Car shipping fees can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. With a bit of planning and flexibility, you can find affordable rates. Seasons play a huge role in pricing, with summer rates higher than fall and winter. It’s also important to ship during non-peak times. The drop-off/pickup method also affects pricing. Opting for terminal-to-terminal delivery will save you money compared to door-to-door service.
Be Flexible
Many factors impact the cost of Los Angeles car shipping, from vehicle preparation to timing and carrier types. Larger vehicles and cars with extra accessories or features are more expensive to ship. The pickup and drop-off location also impact pricing – remote areas are typically more expensive than those within 30 minutes of a major interstate or city. Being flexible with the exact pickup and drop-off dates can help reduce the overall cost. This gives auto transport companies more time to find a carrier and helps avoid extra scheduling fees from rushing a load through the system. If you have multiple cars to ship, having them all at a single location for the pickup will also save on costs. This is especially true if you choose terminal-to-terminal shipping instead of door-to-door service.
Look for Discounts
Car shipping companies are convenient, especially when moving across the country. They save you the cost of gas, food, and lodging, as well as future travel expenses. However, their services are costly. There are many ways to cut costs on car transportation, such as reserving your shipment early or choosing open transport rather than enclosed. It also helps to ship during non-peak times of the year, as this will decrease your transport rates. You can also save money by opting for terminal-to-terminal shipping instead of door-to-door. This will require a bit of extra driving, but it can save you hundreds of dollars on your transport costs. This is because it allows the carrier to haul more cars in one trip, which cuts down on overhead.
Ship During Non-Peak Times
In the car shipping industry, demand fluctuates. Prices are higher during peak times, like holidays and the summer travel season. You’ll get lower rates when you ship your car during non-peak times. Consider February, for example. The holiday rush is over, snowbirds have moved south, and fewer people buy cars online to have them shipped home. You can also save money by choosing open transport over enclosed. While less secure, you’ll pay significantly less for this option. If you can, drive your vehicle to the new location or ask a friend. This will save you money on gas and wear and tear. However, consider this option’s risks before committing to it.
Ship Multiple Cars at the Same Time
Car shipping companies are often more willing to ship several cars simultaneously, especially during non-peak times. It saves them time and money, which they can pass on to customers through discounts. This is an excellent option for families that want to ensure their vehicles are in the same condition when they arrive, as well as auto dealerships and rental agencies. Before signing with a car shipping company, compare rates from multiple brokers and review customer reviews. Once confident that you’ve found the best rates, submit your shipment information and verify pickup and drop-off locations. From there, you can select the carrier that best meets your needs.
Look for Reputable Companies
Choosing a car shipping company with industry accreditation, long-standing relationships with carriers, and many satisfied past customers can help keep costs low. Avoid settling for the lowest price, and look for a company that offers fair prices with transparent terms and conditions. Be prepared to meet the driver at your pickup and drop-off locations. This is how you will pay the remaining balance, inspect the vehicle for damages and sign a bill of lading.
Ensure your car is clean and empty before shipping, and remove any unique accessories. Also, leaving less than a gas tank can lower your shipping costs by lowering the weight load. Finally, choose terminal-to-terminal delivery whenever possible to save on the cost of transport.
