Before shipping your car long distance, you should know the different types of transport options available. Some of the options include enclosed auto transport, rail freight, air transport, and expedited or priority service. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each type of transport. The best option for your car will depend on its size, condition, and location. However, there are some common issues you should be aware of before you choose a transport option.
Enclosed Auto Transport
When it comes to shipping your vehicle, enclosed long distance vehicle transport options are a great choice. Not only does enclosed transport protect your vehicle from weather elements, but it also provides added coverage for your vehicle while it is being transported. With enclosed auto transport, your car will arrive in the same condition it was in before it was packed and transported. It can accommodate up to six or seven vehicles at one time. Enclosed carriers also offer extra coverage for your car’s insurance, if necessary. When considering the cost of enclosed long distance car transport, keep in mind that it is much more expensive than open auto transport.
Open Auto Transport
Open auto transport, on the other hand, is the most affordable option. Whether you are shipping a luxury car or simply moving to a new town, this option offers many benefits. It is more efficient to load and unload cars and the carriers can be raised and lowered to accommodate a variety of differing heights on vehicles. The flexibility with depot-to-depot or door-to-door is available to suit customer needs and can prove to have potential cost savings. However, open auto transport is in high demand, so you might not be able to choose your preferred pick-up date in advance, if you require specific dates, there may be an additional fee involved. If you’re shipping your car for a special occasion, like participating in a car show, or buying an exotic or rare automobile, enclosed vehicle transport is the best solution for the added protection and peace of mind.
Rail Freight
In some cases, rail freight can be the best choice for long-distance vehicle transport, particularly when the cost is less and the time taken is quicker. However, rail transportation has its drawbacks, they can pass multiple destinations, be left overnight at facilities and be a target for vandals. Although rail transport is not the cheapest option, it is considered one of the most cost-effective modes of transportation for long distance and can offer additional protection from external elements. Trains can move large quantities at once, and they also have lower cost-per-ton-mile than trucks. They are also much more efficient, requiring less energy and a lot less time. For example, a single train can carry the equivalent of about 150 trucks.
Air Transport
Whether you need to move your car across the country or across the world, you may be considering shipping it. It will depend on your budget and the time you have to ship your vehicle. While air transport may seem like the obvious option, it also has certain advantages and disadvantages. The plus side, the quickest way to move a vehicle between countries and is generally for those who are willing to pay for the service. Road shipment is significantly cheaper than air shipment, but there are some important things to consider before selecting a transportation mode. For instance, road shipping has less physical limitations than air shipping. Roads also have widespread coverage. Auto transporters can travel to most destinations, and they can also reach remote locations. Roads do, however, incur maintenance costs that must be offloaded from the consignment price. For this reason, road transport may be a better option for expensive cars.
Priority or Expedited Service
While traditional car transportation services will often give you a window in which to expect your pick-up, a priority or expedited long-distance vehicle transport service will locate a driver for your vehicle in the shortest amount of time. Some companies can find a driver for your vehicle and to do the driving for you and meet you at your destination. Additional fees are usually required including meals, accomodation and flights back home for the driver. This is a popular option for vehicles towing caravans over long distance. In addition to offering the fastest service, expedited auto transport options allow you to choose pick-up and drop-off locations. This means that you don’t have to worry about crowded roads and other vehicles in the process. You can also choose a carrier that will provide you with recommendations on the shortest route for your vehicle’s type of transport. Regardless of your reason, you can rest assured that your car will arrive on time!
Cost
The cost of long distance vehicle transport depends on many factors. The time of year is important as climate can affect the rate of car shipping. Early winter is the cheapest month to ship your car, since fewer people are traveling. However, spring and summer months are expensive, as many people are on holidays and take the time to move between properties. During the summer months, demand for car carriers is at its highest. Also, carriers charge higher rates for oversized vehicles. This is because the bigger the load, the more space it needs, and it takes up more space.