How to Ship a Car When Moving to Another State: Top Tips

Moving to a new city can be an exciting and stressful time. There are plenty of things to consider, from packing up your belongings to finding a new place to live. One thing you don’t want to leave until the last minute, however, is figuring out how to safely ship a car when moving to a new home.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the things you need to know about car shipping and how to do it right.

How to Ship a Car: Tips to Make Your Move Easier

1. Research Your Options

When to ship a car when moving, you have a few options to consider. Some people choose to drive their car to their new home, while others opt for a more convenient and stress-free option like shipping it. The first step in shipping your car is to research your options and find a reputable car shipping company. Consider reaching out to your friends and family for recommendations or check online review sites to find a company with good ratings.

2. Get a Quote

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential companies to ship a car when moving, it’s time to get a quote. Many companies offer free quotes online or over the phone. Make sure to get a written quote that includes all the details of the shipping process, such as insurance coverage, pickup and delivery dates, and any additional fees or charges.

3. Prepare Your Car

Before your car is shipped, you must prepare it for transport. Start by thoroughly cleaning your car and removing any personal belongings from the interior. Make sure to check for any loose items that could shift during transport and cause damage to your car. You’ll also need to remove toll tags or parking passes and disable alarm systems.

4. Inspect Your Car

Before your car is loaded onto the shipping truck, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection. Take pictures of your car from all angles and make note of any existing damage. This will ensure that you have evidence of the car’s condition before you ship a car when moving, and it will allow you to make a claim if any damage occurs during transport.

5. Choose Your Shipping Method

When it comes to car shipping, there are two main methods to choose from: open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is the most common method and involves loading your car onto an open trailer with other cars. Enclosed transport is a more expensive option but offers more protection for your car since it’s loaded into a closed trailer.

6. Stay in Touch

Throughout the shipping process, it’s important to stay in touch with your car shipping company. Make sure to get a phone number or email address for the driver in case you need to reach them during transport. You’ll also want to confirm the pickup and delivery dates and any special instructions for preparing your car.

7. Receive Your Car

Once the shipping truck arrives at your new home, it’s time to receive your car. Make sure to inspect your car thoroughly for any damage or issues that may have occurred during transport. If you notice any damage, report it to the car shipping company immediately so you can file a claim.

Why Choose CitizenShipper for Car Shipping

At CitizenShipper, we understand the importance of choosing a reliable and reputable car shipping company. That’s why we strive to provide our customers with top-quality service and a stress-free car shipping experience. Here are just a few reasons why you should choose CitizenShipper for your car shipping needs:

– Affordable pricing: We offer competitive pricing and a price match guarantee to ensure our customers get the best value.
– Expert drivers: Our drivers are experienced and knowledgeable about car shipping and will handle your car with care.
– Excellent customer service: We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and support throughout shipping.
– Easy online booking: Our online booking system makes getting a quote and booking your car shipping service easy in just a few clicks.

Understanding Car Shipping Insurance

When shipping a car, it’s crucial to understand the insurance coverage the shipping company provides. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Carrier Liability Insurance: Most car shipping companies carry liability insurance, which covers damages caused by their negligence. However, it may not cover damages caused by unforeseen events like weather or theft.
2. Personal Auto Insurance: Your auto insurance policy may provide some coverage during transport, but verifying the extent of coverage with your insurance provider is essential.
3. Additional Insurance Coverage: If the carrier’s liability insurance or your personal auto insurance doesn’t provide sufficient coverage, consider purchasing additional insurance to cover any potential gaps.
4. Documentation: Obtain a copy of the shipping company’s insurance certificate and review it carefully. Ensure you understand the limits of their coverage, deductible amounts, and any exclusions.

Timing Your Car Shipment for a Smooth Move

To make your move as stress-free as possible, it’s essential to time your car shipment appropriately. Consider these tips:

1. Plan Ahead: Start researching car shipping companies and obtaining quotes at least a month before your move. This will give you ample time to compare options and book your preferred shipping date.
2. Avoid Peak Seasons: Car shipping demand and prices tend to increase during peak seasons like summer or around holidays. If possible, schedule your car shipment during off-peak times to save on costs.
3. Align Shipping with Your Move: Ideally, schedule your car shipment so it arrives at your new home shortly after you do. This way, you’ll have your vehicle available as soon as you need it.
4. Stay Flexible: If possible, have some flexibility in your car shipment dates. This can help you secure a better price and accommodate any unexpected delays in your move.

FAQS: Ship a Car When Moving

What Are the Main Methods of Car Shipping?

The two main methods of car shipping are open transport and enclosed transport. Open transport is more common and affordable, while enclosed transport offers greater protection.

How Do I Prepare My Car for Shipping?

Clean your car thoroughly, remove personal belongings, check for loose items, remove toll tags or parking passes, and disable any alarm systems.

Why Is It Important To Inspect My Car Before Shipping?

Inspecting and documenting your car’s condition before shipping provides evidence in case any damage occurs during transport, making it easier to file a claim.

What Should I Consider When Choosing a Car Shipping Company?

Look for a reputable company with good reviews, transparent pricing, experienced drivers, excellent customer service, and an easy online booking process.

Bottom Line

Shipping your car can be a simple and stress-free process when you choose the right car shipping company. By following these tips and choosing a reputable company like CitizenShipper, you can ensure your car arrives safely and on time at your new home. Happy moving!”