When it comes to your car, you may be wondering how much of an effect your vehicle’s value has on car shipping cost? Below is a comprehensive guide outlining not only how its value impacts cost but also various other factors that come into play as well as tips for using a calculator and ways to save money when transporting your car.

Value and Car Shipping Cost

It is important to consider your car’s worth when determining shipping costs due to it impacting how much protection is necessary throughout transit. Vehicles that are considered luxurious, rare, or vintage require extra steps to ensure their safety, therefore making these shipments costlier than standard transports. For instance, some owners of high-value cars may pay for enclosed shipping instead of open carrier services, leading them to incur a higher fee.

A Car Transporter Choice: Whether To Ship A Regular Sedan or Luxury Car?

Let us suppose you are an auto transport service and have one spot available on your ten car hauler. Nearby there is a regular sedan, a Honda Accord, and the carrier fee is $1,000. Also nearby is a luxury sedan, a Maserati Ghibli, and the carrier fee is the same. Which would you choose to haul? If something were to go wrong, the Honda Accord would be cheaper to repair or replace. So you would probably choose that.

However, at a certain price point, maybe $100 to $500 more, choosing the Maserati Ghibli becomes the better option. It is rare for vehicle damages, and the risk/reward shifts toward the luxury vehicle the higher the carrier fee. And that is how the value of your vehicle may affect the car shipping cost.

Even though the worth of your automobile can affect the cost of transporting it, there are several other considerations that come into play. Here’s a look at some of these factors.

Distance and Location

The cost to transport a car is greatly impacted by two things – how far away it needs to go and where the vehicle is coming from, or its location. The longer the journey for your car, the higher the price tag will be. This is because of all of the miles traveled and how much gas was used in order to get your car safely delivered.

The cost of car shipping is also affected by geography. In general, transporting a vehicle between large cities tends to be less expensive as carriers have ample access to them. However, accessing remote locations or those far from main highways can prove difficult and pricier for transport companies.

Time of Year

It is important to consider when you plan on sending your car, as certain times of year can have an effect on costs. In fact, within car shipping there are periods of high and low demand which fluctuate. To give an example:

The cost of car shipping services can vary based on seasonal demand. Moreover, the changing weather conditions can also have a huge impact on auto transport costs and safety. Unfavorable weather such as inclement or stormy conditions can make driving harder for carriers, leading to an increase in shipping expenses.

Delivery Time Frame Flexibility

When trying to reduce the cost of car transport, it is beneficial to think flexibly about deadlines. Many car shipping businesses provide various avenues for delivering autos that can impose different rates. For example, opting for a guaranteed time frame or express delivery may be pricier than taking the standard route.

When it comes time for you ship your car, the earlier you book your car shipping service – ideally two weeks in advance – the more likely you are receive the best possible rate. However, should you find yourself needing the vehicle relocated on short notice, fewer companies may be able of accommodate that request, meaning higher prices could be charged.

Shipping Options

When it comes to transporting your car, it is important to consider various shipping options as this can impact on car shipping cost. Generally speaking, two primary options exist:

Open Car Shipping

Transporting a car can be made simple with the help of an affordable and common option – that is, the use of an “openship.” This method places the vehicle on an exposed trailer with other vehicles, leaving it vulnerable to road hazards as well as any inclement weather. This technique usually brings no harm; though, for those posessing cars of high value, this solution may not be the best choice due to its lack of sufficient protection.

Enclosed Car Shipping

For those seeking maximum protection for their car, consider an option of fully-enclosed car shipping. Exotic, antique, custom, sports, luxury and high value vehicles particularly benefit from this method of transportation as it shields the vehicle from dirt, dust and other weather elements. Although this service comes with a higher price tag than open car shipping, many agree that the added security it provides is worth the cost.

Vehicle Weight and Dimensions

Your car’s size and weight are two of many factors that can influence how much it costs to ship. Due to a larger vehicle like a truck or SUV needing extra effort, space, and safety for transport, this can create an additional expense. Furthermore, any changes you have made to your car in terms of its dimensions or mass will also have an effect on what you ultimately pay.

It is important to take your car’s condition into account when determining how much it will cost to ship it. A car that is not in good working order may require specialized tools and handling, which can add significantly to transportation expenses.

Special Requirements

The cost of car shipping may be affected by particular needs or inclinations. For instance, packing personal objects in the trunk of the vehicle or requesting that it be loaded at the top of the trailer can incur extra charges.

Discounts and Additional Services

When shipping your car, there are several ways to save money. A number of auto transport companies offer discounts or additional services that can help lower the cost. Here are some of the more typical discounts available:

When it comes to your shipping needs, you should always check for any discounts or additional services that might be available. Companies may offer door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping options which can impact the overall cost. Make sure to inquire about these options and any other potential savings opportunities.

How to Use a Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Gathering a variety of quotes from car shipping firms is essential to select the best option for you. An online quotation calculator can be used to compare prices and services, but it will usually require specific details from you beforehand. These are typically:

In order to accurately assess the cost of car shipping, make sure you input all essential details into a quote calculator. Doing so will offer up an estimated price for your shipment; however, be sure to get multiple quotes from various companies to ensure you’re receiving the best value and service possible.

Tips to Save on Car Shipping Cost

Searching for ways of getting your car shipped without breaking the bank?

Before committing to car shipping, there are important elements to consider to ensure you choose the most suitable and cost-effective service for your situation. Taking into account various tips and advice can help you make an informed decision when searching for an auto transport company. Comparison shopping for quotes is key as well as evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of different shipping options. Additionally, it pays off in terms of price to be flexible with your delivery dates.

Direct Express Auto Transport Unique Tier Quotes

When choosing an auto transport company, comparing quotes from different companies is essential. That will help you understand how much you can expect to pay for transportation and what services are included in the price. Direct Express Auto Transport uniquely offers three levels, or tiers, of pricing and service.

Standard Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within several days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. It is the most basic market rate; we suggest using it if you are not in a hurry. 

Expedited Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within a few days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. We highly recommend using the expedited rate as our customers report high satisfaction with it.

Rush Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within one or two days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. It is ideal for last-minute orders or for people who are in a huge hurry. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, and reliable auto transport cost calculator available anywhere online. We are the experts in vehicle shipping cost calculations anywhere in the USA.