The whole moving logistics can get a bit burdensome, but moving into a new house is exciting! Moving furniture and clothes are often given priority over shipping the car. When transporting your vehicle across the country or internationally, the right time to ship your car is vital to a seamless experience. If you plan the shipping of your vehicle ahead of time, you will not have to face extra hassle at the time of the move. This guide will help you accomplish just that.
Shipping my car is necessary for what reason?
Last-minute car shipping is something you shouldn’t do. Your vehicle shipment will arrive at your new address on time and as scheduled, provided you make an official request. When you plan ahead, you can select the best shipping method and make sure your vehicle is ready when you arrive. Here are some explanations for why timing matters.
Avoids postponements
Companies get booked weeks in advance during peak moving season. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your car shipment as you may pay more or experience delays due to availability.
Offers complete flexibility in choosing transport
You get additional room to make your choice regarding delivery options. The season you relocate in can affect the cost you will pay for the moving service and the options available to you. For instance, if you are relocating during the busy season, booking early means you won’t be stuck taking the first option available while paying more for expedited shipping or something similar.
Lessen Deceit
When you plan your car shipment ahead of time, it will help you check off one more item on your ‘to-do’ list as you get closer to your move. You can concentrate on other matters, such as organizing your new house and belongings, with this help.
When should you ship your vehicle before moving?
The timing of when you should ship your car before your move depends on the distance, timing and availability of car shipping to your destination. Here is an estimated schedule for when you should ship your car.
If your moving date is quite some days way, and you are shipping your car across the country or internationally, then you should start arranging your shipping at least two to three weeks in advance.
Paraphrasing
It allows you ample time to compare quotes, select the best transport option, and avoid last-minute scheduling problems. Moving overseas could require you of additional time, particularly for customs paperwork and rules.
For short-range moves (in the same locality)
If you are moving to a different area but staying within the same region, you would likely only have to ship your car 1 to 2 weeks early. When you’re moving during a peak time, like summer or end-of-month, try to book sooner when availability isn’t becoming scarce.
During the busiest moving season (Summer and Holidays)
Car shipping services can be swamped during peak moving season such as summer months or holidays. In case you plan to move in this time, you must book your car shipment 3 to 4 weeks in advance so that the delivery is on time and high rates can be avoided.
Expedited shipping
If you are moving under a deadline and need your car shipped expeditiously, expedited car shipping services are available. With expedited shipping, you can expect it to cost more and if you do, there are more logistics involved.
What things to remember before shipping your vehicle?
When planning to ship your car, there are several items that can impact the timing and cost of that service.
Conveyance structure
The mode of transportation you choose will determine the timing. More people use open trailer as it is inexpensive than enclosed transport services. If opting for an enclosed transport to protect your high-value vehicle, you may need to factor in additional time as the availability may be low.
Weather Contingency
Season may severely affect the shipping process. Delivery times may suffer from adverse weather like snow and storms. Similarly, the reliability of the transport may also suffer due to bad weather. When car shipping occurs in milder temperatures, the chances of delay due to weather is lowered.
Availability of Transport Companies
Due to lack of availability from car shipping companies, peak times are less favourable. When you schedule your car on time you can be sure of getting a slot with a carrier of your choice be it open or enclosed.
Import/export activities are restricted
If you are moving to a different country, your car will have to clear customs. Often there are delays clearing customs so it is best to get started in advance to allow processing time for these things.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping
In order to prepare your vehicle for transport, you will need to get your car ready. Use a checklist to prepare your car for shipment.
Clean your vehicle
Before your vehicle examination, having your vehicle cleaned will provide the transport company a clear idea regarding the vehicle condition. In turn, it helps to preclude any problems in case there is damage in transit.
Clear Personal Items
Before dropping the car off, move your stuff out of the car so that it doesn’t get misplaced or damaged. Personal belongings are generally not insured by car shipping companies.
Check the State of Your Car
Check and take a few shots for damages before the shipping. Having evidence will prevent any kind of disputes for the future in case of damage in transit.
Fluid volumn analysis
Check all fluids in your vehicle, see if they are at the right levels, and check for leaks. Some companies can require that the fuel level be as low as possible, but usually, it may not be less than a quarter tank.
Make Accessible
Make your car accessible and you may also want to give the transport company special instructions for the pick-up and delivery. When shipped by an enclosed carrier, make sure the vehicle is operable.
Final Statements
The best time to ship your car depends on how far you’re moving, when you’re moving, and the season. When shipping your car across a longer distance or even intercontinentally, you should look to book 3 weeks at the least. If arrangements are made earlier, there will be fewer delays associated with your vehicle shipment costing less. Your vehicle will get shipped safely. Picking a trustworthy auto transport company and preparing your car for shipping makes things a whole lot easier and smoother.
