This question, How does car shipping affect resale value? is an important one, whether you are planning to sell your car in the near future, or want to protect the long-term value of your investment. An increasing number of consumers use car shipping services when moving or purchasing a car out of state.
There are a number of factors that determine a vehicle’s value. More than most people think, shipping a vehicle can have an important influence on its long-term value. It also can make a big difference in helping to preserve a vehicle’s condition and resale value. Poor handling, lack of insurance, or choosing the wrong carrier can result in negative outcomes.
In this article, we’ll cover what you need to know about the impact of car shipping on resale value, the risks involved in shipping, and why you should use an experienced car shipping company like Car-Transport24.com.
How Professional Car Shipping Protects Resale Value
People usually consider physical appearance first in the reselling of cars. Resale value depends on paint quality. Resale value depends on mileage. Resale value depends on if the car is structurally sound. Resale value depends on its overall condition. Professional auto shipping avoids these issues for you.
Here’s how:
Eliminates Extra Mileage That Hurts Value
Single vehicles may travel multiple thousands of miles, between states. High mileage is one of the most important factors that drives resale values of the car. The following are affected:
- Newer models
- Electric cars
- Luxury and exotic vehicles
- Lease returns
Shipping also adds little mileage to the car and keeps it closer to stock.
Prevents Mechanical Wear and Tear
Long-distance driving puts stress on:
- Brakes
- Tires
- Transmission
- Engine components
Shipping the vehicle avoids any premature wear detectable by those inspecting or test driving the vehicles.
Reduces Risk of Road Hazards
Highways can expose vehicles to:
- Debris impacts
- Weather damage
- Accident risks
- Rock chips
- Windshield cracks
These problems are avoided with enclosed shipping, and even with open shipping, it is likely safer than a long drive.
Avoids Interior Damage and Overuse
Road trips often cause:
- Seat wear
- Dashboard fading
- Increased cabin odors
- Spills
Shipping eliminates this risk entirely.
Professional auto transport is sometimes necessary, especially through an established and reputable company in order to preserve vehicle condition and value.
When Shipping Can Negatively Affect Resale Value
Shipping is generally safer than driving long distances, though poor decisions when shipping can cause problems.
Note these potential hazards:
Choosing an Underinsured or Unqualified Carrier
However, damage incurred on the journey could lower the resale value of your vehicle if the carrier does not offer adequate insurance. Always verify:
- Cargo insurance limits
- Claim procedures
- Coverage for aftermarket parts
Not Documenting Pre-Shipping Condition
You may be unable to prove that the damage occurred while in transit without photos taken prior to shipping.
Using the Wrong Shipping Method
Some vehicles that must be enclosed:
- Luxury or exotic models
- Classic or vintage cars
- Highly modified vehicles
Open trailer shipping exposes a vehicle to uninvited hazards, particularly with regard to delicate vehicles.
Poor Loading or Securing
Untrained carriers may not properly strap down/load a vehicle:
- Scratches
- Undercarriage damage
- Misalignment
- Interior scuffs
These issues have a negative effect on resale value and often need repairs that cost a lot.
Working with an established transport company can minimize this risk.
Shipping vs. Driving: Which Helps Resale Value More?
So if someone tries to determine whether to ship a car or drive the car, think about the long-term value of your vehicle.
Driving Long Distances Can Decrease Value
Driving contributes to:
- Mileage depreciation
- Wear on moving parts
- Exposure to road conditions
- Increased risk of accidents
This can hurt resale value at even a short term, especially on luxury automobile manufacturers.
Shipping Helps Preserve Condition
Shipping is better when:
- You’re moving across multiple states
- The vehicle is new or high-value
- You want to avoid mileage
- You want to maintain exterior condition
- You plan to sell soon
Most dealers and collectors will therefore use transport services.
How Buyers Perceive Transported Vehicles
It is also rare for vehicle buyers to argue with professionals who ship vehicles to them, since it is viewed as:
- Well cared for
- Not subjected to long-distance road wear
- Protected during relocation
- Kept in clean, preserved condition
Buyers appreciate you keeping copies of shipping records, inspections, and condition reports as documentation.
Some buyers even prefer vehicles which have been shipped, as opposed to those which have been driven.
Tips to Ensure Shipping Does Not Hurt Resale Value
These are the best practices for shipping that should maintain, or improve, your vehicle’s resale value.
Choose a Reputable Company
Look for:
- Verified reviews
- DOT and MC numbers
- Transparent pricing
- Strong insurance coverage
Request Enclosed Transport for Sensitive Vehicles
For luxury, rare, or newly detailed vehicles, enclosed transport may be a better option.
Document Condition Before Pickup
Capture photos of:
- Exterior
- Interior
- Undercarriage
- Engine bay
- Wheels
These protect you if someone attempts to claim damages.
Ask About Inspection Reports
Most reputable transport companies provide:
- Pre-pickup inspection
- Delivery inspection
- Copies for your records
They provide transparency for resales.
Keep All Transport Documentation
Your records give a more accurate history for the next buyer, and increase buyer confidence.
Why Choose Car-Transport24.com?
When it comes to maintaining your car’s resale value, there’s no substitute for experience. Here’s why you should choose Car-Transport24.com:
- Professional, vetted drivers
- Full insurance protection
- Options for open or enclosed transport
- Secure vehicle handling
- Accurate inspection reports
- Nationwide pickup and delivery
- Transparent communication
We know that shipping can affect resale value, so we treat each vehicle as an investment that must be protected.
Final Thoughts
So, how does car shipping affect resale value? Well, if you choose a safe and insured transport company, it may help you preserve resale value by avoiding additional mileage, wear and tear, and road hazards. Using the right shipping method and documentation, and getting the proper insurance can help you get the most value when selling.
If you want to get your car from point A to point B in the best condition possible, you should be using Car-Transport24.com. Your car is precious and should be treated with care.
