How Long Does Auto Transport Companies Take to Deliver a Car
Transporting a car can be a convenient and efficient way to move your vehicle from one location to another. Whether you’re relocating to a new city or purchasing a vehicle from a different state, utilizing the services of an auto transport company can save you time and effort. However, one of the common concerns among individuals looking to transport their vehicles is the duration it takes auto transport companies to deliver a car.
This table offers a general idea of transit times based on distance. It’s an estimate, as factors like carrier availability and seasonality can influence the timeframe.
| Distance (miles) | Estimated Transit Time |
| 0-500 | 1-3 business days |
| 500-1000 | 2-4 business days |
| 1000-1500 | 3-5 business days |
| 1500-2000 | 4-6 business days |
| 2000-2500 | 5-7 business days |
| 2500-3000 | 6-8 business days |
| 3000+miles | 10-12 business days |
Car Shipping Process
Car shipping is a process that involves transporting vehicles from one location to another using the services of an auto transport company. Whether you’re moving to a new city, buying a car from a different state, or sending a vehicle to someone else, understanding the car shipping process can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
In this article, we will guide you through the key steps involved in shipping a car:
Research and Select an Auto Transport Company
Start by researching reputable auto transport companies and comparing their services, prices, and customer reviews. Choose a company that meets your requirements and has a good track record.
Contact the chosen auto transport company to request a quote. Provide them with details such as the pickup and delivery locations, type of vehicle, and desired shipping dates.
Decide whether you want to transport your car via open transport or enclosed transport. Open transport is more common and affordable, while enclosed transport provides additional protection for high-value or classic vehicles.
Once you have chosen the transport type and received a quote, book the service with the auto transport company. They will provide you with further instructions and information.
Before the scheduled pickup, prepare your vehicle for transport. Clean it thoroughly, remove personal belongings, and take pictures of any existing damages for documentation purposes.
The auto transport company will arrange for a carrier to pick up your vehicle from the designated location. During pickup, both you and the carrier will inspect the car and document its condition.
The carrier will transport your vehicle to the destination. Many auto transport companies provide tracking services, allowing you to monitor the progress of your car during transit.
Once the carrier arrives at the destination, thoroughly inspect your vehicle for any damages that may have occurred during transit. Note any issues on the inspection report.
Pay the remaining balance to the auto transport company as per the agreed terms and conditions.
With the car shipping process complete, you can now enjoy your transported vehicle at the new location.
By following these steps and working with a reputable auto transport company, you can ensure a smooth and reliable car shipping process from start to finish. Remember to communicate clearly, ask any questions you may have, and stay updated on the progress of your vehicle’s journey.
How long it takes to ship a car
| Montana | Nebraska |
|---|---|
| Nevada | New Hampshire |
| New Mexico | New York |
| North Carolina | North Dakota |
| Oregon | Oklahoma |
| Pennsylvania | Rhode Island |
| Wisconsin | West Virginia |
| Vermont | Virginia |
| Tennessee | Texas |
| Washington | Utah |
| South Dakota | South Carolina |
| Ohio | Wyoming |
Open Carrier Auto Transport System:
You’ve probably seen open transport carriers on the road with a trailer with double or triple racks that allow vehicles to be stacked for transportation. This is the most prevalent mode of automobile transportation, and it is frequently seen with new cars on their journey from the manufacturer to dealerships. Because it is efficient and the most cost-effective mode of auto shipping.
The popularity of open carrier shipping stems from its affordability. By sharing space on the carrier with other vehicles, you benefit from a lower cost compared to individual car transport or even driving yourself.
Enclosed Shipments:
The cars are moved in a covered carrier. The benefit of this arrangement is total peace of mind that comes with total security when they ship enclosed.
During the transfer process, your classic car or costly vehicle will never be exposed to the elements. Your vehicle will be completely encased, protecting it from the climate as well as trash and boulders thrown upon the highway.
Enclosed car shipment ensures the highest level of security while in transit. Nobody has access to your precious automobile.
Read Also: How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car.
Other features of their services are:
To hire the services of an auto shipping company one has to contact them through phone, email, or their website. They take the delivery of automobile from your doorstep and deliver it to the destination. The delivery time depends on the distance of the destination location. The vehicle is covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance.
Some of the shipping companies provide the facility of live tracking of their carrier carrying the automobiles.
Key Factors Affecting Delivery Time & Cost
- Distance
The distance between the origin and destination plays a significant role in car shipping costs. Longer distances usually result in higher shipping expenses. - Vehicle size and weight
The size and weight of the vehicle being shipped can impact the cost. Larger and heavier vehicles may require specialized carriers or equipment, which can increase the overall shipping price. - Shipping method
There are various shipping methods available, such as open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport, where the vehicle is exposed to the elements, is generally less expensive than enclosed transport, which provides more protection. - Pickup and delivery locations
The accessibility of the pickup and delivery locations can affect the cost and availability of car shipping services. Remote or less accessible areas may have limited carrier availability, potentially leading to higher costs. - Season and demand
The time of year and market demand can influence car shipping prices. Peak seasons, such as summer when many people relocate, often have higher demand and prices. - Insurance coverage
The level of insurance coverage during transit can affect the shipping cost. Choosing higher insurance coverage may increase the overall price. - Company Efficiency:
Different auto transport companies have varying levels of efficiency in scheduling pickups, deliveries, and overall route planning. It’s wise to compare quotes and reviews to get a sense of a company’s typical turnaround times.
Conclusion
Car shipping offers a convenient and safe way to move your vehicle. Partnering with a reputable company and understanding key factors (distance, seasonality, etc.) sets realistic expectations. Trust the professionals for a smooth car shipping experience!
FAQ’s
How long does it take for a car to be delivered by an auto transport company?
The delivery time for a car can vary depending on factors like distance, location accessibility, seasonal demand, and transport type. On average, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for the car to be delivered.
Can I track the progress of my car during transport?
Many auto transport companies provide tracking services that allow you to monitor the progress of your car during transit. You can stay updated on the whereabouts of your vehicle by using the tracking information provided by the company.
Should I choose open transport or enclosed transport for my car?
The choice between open transport and enclosed transport depends on your specific needs and preferences. Open transport is more common and cost-effective, suitable for most standard vehicles. Enclosed transport offers additional protection, making it ideal for high-value or classic cars.
What should I do before handing over my car for shipping?
Before the pickup, it’s important to prepare your vehicle. Clean it thoroughly, remove personal belongings, and take pictures of any existing damages for documentation. Ensure the car is in a drivable condition and has a sufficient amount of fuel.
What should I do if there are damages to my car upon delivery?
Upon delivery, carefully inspect your car for any damages that may have occurred during transit. Note any issues on the inspection report and communicate them with the auto transport company immediately. They will guide you through the necessary steps to address the situation and resolve any concerns.
a4AutoTransport is a group of auto transport researchers and experts that comes in handy for anyone who wants to move their car/vehicle without putting extra miles on the odometer. At a4AutoTransport, We researched over a hundred car shipping companies, interviewed real customers and industry leaders, and collected nearly 500 quotes to find the nation’s best auto transport companies. With our combined 5 years of industry experience and research, we’ll help you find the right car shipper for your budget.
