So, you’re preparing for a cross-country move—exciting! There are many factors to consider, but let’s focus on one of the biggest challenges: moving your vehicle. You’re probably wondering if you should drive your car across the country or opt for a car shipping service. Learn why shipping might be the best route for you.
The Cross-Country Moving Conundrum
Moving cross-country is a grand adventure filled with the excitement of new beginnings and opportunities. But amidst the thrill, there’s a logistical puzzle: how to get your beloved vehicle from Point A to Point B.
You have two options: drive it yourself or hire a car shipping service. While driving could seem fun, it’s more important to preserve your car’s condition. A car’s value depreciates the more it’s driven, and driving across the country seems like a really large feat to take on.
The Time-Saving Phenomenon of Car Shipping
In our modern, time-crunched society, the saying “time is money” rings especially true. Consider the potential time investment of a cross-country drive:
- The hours spent behind the wheel each day,
- The breaks needed for meals, rest, and refueling,
- The necessity for overnight stops to sleep,
- The potential detours—both intentional (hello, world’s largest ball of twine!) and unintentional (uh-oh, roadwork ahead),
- The unforeseen delays due to traffic, accidents, or car trouble.
Every hour spent on the road is an hour not spent on other valuable tasks. Shipping your car allows you to reallocate this time to activities like:
- Getting a jumpstart on unpacking and arranging your new home,
- Exploring your new neighborhood and city,
- Preparing for your new job or school,
- Resting and recovering from the moving process.
Did you know? According to a study by the American Automobile Association, road trips often take 50% or more longer than expected due to various factors, including rest stops and traffic.
Preserving Your Car’s Health and Value
At first glance, a cross-country road trip might seem like a thrilling adventure. However, the potential toll on your vehicle can be substantial:
- The accelerated wear on your tires and brakes,
- The additional strain on your engine and other parts,
- The depreciation in your car’s value from the increased mileage,
- The increased risk of accidents, road damage, or breakdowns in unfamiliar areas.
On the flip side, shipping your car sidesteps these risks, ensuring your car is delivered to your new home in the same condition it left your old one. Did you know? Edmunds, a leading automotive guide, states that mileage is one of the most significant factors affecting a car’s resale value.
Stress-Reduction: A Side Effect of Car Shipping
Moving is often ranked as one of life’s most stressful events, right up there with job loss and divorce. Adding a cross-country drive to the mix—navigating highways, dealing with unpredictable weather, coping with varying road conditions, and maintaining your vehicle—could send your stress levels into overdrive.
But shipping your car? That shifts the burden from your shoulders to those of the professionals. Your role becomes refreshingly simple: hand over your keys and wait for your vehicle to arrive at your new home.
Safety First, Second, and Always
Safety is paramount, and long-distance driving presents a myriad of potential hazards. Fatigue, unfamiliar roads, adverse weather, and the risk of accidents are all real concerns.
In contrast, shipping your car places it in the hands of experienced professionals trained in the safe and efficient transport of vehicles. Plus, it frees you up to travel to your new home using quicker and safer modes of transport.
Services Offered by Car Shipping and Moving Companies
The most popular option offered by long-distance moving and car shipping services among customers is the open carrier service. As the name implies, your car is transported on an open trailer. This method is an economical choice and ensures that your vehicle is securely fastened and safely delivered to its new location.
However, it’s essential to note that because your car will be transported in the open air, it will be exposed to weather conditions such as sun, rain, snow, and other elements.
Enclosed Transport Service
If you’re a car owner seeking the highest level of protection for your vehicle during a cross-country move, enclosed transport service is the perfect choice. Your vehicle will be fully shielded from external conditions inside an enclosed trailer.
This type of trailer can accommodate up to four vehicles at once. While this service does come at a higher cost, it includes enhanced insurance coverage. Here’s why this extra investment is worthwhile:
- Damage prevention: Your vehicle will be protected from potential harm caused by road debris,
- Safe loading and unloading: Movers use a lift gate to ensure your vehicle is loaded and unloaded safely and securely.
Customized Pick-Up and Delivery Options
Our extensive experience in the car shipping industry has taught us that each customer has unique needs and preferences. That’s why most offer expert support to help you choose the best pick-up and delivery options.
Choose door-to-door pick-up service if you want to avoid waiting and have your vehicle delivered as swiftly as possible. With this option, movers pick up your car from your specified location and deliver it directly to your desired destination.
On the other hand, terminal-to-terminal delivery service is ideal for customers with flexible schedules. With this option, you can pick up your vehicle at your convenience from the nearest terminal. This service is also a great choice if you’re looking to save some money.
Why Car Shipping Could Be Your Best Move
Making a cross-country move is a significant endeavor. With a long to-do list and a new life chapter awaiting, it’s crucial to make decisions that will simplify the process, preserve your peace of mind, and save you time and potential headaches. Shipping your car, rather than driving it yourself, can tick all these boxes.
For a smooth and worry-free experience, consider entrusting your vehicle to a reputable long-distance moving and car shipping service. They’re equipped with the knowledge, tools, and experience to transport your car safely and efficiently to your new home, giving you one less thing to worry about during your move.
