What is the cheapest way to ship a car?
First, you need to decide whether you want to drive or to ship the vehicle. Driving is a good option if the distance is not more than 200 miles. Of course, if you are up for a road trip you can drive across the country, but whether you will save money that is a different question.
Many people believe that they will save money by driving, but that is not always correct. You have to take into consideration all the expenses a road trip involves, including getting your car ready. Across the country road trip means you need to organize lodging, food and gas stops. Your car needs to be in a good driving condition as well, ready for a thousand miles trip. This means you need to check it with a mechanic, and probably at least change the oil.
Shipping the car is usually the most convenient option, and often cheaper than driving. Several factors affect the price to ship a vehicle. The car’s make and model, the distance and exact location, and the type of transport you choose will set the base price for shipping. Gas prices too contribute to shipping costs, but usually, a deciding factor is supply and demand on the actual route. Consequently, the cheapest way to move a vehicle will depend on your personal preference as well as a few other things.
Shipping a car the cheapest way possible
Prices in this industry depend on several factors, and when you know them you will decide what you are willing to sacrifice in order to get a cheaper rate. A very important aspect in the auto shipping pricing is supply and demand fluctuations.
This is usually the overlooked aspect that actually decides the final price to ship a vehicle. Demand changes daily on all routes and this affects the suppliers – in our case the car shipping carriers. When demand spikes prices go up and the same happens if and when there are supply shortages.
For those looking to ship their vehicle in a timely manner, paying the current market price is what will guarantee that. Keep in mind that we are saying, shipping in a timely manner, not guaranteed dates.
If you need expedited auto transport, with guaranteed pick-up and delivery dates, or pick-up and delivery by an exact date, this will cost a premium. As a rule of thumb, shipping dates and times are never guaranteed since things happen on the road. Logistics is an industry heavily affected by road and weather conditions, as well as customer delays.
For those looking to find the cheapest option to ship a car, we must point out two things. We always give our best to explain how auto transport works and help our customers find the best option. When it comes to pricing though many people expect unrealistic numbers. We would like to say that you must understand that shipping a car is not like shipping a package via USPS. Prices depend on several factors, besides supply and demand, and we will discuss them all below.
You have two options that will save you money:
- Request an open air car shipping carrier
- Be flexible with your shipping dates and ready to wait
When you request and book an open auto transport, you are basically opting for the most readily available type of carrier. About 80 percent of the whole fleet of the vehicle hauling trucks in the US consists of open carriers. This means that the supply of such service is always high.
The chance of getting a cancellation for such a carrier is also higher compared to enclosed. This means that when an open carrier’s customer cancels an order they have an open spot and they can agree to give a discount. An experienced broker and management company like Corsia Logistics will be able to negotiate the best price and discount on your behalf.
The second thing you can do to save money is to be flexible with your shipping dates. If you are willing to wait a little bit longer than what it would usually take to ship a car, then you can certainly get a discounted rate.
When you are not willing to pay the current market price, you must be willing to wait longer for a carrier to pick up your vehicle. Sometimes it may take a few days longer, other times a few weeks. It all depends on how much you want to save and how long you are willing to wait for your vehicle to be delivered.
Discuss your options, budget, and requirements with your logistics agent. Our managers are seniors in the industry with a decade of experience, and they will help you understand the process and choose the right option. Our agents know how to negotiate the most reasonable price, which will also be the most affordable to you and fair to the carrier.
Factors that will affect the cost to ship a car
Vehicle Make and Model
Smaller vehicles cost less to ship, they weigh less and don’t take up as much space. Therefore, don’t expect to transport an SUV for the same price as a VW Beetle.
Vehicle Condition
You will have to pay more to ship a non-operable car. This situation is quite self-explanatory – additional help is required to load a non-running car.
Carrier Type
Whether you choose open or enclosed carrier will affect the price. Enclosed carriers offer extra protection and hence they cost more. Open is just as safe, and brand new cars are usually transported via open carriers. However, If you are shipping a luxury or a classic car, it is advisable to choose enclosed.
Distance and Location
Distance always matters, but it is not the decisive factor when it comes to prices. Location is equally important. If you are looking to move your vehicle to or from a remote area expect to pay more.
Supply and Demand
Let’s say a snowbird season is approaching. This means truckers on certain routes will become quite busy moving vehicles. Higher demand means higher prices and customers will have to compete for a space on a car carrier. When the demand is high, you will have to pay a higher price to ship your car, unless you are flexible and willing to wait.
How do you know a car shipping price is fair?
First, ask a family member, a friend or a neighbor for recommendations. Browse online and read customer reviews to find reliable auto shippers. Then collect several car shipping quotes and, finally, compare prices and comapnies.
You will have no trouble getting free, no-obligation estimates to transport your vehicle from multiple companies. Comparing at least three rates and companies is the least you can do to get an idea of an average price.
Due to industry demand and supply fluctuations, the price is usually valid for one week at most. When an order is booked 30 or more days in advance companies should always inform customers about price changes.
This is how you will know when a car shipping price is fair. The cheapest rate is not usually fair and realistic. The cheapest way to ship a vehicle does not mean choosing the cheapest price that you receive. It could mean simply being flexible with your pick-up frame and wait for a carrier to agree to a lower price you are willing to pay.
Now that you know more about what is the cheapest way to ship a car and about the facotrs that affect prices you can quickly figure out how to save on vehicle transport. What you should never compromise is the quality of service. Speak with your potential car shipper, ask questions and resolve all your concerns. Do a little digging before you commit to a particular company. Let us know if you have any question! We are one click or call away! Thank you!
To ship your car with Corsia Logistics simply call us or request a quote online. We are a five star rated auto transport company because we provide quality service and personalized attention, and we are fair to our customer and our carriers. If you prefer the human touch, give us a call now. We are here to help you ship your car with peace of mind.
