are willing to provide average prices and rough estimates, you won't actually receive a definite car transport quote without having to supply information and fill in details. While this is understandable, it means that price comparison and obtaining a car transport quote isn't exactly a simple task.
Utilizing Shiply enables you to obtain genuine, final price quotes from car shipping companies and compare them in one place, offering the ability to message them individually to ask any questions you may have and ultimately decide on the best company for you.
Affordable Car Shipping
Auto transport companies on Shiply are usually able to provide their services for a lower cost than if you went directly to them. This is because they are often seeking to fill space on trips they are already making and have already invested the cost for. For example, if you were relocating from Los Angeles to New York and needed to transport your car there, a company on Shiply may already have a multi-car transporter making that journey with 5 of the 6 spots filled, and they are just looking to ensure they are not wasting any space. As long as the dates, times, and pick-up/drop-off locations are convenient for you, you can often save up to 75% on auto transport by using our service.
Environmentally Friendly
Not only is using Shiply for auto transport more economical, but it is also more environmentally friendly! In the above example, if your car didn't get on that multi-car transporter and instead, you arranged transport from a separate car shipper, then the emissions into the atmosphere would have doubled as another entire journey would be needed just for your car.
Similarly, many car transporters return from a delivery empty-handed, which is not only expensive for them but also for the environment as there are many people who could have used that transporter to move their cars in the opposite direction! Many of the auto transporters on Shiply are also looking to fill their trailers on return journeys, meaning even less wasted CO2 is being released into the atmosphere, as well as continued affordable transport for our users.
Readying Your Car for Shipping
If you have selected an auto transport company to transport your car and feel confident using them, then it's time to prepare your car for shipping. We suggest following these steps:
Documents - It is crucial to ensure that any necessary documents are available at pick up or drop off, especially if you are selling your vehicle.
Cleaning - You should take care to remove all personal belongings from your vehicle prior to shipping, for the obvious reason that you don't want to risk them getting lost or damaged in transit. It is also highly recommended that you clean your vehicle before transport as this will allow you to determine its condition and notice any damages that may occur during delivery.
Running Condition - If the vehicle will be driven at any point during shipping or driven home from the drop-off location, then you should ensure that it is in running condition. This means ensuring that there is enough fluid, as well as checking battery charge and tire pressure levels. Again, this can also help you better assess the condition of the vehicle upon arrival.
Photographic Evidence - One very important thing to do when preparing your vehicle for the car delivery service to pick up is to take high-quality photographs of all parts of the car. This provides you with evidence of the car's condition before shipping should anything happen to it during transport.
What to Do After Delivery
Once the car shipping company you selected has completed their delivery, there are a few things you should do:
Check Vital Signs - Lights, brakes, and engines should all be checked immediately to ensure that the car is in the expected condition, as well as enable you to immediately raise concerns with the car delivery service should anything not be working as it should.
Exterior Condition - You can compare the exterior of the vehicle to the photos taken of it before to determine whether any extra damage has occurred. Shipping a car can, in rare cases, cause damage, and you want to be sure your car transport service has not done so.
Check Mileage - This is more relevant to car shipping services where the car is driven to the destination, but it can help to check the mileage to ensure that it matches up with the journey taken.
We would greatly appreciate it if you could also leave a review for the auto transport company you used through Shiply so that others can browse car shipping services with the same peace of mind.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Below we have answered some of the most asked questions about car shipping:
How much to ship a car? Car shipping prices can vary drastically depending on the circumstances, but on average, a journey should cost you around $2.92 per mile if the journey is less than 200 miles, $0.93 if the journey is between 200 and 500 miles, and if the journey is over 1,000 miles, then this drops to $0.78.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car? Having someone drive your vehicle to its destination is the cheapest way to ship a car; however, if you need a trailer, then a multi-car transporter will be your best option with regard to the cheapest way to ship a car.
How do I pay for my auto transport? This is down to each individual auto transport company on Shiply and is something you should discuss with your chosen car delivery service before confirming the delivery. Most companies will be flexible with payment options, however.
Can I track my car transport online? Each car shipping company on Shiply has different ways of operating, but many offer the ability to track your car shipment, with some even able to provide personal updates. If you require tracking, you should message individual car transport companies to confirm that this is possible with them.
Does someone have to be present for pickup and delivery? In most cases, the car shipping company will require you to be in attendance for the pickup and delivery of the vehicle. This is because there are likely to be release forms that you need to sign, as well as handing over the car keys.
Can I keep items in my vehicle during my car shipment? Most car transport companies will be fine with you keeping some personal items in the vehicle when it is transported. However, there are two important things to remember: 1. The weight of the items may affect the price of the vehicle shipment, and 2. Any items in the vehicle will not be covered by insurance for the transport of the car itself.
How much gas should I have in my vehicle during transit? Generally, you should aim to have around a quarter of your tank full. This allows for easy loading and unloading of the vehicle but will not add too much extra weight to the vehicle.
Can I ship my vehicle if it isn't running? You can ship your vehicle if it isn't in running condition; however, this will be more expensive as specialist equipment is required to load and unload the vehicle.
Can I ship a modified vehicle? Almost any type of vehicle is able to be shipped on Shiply, with hundreds of transport providers available to bid on your job, there will always be someone that is up for the job and has the right equipment to safely carry it out.
