5 Car Shipping Myths Busted

You don’t usually think about car shipping unless you’re moving cross country or purchasing a vehicle from afar. Even then, you may feel reluctant to trust car transport companies because of the many rumors perpetuated online. The negative assumptions include how shipping companies charge sky-high prices and don’t have safe practices that could damage your vehicle.

Although many people may have seen auto transport trucks plying the highways, they can’t help but believe the misconceptions. Now is the time to debunk these false truths and regain your trust in the auto transport industry. Let’s clarify your preconceived notions about how vehicle shipping works. When you’re given fact versus fiction, you can make a more informed choice.

Myth 1: Driving Your Vehicle Is Fun and a Lot Easier Than Shipping

Most people assume that it is easier to drive your own car. They say it is fun because you’re going on a road trip and can see many tourist spots in one go. Moreover, many say this option is also safer because you’re the one sitting behind the wheels. Hence, you can ensure that your precious possession gets appropriately shipped from point A to B.

However, anyone who has done this drive can tell you nothing is further from the truth. It’s a different story when you’re moving long-distance. It’s not the same as having a leisurely vacation. You don’t move at a relaxed pace but feel pressured to traverse the miles to get settled ASAP.

Besides, it becomes even more complicated when you travel with children and fur babies. All these factors combined can affect the fun factor. You may feel tired and weary on the road, affecting everyone’s safety. Instead, working with a car shipping company works better because you take the stress out of the equation.

Myth 2: Doing It DIY Style Is More Affordable

Most people plunge into driving their vehicles cross country because they want to save on shipping fees. But here’s the truth: Working with a reliable shipping company could end up so much cheaper in the long run. Most importantly, you get value for money because you’re paying for convenience and saving time. And time equals money!

When you drive your car, you will have to spend on fuel costs. You must also pay for your meals, accommodations, and other incidentals. What’s even worse is you’re eating up mileage on your car, resulting in wear and tear. By the time you get to your destination, you may have expensive car repairs. Ouch!

But what makes working with a transport company genuinely worth it is the insurance coverage. You get peace of mind because if something happens to the shipment on the road, you know that your car is covered.

Myth 3: Only Vehicles That Run Can Be Shipped

Perhaps you’ve got a vintage vehicle sitting in your garage. Maybe you’re a collector who bought something from far away. Don’t fret because shipping your car is not a problem. A legitimate vehicle transport company possesses the skills and tools to send any type of vehicle, even those with mechanical issues.

As long as it can roll and steer, it’s not a problem, even if the engine doesn’t start. However, bear in mind that shipping an inoperable vehicle may come at a premium. After all, this particular service requires equipment and training to load, transport, and unload the car.

Myth 4: Price Is Only Dependent on the Distance

The distance your car needs to traverse plays a considerable role in the total costs, but it is not the only consideration. Keep in mind that the general rule of thumb is the longer the distance, the more you can bargain and lower the rate per mile. In addition, the shipping company also takes the following into account:

• Vehicle make
• Model
• Age
• Size

More importantly, your preferred delivery dates, time of the year, and location will also affect the quoted price. It will be more expensive if you need rush shipment in winter through less accessible rural areas. All of these contribute to a higher cost since shippers need to make additional and unique arrangements.

Myth 5: Always Choose the Cheapest Rate

Finally, the last myth is working with a company that gives you the lowest rates. Always remember that the cheapest option is not always the best choice. Be a savvy customer and do your research. Shop around for different quotes and read the fine print before deciding on a particular company.

Avoid bad apples in the shipping industry that promise a quick delivery at super bargain prices. If it is too good to be true, it most likely is. Watch out for hidden fees and unexpected charges that could be invoiced to you at the end of transport. When you’re shipping something as expensive as your car, you must work with a team you can trust.