If you’re fortunate enough to own a car you’re well aware of its value and sentimental worth. Whether you painstakingly restored it or inherited it from a loved one or collector preserving its condition and shielding it from harm is of importance.
However there may come a time when you need to transport your car to another destination—be it, for showcasing at an event, selling purposes or even relocating altogether. In instances finding a trustworthy and dependable classic car shipping company becomes paramount.. How exactly do you go about selecting the transporter for your prized possession?. What is the approximate cost associated with shipping a car?
In this piece we aim to address these queries while also offering insights on how to identify tier classic car shipping companies, within the industry.
Why You Need A Specialized Classic Car Shipping Company
You might think that shipping a classic car is the same as shipping any other car, but that’s not true. Classic cars have unique characteristics and requirements that make them different from regular cars. For example:
- Classic cars are often more fragile and delicate than modern cars. They may have parts that are rare, expensive, or hard to replace. They may also have special paint jobs, chrome details, or leather interiors that need extra care and attention.
- Classic cars are often more valuable than regular cars. They may have historical, sentimental, or emotional value that goes beyond their market price. They may also be considered as investments or collectibles that appreciate over time.
- Classic cars are often more attractive to thieves and vandals than regular cars. They may draw unwanted attention or curiosity from people who may want to steal them or damage them.
These factors make classic cars more vulnerable and risky to ship than regular cars. That’s why you need a specialized classic car shipping company that has the experience, expertise, and equipment to handle your vehicle with the utmost care and respect.
How To Choose A Reliable Classic Car Shipping Company
There are many classic car shipping companies in the market, but not all of them are trustworthy and reputable. Some of them may offer low prices but compromise on quality and safety. Some of them may have hidden fees or charges that can inflate your final bill. Some of them may have poor customer service or communication skills that can cause frustration and confusion.
To avoid these problems, you need to do some research and comparison before hiring a classic car shipping company. Here are some factors you should consider when choosing a reliable classic car shipping company:
Reputation
Check the online reviews and ratings of the company on sites like Yelp, Transport Reviews, Better Business Bureau, etc. Look for positive feedback from previous customers who have shipped their classic cars with the company. Avoid companies that have too many complaints or unresolved issues.
Experience
Search for companies that have been operating in the industry for a minimum of 10 years and have successfully transported vintage vehicles both domestically and internationally. Focus on companies that have expertise in handling car shipments and possess a track record of happy clients who can attest to their reliable service.
Insurance
Ensure that the company has insurance coverage for your vintage vehicle in the event of any damage or loss while it is being transported. Request evidence of insurance. Carefully review the policy to comprehend what is included and excluded. Seek out companies that provide insurance choices or benefits such as financial assistance, towards your deductible or extra coverage.
Transport method
Choose a company that offers enclosed transport for your classic car, which is the safest and most secure way to ship your vehicle. Enclosed transport protects your classic car from weather elements, road debris, dust, dirt, etc. It also provides more privacy and security for your vehicle. Avoid companies that offer only open transport, which exposes your classic car to potential risks and hazards.
Delivery option
I recommend selecting a company that provides door to door delivery services for your car. This option is the convenient and stress free way to transport your vehicle. With door to door delivery the company will collect your car from the location you specify and transport it directly to your desired destination. It’s best to avoid companies that offer terminal, to terminal delivery as this requires you to personally drop off and pick up your classic car from specific terminals or depots.
Price
Compare the quotes from different companies and look for the best value for your money. Don’t just go for the cheapest option, as it may compromise on quality and safety. Don’t just go for the most expensive option, as it may not guarantee the best service. Look for a reasonable and fair price that matches your budget and expectations.
Guarantee
Look for companies that offer guaranteed quotes, which means they will honor the price they quoted you and not charge you more later. Some companies may offer low quotes to lure you in, but then raise the price later due to market fluctuations, fuel surcharges, or other reasons. Avoid companies that offer only estimates, which are subject to change and may surprise you with extra fees or charges.
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Classic Car?
The cost to ship a classic car depends on several factors, such as:
- Distance: The farther you need to ship your classic car, the more it will cost. The cost per mile usually decreases as the distance increases, but the overall cost will still be higher for longer trips.
- Size and weight: The bigger and heavier your classic car is, the more it will cost to ship. Larger and heavier vehicles take up more space and require more fuel and labor to transport.
- Condition: The condition of your classic car affects the cost of shipping. If your classic car is inoperable or has special needs, it will cost more to ship. You may need to pay extra for loading and unloading services, or for using a winch or a lift gate.
- Season: The season of the year affects the cost of shipping. The demand for classic car shipping is usually higher in the summer and lower in the winter, which affects the availability and price of transporters. You may pay more during peak seasons and less during off seasons.
- Location: The location of your pickup and delivery points affects the cost of shipping. If your locations are in major cities or metropolitan areas, it will cost less to ship. If your locations are in rural areas or remote locations, it will cost more to ship. You may also pay more for tolls, permits, or taxes depending on your locations.
The average cost to ship a classic car using an enclosed carrier is about $1,500, but it can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. To get a more accurate estimate, you can use online calculators or request free quotes from different companies.
Conclusion
Shipping a classic car is not a simple task that can be done by anyone. It requires a specialized classic car shipping company that can handle your vehicle with care and professionalism. To find a reliable classic car shipping company, you need to do some research and comparison based on reputation, experience, insurance, transport method, delivery option, price, and guarantee.
