Before you ship your vehicle for repairs in another state, find out exactly what you need to know when moving your car.
If your car runs or not, it’s still possible to have it shipped anywhere in the world. But you’ll encounter some specific details along the journey that will help you make the right decision.
With the power of knowledge, you can ship your vehicle for repair safely, and without any issue.
Below we’ll cover what to do and what not to do when moving your vehicle that needs repair.
Let’s get started.
What to Know When Moving a Car That’s in Need of Repair?
The main issue in transporting a car that needs repair if it runs or not. If it is capable of running, then it’s possible to load the vehicle onto the trailer by driving it. If not, then specialized equipment will be required to lift the vehicle on and off of the transportation carrier.
If your car doesn’t run, you’ll have to use a lift. The problem with lifts is that it costs more time because of the necessary equipment that’s required. If your car is being transported to do simple repairs but it still runs, then you won’t run into any issues.
You can always opt to go for enclosed transportation as well using a liftgate, which will run you a few hundred dollars more. The reason it costs a bit more is that there is less room on an enclosed trailer than on a typical open trailer you see along the highway.
If your vehicle is a typical sedan or midsize car, then you’ll be in better shape because you won’t run into any issues with the car being too tall. If the vehicle is a large SUV like a BMW xDrive, then you may have to resort to lifting the vehicle onto the bed of a big rig rather than using an open trailer altogether.
If your vehicle has engine problems, you must let the transportation service know. If your vehicle gets stuck and you didn’t let the company that’s handling your vehicle know, you’ll likely be fined a large amount because they are under strict time limits to deliver all the vehicles they have on the truck.
But before all of this is said and done, how do you choose the right type of transportation service? Below we’ll get into that.
How to Hire a Company to Ship Your Vehicle for Repair
Before you hire any random shipping company, it’s important to understand that not all vehicle transportation companies are created equal. That’s why companies such as A-1 Auto Transport have been in the business for over 20 years – because they do things right!
It’s important to verify if the transportation company you’re using is licensed and has insurance. Some companies operate as a sort of shell company, as a front only, and then they sell your lead to the highest bidder.
The problem with this scenario is that no one can be held accountable here. All transportation must be licensed by the DOT and carry insurance, which costs money to start (around 100k+ or more in fees). Some companies try to get around this and work under the radar, but in the end, the only person that gets hurt is the customer.
Always make sure that you agree on a quote beforehand and avoid any hidden fees. Many shipping companies will underquote you, then once the driver has arrived, he’ll inform you the price has risen – and you’re left cornered without much of a choice.
If you do your due diligence when picking a transportation company you should have no problem, but problems always arise. If you need your vehicle on a certain day, always, always contact the shipping company months before speaking over the details, otherwise, you’re going to have to spend a ton for expedited shipping.
Vehicles normally don’t arrive on a specific date, but a range of days is given. If you find yourself in need of your vehicle on a specific date, then opt to ship your vehicle before and have it kept in storage until you’re ready to pick it up.
Final Takeaways
Transporting a car in need of repair across state lines is no simple task. The condition of the vehicle, be it operational or not, significantly influences the logistics and costs of the move. While operational cars can be easily driven onto a trailer, non-operational ones require specialized equipment, incurring additional costs and time.
Vehicles with varying sizes and clearances also come with their set of considerations, emphasizing the need for detailed planning.
Choosing the right transportation company is pivotal. Legitimate businesses will be transparent about their licensing and insurance, ensuring protection for both the vehicle and its owner. It’s crucial to be wary of companies that operate in the gray area, lacking proper documentation and possibly leading to unanticipated costs or complications.
Preliminary research, timely communication, and being aware of potential pitfalls can help simplify what seems like a daunting process. Trustworthy companies, such as A-1 Auto Transport, provide reliable services, but due diligence remains the responsibility of the vehicle owner.
By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your vehicle reaches its destination safely and efficiently, ready for its necessary repairs.
Robert Anderson is a world class motorhead who rebuilt his first carb at age 10, his first engine at age 15, and completed his first full hotrod build when he was just 18! Previously, he has ran a part warehouse, delivered pizzas, and managed the service department for a $20 million/year revenue dealership. Robert knows cars like few others and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge.
